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Base jumping off the Burj Khalifa: A spectacular new world record for Dubai

The UAE witnessed arguably its most spectacular world record to date last Saturday as daredevil base jumpers Fred Fugen and Vince Reffet leapt off the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building.

By completing the breathtaking jump, the Soul Flyers World Champions sponsored by Skydive Dubai claimed the new Guinness World Record for the Highest Base Jump from the Tallest Building (828 metres).

The duo's effort broke the previous world record held by Emirati jumpers Nasser Al Neyadi and Omar Al Hegelan, who jumped 672 metres down the Burj in 2010.

To prepare for the new record attempt, both Fugen and Reffet endured a week of intensive training in Switzerland, which included base jumping off Lauterbeunnen Mountain which is comparative in height to the Burj Khalifa.

“This was the jump of a lifetime and an achievement of three years of hard training. I am glad we landed successfully, accomplishing a lifelong dream,” stated Fugen.

“This was my best jump by far. It was a dream come true,” added Reffet.

BUT HOW WAS IT MADE POSSIBLE?

The construction of a 3x1 metre platform at the top of the Burj Khalifa's pinnacle was the key to the record-breaking attempt and was a mammoth task in itself.

The structure, which had drawn inquisitve looks from eagle-eyed residents and tourists recently, took three days to install with adverse weather conditions hampering its construction within the alloted time.

His Excellency Nasser Al Neyadi, President of the Aero Sport Federation and Chairman of Skydive Dubai, said: “On behalf of the entire team and myself, I would like to thank Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of Dubai Sports Council for giving us the opportunity in making this project a reality.

Al Neyadi added: "Skydive Dubai has become a pioneer in regards to aerial sports and will continue to strive in setting more new world records."

The successful record attempt completes an unforgettable month for Skydive Dubai after they also broke the Guinness World Record for the smallest parachute jump ever.

Spaniard Ernesto Gainza made history after successfully navigating his parachute, measuring just 35 square feet, to the landing site at Skydive Dubai.