Burj Dubai opening day downplayed

The developer of the world's tallest building, the Burj Dubai, would not confirm reports yesterday that its opening would coincide with this year's National Day. Arabian Business, citing an anonymous senior architect, reported that the tower's public unveiling would be on Dec 2. But in a brief statement, Emaar Properties would only reiterate that "Burj Dubai will open this year as scheduled".

A spokeswoman for the Dubai-based company acknowledged the report, but would not say whether it was correct. According to Arabian Business, the Armani Hotel, designed by Giorgio Armani and housed within the Burj Dubai, will begin accommodating guests on National Day. In the report, the architect said, "This will be a huge achievement and a big celebration for the UAE and for Emaar, particularly as it's UAE National Day."

Greg Sang, Emaar's assistant director of projects, also brushed off the reports. Mr Sang, who is overseeing the development, said he did not know when the opening would be. The skyscraper was slated to be completed last year, but it was delayed multiple times while the glass façade was being finished. On Tuesday, Emaar said the final piece of glass cladding - panel number 24348 - was finally ready for installation to complete the building's exterior.

The last panel measured six metres and would be installed "in the coming weeks," Emaar said. mkwong@thenational.ae