The last of the cranes atop the Burj Dubai will be taken down in a few weeks, an Emaar Properties spokesperson told Emirates Business. The cranes were originally supposed to come down by end-August.

"The dismantling of the cranes will be completed in a few weeks from now as they are currently being utilised for the final phase of glass cladding on the higher levels of Burj Dubai. Additionally, the cranes are being used to facilitate seamless movement of materials for the interior works of the higher levels," said the spokesperson.

Meanwhile, the market is afloat with confirmations from sources close to the project that the project opening will coincide with the UAE National Day. Emaar, however, refused to confirm the date. "Burj Dubai will open this year," added the spokesperson.

When completed, Burj Dubai will meet all four criteria listed by the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat.