The Burj Khalifa, located in Dubai, is one of the world’s tallest buildings and a major tourist attraction for those who visit the city. It stands at 828 meters (2,717 feet) tall and is a stunning sight to behold in its own right. But for some, the Burj Khalifa is more than just a marvel of modern engineering — it is a challenge. For these adventurers, the question is not simply who climbed Burj Khalifa, but how did they do it?
The first person to climb the Burj Khalifa was Alain Robert, a French urban climber and adventurer. In April 2011, Robert scaled the outside of the building using only his bare hands and a pair of climbing shoes. The climb took Robert nearly six hours to complete, and the feat was captured by the media around the world.
The second person to climb the Burj Khalifa was Fred Fugen and Vince Reffet, two members of the French “Soul Flyers” aerial sports team. The duo completed the climb in less than two hours, and their accomplishment was filmed for a documentary. After reaching the summit, Fugen and Reffet jumped off the building and parachuted to the ground.
In November 2012, world-renowned climber, daredevil, and BASE jumper Jeb Corliss completed a successful climb of the Burj Khalifa. Corliss was the first person to climb the building while wearing a wingsuit, and he completed the ascent in a little over an hour. The feat was captured by professional photographers and videographers, and Corliss even released a documentary about his climb.
Since then, numerous other climbers have attempted and succeeded in scaling the Burj Khalifa. In 2013, climber Dario Zanon attempted the climb and was successful in reaching the top in just under two hours. The record for the fastest climb still stands with Jeb Corliss, however, who completed the climb in a little more than an hour.
Why Do People Climb the Burj Khalifa?
The primary motivation for people climbing the Burj Khalifa is usually to test their own limits and prove their strength and endurance. Climbing any structure as tall as the Burj Khalifa is a difficult feat, and many climbers attempt the task to challenge themselves and push their own boundaries. Additionally, some climbers attempt the task for the notoriety and fame that comes with successfully completing the climb.
Climbing the Burj Khalifa is also a way for climbers to raise awareness for important causes. For example, Jeb Corliss dedicated his climb to supporting autism awareness and research, and he released a documentary about his climb with proceeds going to the cause. Similarly, Dario Zanon dedicated his climb to raising awareness for Parkinson’s disease.
Is Climbing the Burj Khalifa Legal?
Climbing the Burj Khalifa is not legal, and those who do so are subject to arrest and fines. The Dubai Municipality has stated that climbing the Burj Khalifa is strictly prohibited and those who are caught could face legal consequences. Additionally, climbers must obtain permission from the building’s management prior to attempting the climb, as well as written permission from the Dubai Police.
How Do Climbers Prepare for the Climb?
Climbing the Burj Khalifa is a difficult and dangerous undertaking, and those who attempt it must be properly prepared. Climbers must be in excellent physical condition and have extensive experience with climbing and rappelling. Additionally, climbers must have access to the necessary equipment, such as climbing shoes, harnesses, ropes, and other safety gear.
Climbers should also be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding climbing the Burj Khalifa. Dubai has strict rules regarding climbing the building, and climbers must obtain written permission from the Dubai police prior to attempting the climb. Additionally, climbers should be aware of the weather conditions before attempting the climb.