Dubai’s Iconic Burj Al Arab Closes for Restoration: When Will It Reopen?

Last updated: May 13, 2026

Dubai’s iconic Burj Al Arab has temporarily closed for an 18-month restoration, its operator Jumeirah confirmed on 15 April 2026.

The 27-year-old landmark has never undergone a full restoration since it first opened in December 1999.

What’s Changing and What’s Staying

French interior architect Tristan Auer, known for restoring the Hôtel de Crillon in Paris, is leading the project.

The restoration is designed to refresh the interiors without altering the hotel’s identity.

According to The National, the famous entry aquarium and colourful lobby will remain intact.

The spa, however, will undergo a significant redesign to improve its layout and flow.

Sustainability is a key part of the plan. Jumeirah says 70 to 80 per cent of the existing décor will be retained and restored by artisans rather than replaced, minimising waste and honouring the original craftsmanship.

The hotel’s 198 duplex suites, marble interiors, gold leaf detailing and Swarovski crystal embellishments will all be carefully conserved.

The goal, according to Auer, is to “make it beautiful for the next 25 years” without erasing what made it special in the first place.

That said, Auer told The National that the hotel “will open when it is ready”. No exact reopening date has been confirmed.

If you had a booking at the Burj Al Arab or were planning one, Jumeirah is directing guests to other properties in its Dubai portfolio.

The main alternatives include:

Jumeirah Al Naseem — a beachfront resort on the same Madinat Jumeirah stretch, with direct views of the Burj Al Arab
Jumeirah Al Qasr — a palatial property inspired by traditional Arabian architecture
Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab — Jumeirah’s newest Dubai opening, located right next to the Burj Al Arab