This monstrous beauty is currently the tallest man made structure in all the world, and yes, it sits in the middle of Dubai. Dubai may be known as an oil-rich nation in the middle east, but it’s been trying to revamp it’s economy and image in the last decade.

What I love about this building is that the design pulls in elements of traditional Islamic architecture. Inspired by the Hymenocallis flower, the building spirals upwards in a geometric and nature inspired pattern. With 27 terraces and a floor plan designed to maximize views and natural light, the building probably feels like it’s reaching into the sky. Apparently the view from above or from the foot of the tower looks like an onion dome, also a typical element in Islamic architecture.

For all its fanfare and good looks, it’s actually not doing too well.  Started in 2004, the building was finally opened in January 2010- right in the middle of the global financial crisis.   I hope that means the Penthouse is still available.

IF YOU GO:  For some, the hustle and bustle of the city is superb and the reason to visit Dubai.  From extravagant shopping malls to high end boutiques, Dubai is a shopper’s paradise. Find cheap holidays to Dubai to have more money to spend once you’re there!

To see more of our favorite photos from around the world check out our travel photo page. Let us know your favorites and we’ll include them in our photo of the day series.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Flickr user neekoh.fi  via a creative commons license.