Is the Burj Khalifa smaller than the twin towers?

Burj Khalifa and Twin Towers

The Burj Khalifa in Dubai and the Twin Towers in New York are two of the world’s most iconic skyscrapers. The Twin Towers were once the tallest buildings in the world until they were tragically destroyed in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. Meanwhile, the Burj Khalifa, completed in 2010, currently holds the title of the world’s tallest building.

The Height of Burj Khalifa and Twin Towers

The Burj Khalifa stands at a height of 828 meters (2,716.5 feet), making it the tallest building in the world. In comparison, the Twin Towers were 417 meters (1,368 feet) tall before their destruction. When they were completed in 1973, they were the tallest buildings in the world, only to be surpassed by the Sears Tower (now Willis Tower) in Chicago in 1974.

The Construction of Burj Khalifa and Twin Towers

The construction of the Twin Towers began in 1966 and was completed in 1973. The towers were designed by architect Minoru Yamasaki and were built using a steel frame with a concrete core. On the other hand, the Burj Khalifa’s construction began in 2004 and was completed in 2010. The tower was designed by Adrian Smith of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and was built using a reinforced concrete structure with a steel frame.

Comparison of Burj Khalifa and Twin Towers Design

The Twin Towers’ design was heavily influenced by Islamic architecture, with the exterior featuring steel and aluminum panels and a vertical pattern resembling Islamic art. In contrast, the Burj Khalifa features a sleek, modern design with a spiraling pattern and a combination of glass, steel, and concrete.

The Purpose of the Twin Towers and Burj Khalifa

The Twin Towers were built as part of the World Trade Center complex, serving as office buildings for businesses in various industries. Meanwhile, the Burj Khalifa is a mixed-use development that includes residential, commercial, and hotel space.

The Location of Burj Khalifa and Twin Towers

The Twin Towers were located in Lower Manhattan in New York City and were a prominent feature of the city’s skyline. The Burj Khalifa is located in Downtown Dubai and is the centerpiece of a development that includes the Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain.

The Cost of Building Burj Khalifa and Twin Towers

The cost of building the Twin Towers was around $900 million at the time of construction. In comparison, the Burj Khalifa cost around $1.5 billion to build.

The Attractions of Burj Khalifa and Twin Towers

The Twin Towers were a popular tourist destination, with visitors able to visit the observation deck on the 107th floor of the South Tower. The Burj Khalifa also has an observation deck, known as At the Top, located on the 124th floor.

The Security Measures of Burj Khalifa and Twin Towers

The Twin Towers had a security system in place, but it was not sufficient to prevent the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. The Burj Khalifa has a comprehensive security system, with security personnel and surveillance systems in place throughout the building.

The Legacy of Twin Towers and Burj Khalifa

The Twin Towers are remembered for the tragic events of September 11, 2001, and their subsequent destruction. The Burj Khalifa, on the other hand, has become a symbol of modern architecture and engineering.

Conclusion: Burj Khalifa vs Twin Towers

While the Burj Khalifa is taller than the Twin Towers, both buildings have left a significant mark on the history of architecture and engineering. The Twin Towers will always be remembered for their tragic destruction, while the Burj Khalifa represents the pinnacle of modern skyscraper design. Despite their differences, both buildings have become iconic symbols of their respective cities.

References: Burj Khalifa and Twin Towers

Burj Khalifa. (2021). In Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/topic/Burj-Khalifa
The World Trade Center. (n.d.). The Skyscraper Center. Retrieved from https://www.skyscrapercenter.com/new-york-city/world-trade-center/175/