Viewing Deck Closed on World's Tallest Tower

The viewing deck on the world's tallest building, Dubai's Burj Khalifa tower, has been closed indefinitely just a month after its lavish opening.

The move has disappointed tourists and casting doubt over plans to welcome its first permanent occupants in the coming weeks.

Electrical problems are partly to blame for the closure of the Burj Khalifa's viewing platform, the only part of the half-mile high tower open yet. But a lack of information from the spire's owner left it unclear whether the rest of the largely empty building, including dozens of elevators meant to whisk visitors to the tower's more than 160 floors, was affected by the shutdown.

The indefinite closure, which began on Sunday, comes as Dubai struggles to revive its international image as a business and tourism destination amid nagging questions about its financial health.

The Arabian Gulf Emirate had hoped the 828-metre Burj Khalifa would be a major tourist draw. Dubai has promoted itself by wowing visitors with over-the-top attractions such as the Burj, which juts like a silvery needle out of the desert.

The city-state is facing a slump in tourism (which accounts for nearly a fifth of the economy) while fending off negative publicity caused by more than $US80 billion in debt it is struggling to repay.

The observation deck, mostly enclosed but includes an outdoor terrace bordered by guard rails, is located about two-thirds of the way up on the 124th floor. Adult tickets bought in advance cost 100 dirhams, or about $31. Visitors wanting to enter immediately can jump to the front of the line by paying 400 dirhams, about $126.