Rising above the mist: The world's tallest building pierces the atmosphere as Dubai's skyscrapers are shrouded by fog

By Anthony Bond

With a thick cloud of mist enveloping the world's tallest building, this incredible scene looks like it belongs in a science fiction film.

But instead of being taken from a Hollywood blockbuster, these stunning pictures are the result of a beautiful sunrise in Dubai.

The world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, is pictured jutting above the fog, dwarfing its neighboring skyscrapers.

The sea of mist was caused by a natural phenomena. Every year around this time the temperature begins to drop and humidity meets cooler air, forming the rolling fog.

And as the sun rises it burns away the mist to reveal the desert once again.

These pictures were taken by German snapper Bjoern Lauen, who went up a tall building in the central business district at sunrise to capture the amazing sight.

Mr Lauen, 32, said: 'This is Burj Khalifa, the highest building in the world in the heart of Downtown Dubai, surrounded by clouds and heavy white fog.

'It is a natural spectacle that only presents itself to the very early riser able to admire the scenery from a high enough location, above the clouds.

'In the early hours of a very few days every year, low and thick fog rolls into Dubai, one of the 7 Emirates of the United Arab Emirates.

'The fog develops overnight as a result of the disparity between high temperatures and humidity during the day and the drop of the mercury during the night.

'It is a clear sign for the long awaited season change, from hot summer with temperatures above 50 degrees Celsius to the much cooler and pleasant winter months.'

Mr Lauen, who has lived in Dubai since 2005, added: 'It is a bit of a challenge for motorists on Dubai's roads and a rare natural spectacle for the very early riser.

'Once the sun climbs above the horizon; causing the fog to evaporate, Dubai is back to its normal appearance.

'During those few moments before, Downtown Dubai, with Burj Khalifa; the tallest building in the world in its centre, is covered under a blanket of white.

'Buildings, roads and construction sites disappear and nature paints an impressive and surreal picture.'

Standing at more than 828 metres (2,716.5 feet) and more than 160 stories, the Burj Khalifa is also the tallest free-standing structure in the world.