Dubai from Burj Khalifa’s new 148th floor viewing deck - in pictures

The Burj Khalifa has claimed the record for the world’s highest observation deck with the unveiling of a new viewing level on the 148th floor.

At a staggering 555.7 metres, it breaks the previous record held by Canton Tower, in Guangzhou, China, at 488 metres.

A third viewing deck on the 125th floor was also announced, allowing people who choose to go to the 148th floor to have a second stop overlooking the public viewing deck on the 124th floor on the return journey.

The view at 125th floor.

The new attraction will be opened to the public on Wednesday.

People who buy tickets to the new the 148th floor can relax in an exclusive lounge as they wait for the lift.

There is also an outdoor viewing deck and an interactive large screen that takes viewers on a computer-generated trip down the Burj and around Dubai.

The ride up features a projected video inside that marks the heights of various world-famous buildings as it surpasses them on the journey up

“At the Top is today one of the world’s most compelling tourist attractions,” said Ahmad Al Falasi, executive director of property management at Emaar Properties, at a launch event on Tuesday.

Looking down at the viewing deck at 124th floor in Burj Khalifa. “With the introduction of Sky, we are scaling up the entire journey to Burj Khalifa by offering a truly premium experience that will be a lifetime’s memory for every visitor, said Ahmad Al Falasi.

“We are doubly delighted to clinch the Guinness World Records title that adds to the glory of Burj Khalifa and enhances our reputation.”

The Burj Khalifa has reclaimed the record for the world’s highest observation deck with the unveiling of a new viewing level on the 148th floor. Here’s a look at Dubai from a new dizzying height. All photos by Jeffrey E Biteng / The National