The Burj Khalifa – Extracts From This Chapter
While writing this book I discovered that At the Top SKY has lost its title as the world’s highest outdoor observation deck. As of 5 January 2026, the Clock Tower in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, now holds that record at a height of 560.875 metres.
The Burj Khalifa, however, retains another distinction: the world’s highest lounge, located at 584.5 metres. The Lounge spans levels 152, 153, and 154. An outdoor balcony forms part of the 152nd floor and is protected only by a chest-high glass barrier.
Security Observations
Following Laura’s death, I raised concerns about security on the deck, and again after my visit to Dubai. Since then, it appears that further changes have been made.
Yet just four levels above the At the Top SKY deck, there remains an outdoor balcony protected only by a chest-high glass barrier, lower than those on the 124th and 125th floor, where barriers extend well above head height.