Burj Dubai World’s tallest building

The world’s tallest building, the Burj Dubai, is set to open on Jan. 4, 2010 despite the financial crisis its home-city is currently facing.

The Burj Dubai was topped out early in 2009 at a record-breaking 2,684 ft. The building broke eight world records; it is currently the tallest freestanding structure in the world, the building with the most floors and, once completed, will feature the highest elevator installation in the world. During its construction, its final height was increased multiple times. Originally, the tower was planned to stand only 1,837 ft. The exterior of the building was completed early last month and work has now shifted to the interior of the building in order to prepare it for when its first occupants move in early next year.

The tower is located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Dubai has recently experienced an economic downturn as the construction boom that has driven its economy for many years halts. Dubai recently announced that it was unable to pay interest on its $59 billion debt. Despite the economic crisis currently facing Dubai, the Burj Dubai is still planned to open as scheduled