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Iconic skyscraper Burj Dubai has become the world's tallest structure after reaching a record height of 780 metres and crossing 160 storeys in the process.
A company statement claimed on Tuesday that the tower, which is on course to open in 2009, achieved the distinction of being the world's tallest structure surpassing the KVLY-TV mast (628.8 metres) in North Dakota, US.
The high-rise is already taller than Taipei 101 in Taiwan, which at 508 metres has held the tallest building in the world title since it opened in 2004.
Burj Dubai also surpassed the 31-year-old record of CN Tower, which at 553.33 metres has been the world's tallest free-standing structure on land since 1976.Ahmad Al Matrooshi, the managing director of Emaar Properties UAE, said, "This has been a landmark year for Burj Dubai as it consolidated its global leading position in the construction of high-rises.
Every aspect of Burj Dubai, now, is a world-first and highlights the new aspects of construction technology employed for the tower.
"A mixed-use tower, Burj Dubai will have residences and commercial spaces apart from
The Armani Hotel Dubai and Armani Residences, luxury hospitality ventures by Emaar in association with haute couture major Giorgio Armani SPA.
When completed, Burj Dubai will meet all four criteria listed by the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat, which classifies the world's tallest structures.
Currently, some 8,500 professionals and skilled workers are employed on-site at Burj Dubai.
Cladding work is nearing completion and work on interiors, spire and other support systems is progressing.
"Burj Dubai also positioned Dubai in the global spotlight and several plans are currently underway to mark the opening of the tower in 2009," Matrooshi added.
Burj Dubai anchors Emaar's flagship mega-project, the $20 billion Downtown Burj Dubai, which is set to become the new heart of the city.