CNN has reported on the plight of Burj Khalifa residents who faced the threat of unplugged air-conditioning and out of service elevators in a dispute with developer Emaar Properties over unpaid service fees.
“ What is it like to live in the tallest building in the world?
“Well, if the elevators stop, not that great.
“Unplugged air conditioning and out-of-service elevators became a real threat for residents of the 160-story Burj Khalifa skyscraper in Dubai over the weekend,” the channel reported.
Burj Khalifa is the most visited tourist attraction of Dubai and has established itself as the most admired Dubai icon in the world. Burj Khalifa residents enjoy a special aura bestowed by their residence’s status as the world’s tallest tower.
CNN quoted an Emaar spokesman saying a circular has been issued to remind and urge residents to pay the service charges to ensure the seamless management of the common areas and other community amenities. The circular was sent after repeated reminders to pay the pending service charges and following multiple attempts to get the attention of the defaulting home-owners, the spokesperson clarified.
The CNN story follows a report carried by The National to the effect that developer has disabled residents’ access to community areas such as garage, gym, pool, and tennis courts.
CNN acknowledged that service charges are a contentious issue with many tenants caught in the middle of disputes between their landlords, who often view the fees as too high, and the developers who run the buildings.
