The goal of Burj Dubai is not simply to be the world’s highest building. It’s to embody the world’s highest aspirations. Burj Dubai looks different depending on where you„re standing. For those living nearby, it is a shining accomplishment – tangible proof of Dubai’s central role in a growing world. For those standing in other global capitals, it is a shining symbol – an icon of the new Middle East: prosperous, dynamic, and successful. In fact, Burj Dubai is both. It is a fact – an unprecedented example of international cooperation – and a symbol – a beacon of progress for the entire world. It is not by chance that it is being built in Dubai. In less than thirty years, this city has transformed itself from a regional center to a global one. This success was not based on oil reserves, but on reserves of human talent, ingenuity and initiative. A vision this bold requires visionaries. Creating the centerpiece for a new world capital attracted the world’s most esteemed designers, developers and builders. One of them is the tower’s architect, Adrian Smith. As a consulting design partner at Skidmore, Owings and Merrill – the global leader in creating supertall structures – Adrian Smith has had a hand in several of the world’s tallest buildings. With Burj Dubai, he – and the world – will surpass them all.