The Ultimate Guide To Afternoon Tea At Burj Al Arab Dubai (2025 Prices & Hidden Secrets)
The Afternoon Tea experience at the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is arguably the most coveted and exclusive dining reservation in Dubai, offering a rare glimpse inside the world’s only self-proclaimed seven-star hotel without requiring an overnight stay. As of December 25, 2025, securing a table for this luxurious ritual remains a bucket-list item for global travelers, but the cost, location, and experience vary dramatically depending on where you choose to sip your fine teas and nibble your gold-flaked pastries—the panoramic Skyview Bar or the opulent Sahn Eddar lobby lounge. This guide breaks down the latest 2025 pricing, seating times, and essential booking tips to ensure your visit to the 'Tower of the Arabs' is flawless.
The sheer opulence of the Burj Al Arab, designed by architect Tom Wright to resemble the sail of a dhow, sets the stage for a truly unforgettable afternoon ritual. From the moment you cross the 280-meter bridge to the artificial island, you are immersed in a world where 24-karat gold leaf covers over 1,790 square meters of the interior, creating an unparalleled atmosphere of Arabian luxury. The choice between the two distinct venues—the high-altitude views of the Skyview Bar or the architectural wonder of the Sahn Eddar atrium—is the first critical decision you must make.
Sky Tea vs. Sahn Eddar: A 2025 Price and Experience Comparison
The Burj Al Arab offers its famous multi-course tea experience in two stunning, yet vastly different, locations. Understanding the distinction between the "Sky Tea" at the top and the "Afternoon Tea" at the base is key to maximizing your opulent experience.
Skyview Bar: The Iconic High-Altitude Experience
Located on the 27th floor, the Skyview Bar is the most popular and expensive option, primarily due to its breathtaking panoramic views. Perched 200 meters above the Arabian Gulf, the venue provides sweeping vistas of the Jumeirah coastline, the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, and the expansive Dubai skyline. This location is synonymous with the ultimate luxury travel photo opportunity.
- Location: 27th Floor, offering 360-degree panoramic views.
- 2025 Price Range (Afternoon Tea/Sky Tea): Prices start at approximately AED 490 per person for the non-alcoholic package, moving up to AED 590–625 per person for packages that include signature alcoholic creations or a glass of premium Champagne. Note that a 7% municipality fee and other charges are typically added to the final bill.
- Timing: Afternoon Tea seatings are typically offered from Sunday to Thursday, with popular times at 1:00 PM, 1:15 PM, 4:00 PM, and 4:15 PM.
- The Menu Difference: Guests often receive a complimentary glass of Champagne upon arrival. The seven-course menu is expansive and often includes an extra 'Chilled Fantasies' course not always available at the lower-level venue.
Sahn Eddar: The Architectural Masterpiece
Sahn Eddar, which translates to "The Reception," is situated on the first floor at the base of the hotel's staggering 180-meter-high atrium—the world’s tallest. While it lacks the high-rise view of the Skyview Bar, it offers an immersive experience within the architectural heart of the Burj Al Arab, surrounded by stunning water features, intricate mosaics, and the sheer scale of the gold-plated interior.
- Location: Lobby Lounge (First Floor), beneath the 180-meter Atrium.
- 2025 Price Range (Afternoon Tea): The price is generally slightly more accessible than the Skyview Bar, with packages ranging from approximately AED 635–700 per person, often including a glass of Champagne.
- Timing: This venue is sometimes referred to as offering a "High Tea" experience in the evening, but also hosts a luxurious Afternoon Tea during the day. Check the official Jumeirah website for the most current daily seating times.
- The Atmosphere: The experience here is more intimate and focused on the lavish interior design and the ambient sound of classical music from the live musicians.
Essential Menu Highlights and The Seven-Course Ritual
Regardless of whether you choose the Skyview Bar or Sahn Eddar, the Afternoon Tea at the Burj Al Arab is a sophisticated, multi-course affair designed to be a complete gourmet meal, not just a light snack. It is a traditional English tea ritual elevated with a distinct Dubai luxury twist.
