An Opportunity Like No Other
The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world and a symbol of Dubai’s futuristic ambition, is offering UAE residents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to have their creativity displayed on its towering facade. In a move that has sparked excitement across the nation’s artistic community, Emaar has launched a design competition inviting residents to submit original projection content. The winner will take home a cash prize of AED 100,000 — equivalent to approximately Rs 23 lakh — and have their design projected onto the iconic landmark.
This initiative is not only a tribute to innovation and design excellence but also a demonstration of how Dubai is embracing creativity and empowering its local talent.
A Grand Canvas for Creative Visionaries
Standing at a height of 828 meters, the Burj Khalifa has long been a symbol of human aspiration and achievement. Its nightly light shows and projection displays have become world-renowned for celebrating national holidays, global events, and social causes.
This competition now opens up the building’s facade — often considered the largest screen on Earth — to the creative expressions of the people who live and work in the UAE. Artists, designers, and storytellers now have the opportunity to see their ideas come to life on a monumental scale, visible to millions both in Dubai and around the world.
Competition Timeline and Entry Process
Submissions for the competition are open from May 6 to May 26, 2025. All UAE residents, whether professional artists or aspiring creatives, are eligible to participate. Entrants must submit a three-minute video or animation file that meets technical specifications suitable for projection on the Burj Khalifa’s facade.
In addition to the visual content, participants must include a short write-up describing the concept, narrative, and inspiration behind their submission. This context is crucial for helping the judges understand the deeper message or story the design seeks to convey.
Designs should be submitted via email to opencall@emaar.ae. Detailed technical requirements, such as video resolution, mapping guidelines, file format, and safety limitations, are available on the official Burj Khalifa website.
Themes That Reflect Dubai’s Spirit
While the competition is open to all creative interpretations, organizers have encouraged participants to consider themes that reflect Dubai’s character: innovation, unity, sustainability, progress, and celebration of diversity. These themes align with the city’s ongoing vision of becoming a global hub for culture and innovation.
Designs could showcase futuristic landscapes, technological progress, heritage motifs, or imaginative journeys that reflect the dreams of a global city rooted in Emirati pride.
A Platform for Recognition and Global Exposure
For the winner, the reward extends far beyond the AED 100,000 cash prize. Their design will become a visual spectacle viewed by thousands of residents and tourists in Downtown Dubai, in addition to reaching millions more online through social media and livestreams.
This visibility offers a huge career boost for emerging creatives. It’s an unmatched opportunity to showcase one’s talent to a worldwide audience while being associated with one of the most iconic architectural marvels in modern history.
For artists and designers who often struggle to find large platforms, this initiative stands as a bold example of Dubai’s commitment to fostering artistic excellence.
Emaar’s Vision for Cultural Empowerment
Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar, emphasized the importance of this initiative as a gesture of cultural empowerment. In a statement, he said, “We believe creativity should have no borders. This competition is about celebrating the incredible talent that lives within the UAE. The Burj Khalifa is more than just a building — it’s a global symbol. And now, that symbol can reflect the imagination of the very people who call this city home.”
This aligns with Emaar’s broader vision of transforming urban spaces into platforms for community engagement and artistic expression. By placing art at the center of public life, they’re not only enhancing the cultural landscape of Dubai but also encouraging a deeper connection between citizens and the landmarks that define their city.
Community Reactions and Growing Excitement
Since the announcement, excitement has been growing across art collectives, design studios, and university campuses. Social media has been abuzz with creatives brainstorming ideas, seeking collaborators, and preparing their portfolios.
Design students from institutions such as Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI) and American University in Dubai (AUD) have welcomed the move as a fresh opportunity to gain real-world experience and exposure. Independent artists see it as a moment to have their voices heard through light, color, and movement.
Even those outside the design industry have expressed their eagerness to participate, using accessible tools such as mobile animation apps and digital illustration software to bring their ideas to life.
Dubai as a Global Creative Capital
Dubai has rapidly emerged as a destination for global creativity, from hosting international design fairs and art expos to launching public art initiatives. The Burj Khalifa design competition is just one of many steps taken by the Emirate to foster local talent while building bridges with global artistic communities.
Earlier this year, Dubai was recognized by UNESCO as a “Creative City of Design,” and the current initiative aligns with the Emirate’s commitment to the creative economy as part of its Dubai Creative Economy Strategy 2025.
By turning architectural icons into living, breathing canvases, the city is demonstrating how urban planning and culture can co-exist and thrive together.
What the Judges Will Be Looking For
According to Emaar, entries will be judged based on originality, visual impact, alignment with theme, and technical feasibility. While artistic skill plays a role, innovation and emotional resonance are just as important. The judges are looking for work that not only looks stunning but also tells a compelling story or captures a powerful message.
The shortlisted entries will be reviewed by a panel of visual artists, digital projection experts, and creative directors, ensuring a fair and thorough selection process.
How to Participate: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Review Guidelines: Visit the official Burj Khalifa website and download the technical and creative brief.
- Create Your Design: Develop a high-quality, three-minute video or animation. Make sure it fits the projection specifications.
- Write Your Concept: Craft a brief paragraph explaining your inspiration and the story behind your submission.
- Email Submission: Send your video file and written concept to opencall@emaar.ae before May 26, 2025.
- Stay Tuned: Shortlisted entries and winners will be announced shortly after the submission window closes.
A New Chapter for Public Art in Dubai
This competition marks a milestone in Dubai’s journey toward becoming a beacon for public art and creative expression. The Burj Khalifa has always been a symbol of the extraordinary — now it’s ready to reflect the dreams, voices, and imaginations of the people who make up the fabric of the UAE.
Whether you’re a seasoned designer or simply someone with a creative spark, this is your chance to light up the Dubai skyline.
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