Dubai is no stranger to tall buildings or sky-high observation decks, but The View at The Palm Tower promises a completely new way to experience Palm Jumeirah, the vast man-made island that juts out into the waters of the Arabian Gulf.
Designed by multi-national architectural firm Gensler, the 52nd floor observation deck marks the crown of The Palm Tower, offering visitors unbelievable 360-degree views of Palm Jumeirah and the Dubai skyline. A 120-sqm VIP lounge, which has its own outdoor terrace, can be privately booked for celebrations or corporate events, and since The View is open until 11pm weekdays and midnight from Thursday to Saturday, visitors will be able to enjoy the spectacular scenery day and night. One floor down, Level 51 will soon be home to the first Middle East outpost of SushiSamba, the Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian restaurant with branches in London, Amsterdam and Las Vegas.
The 240-metre-high observation deck is accessed through neighbouring Nakheel Mall, the retail and entertainment complex that anchors the trunk of the Palm to the fronds that splay out from its centre. Level two is home to The View Exhibition, which charts the history and growth of Palm Jumeirah from its conception 20 years ago to its (almost) completion today, as well as interactive aquarium tunnels and a gift shop. Tickets start from AED 100 (approx. US $27) for adults and AED 69 ($18.80) for kids.