The experience typically involves seven distinct courses, served over a leisurely two-hour period.
- The Savory Selection: The first tiers of the stand are dedicated to savory delights. Expect an assortment of delicate finger sandwiches with premium fillings, such as smoked salmon and cream cheese, cucumber, and various gourmet savory pastries. A Chef's Carvery item is also often featured.
- The Sweet Indulgences: The sweet courses are where the chefs truly showcase their artistry. This includes a variety of delicate desserts, berries tarts, and a refreshing sorbet course to cleanse the palate. The presentation is always immaculate, often featuring gold-dusted elements.
- Scones and Cream: The centerpiece of any traditional tea, the Burj Al Arab serves freshly-baked scones, both plain and raisin, accompanied by rich Devonshire clotted cream and homemade fruit preserves.
- The Tea Selection: Guests are offered a wide selection of fine teas and coffees. The tea menu features rare and exotic blends from around the world, ensuring a perfect pairing for the extensive food offering. Non-alcoholic creations are also a highlight for those opting out of Champagne.
The sheer volume and quality of the food mean that guests often leave feeling fully satisfied, making the high price tag feel more justifiable as a comprehensive luxury dining experience.
The Critical Burj Al Arab Dress Code and Booking Tips
A visit to the Burj Al Arab is a high-profile event, and adhering to the strict dress code is non-negotiable for entry. The hotel maintains a "Smart Casual" policy across its dining venues, including the Skyview Bar and Sahn Eddar, to uphold its reputation as a premier luxury destination.
The Mandatory Smart Casual Dress Code
Failure to meet the dress code will result in denied entry, even with a confirmed reservation. The key is to dress elegantly and avoid overly casual attire.
- For Men: A collared shirt (polo or button-down) is mandatory. Long trousers are required, though smart jeans are generally acceptable. Avoid shorts, t-shirts, sportswear, sneakers, or open shoes like flip-flops.
- For Women: A dress, skirt, tailored trousers, or smart jeans paired with a blouse is appropriate. Elegant footwear is recommended. Avoid beachwear, flip-flops, and overly revealing clothing.
- Children: Children must also adhere to a smart dress code. Note that the Skyview Bar has an age policy, sometimes restricting entry to those 8 years and above during afternoon tea times.
Essential Reservation and Booking Tips for 2025
Due to the limited seating and immense global demand, securing a reservation for Afternoon Tea at the Burj Al Arab requires planning, especially if you are aiming for a prime seating time or a table by the window at the Skyview Bar.
Book Far in Advance: Reservations should be made at least 4-6 weeks in advance, especially during peak Dubai travel season (October to April). You can contact the Jumeirah hotel's reservations team via phone or email (BAArestaurants@jumeirah.com).
Pre-Payment is Required: All Afternoon Tea bookings require a credit card guarantee or full pre-payment at the time of reservation. This policy is standard for high-demand, exclusive dining experiences in the Jumeirah neighborhood.
Consider the Tour Package: For those who want more than just the tea, consider the "Inside Burj Al Arab Tour" which often includes the Afternoon Tea experience. This package provides a guided journey through the hotel’s opulent Royal Suite and other hidden gems before your dining reservation, offering a complete architectural and luxury immersion.
Check for Minimum Spend: If you are simply looking to enter the hotel without the full seven-course ritual, some venues within the Burj Al Arab may offer an à la carte option with a minimum spend, although this is less common for the Afternoon Tea venues. The full set menu is the definitive experience.
Whether you choose the breathtaking panoramic views from the 27th floor or the awe-inspiring spectacle of the world's tallest atrium, the Afternoon Tea at the Burj Al Arab is more than just a meal; it is a definitive luxury Dubai experience and a true highlight of any international travel itinerary.
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