Burj Khalifa Open Call Invites Global Projection Artists

Have you ever been to Dubai Mall and looked up at the stunning light shows on Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building? Now, it could be your work on display. Emaar, the developer behind the UAE icon, has opened a new projection design open call and invited artists from the UAE and around the world to take part.

According to Emaar's social media announcement, submissions opened on July 8 and will close on August 18, 2026 at 11:59pm. The goal is to submit a stunning audio-visual projection that will be shown on the world's largest canvas, celebrating creativity, innovation, and the spirit of Dubai.

What is new this year?

This year's contest is open to artists from the UAE and also from other countries. That is the biggest change from last year, when the call was only for UAE residents.

The submission period is also longer this time. Artists now have almost six weeks to send in their work, which is more than last year.

Last year's competition, launched in May, offered a cash prize of Dh100,000 to the winner, along with the chance to have the design shown on the Burj Khalifa facade. The call received strong interest, and Emaar later extended the deadline by one month.

This year, the current listing does not mention a cash prize. The main reward is the chance to have your work projected on the world's tallest building.

How to join

Each entry must be three minutes long. Applicants need to submit an MP4 preview with integrated music, a high-resolution MOV file for the final projection, and a separate audio file. All visuals and music must be original and copyright-free.

Applicants must also include a concept note of up to 300 words. This note should explain the story behind the design in a clear and simple way.

The projection design should be original, visually strong, and in line with UAE cultural values. Designs made using artificial intelligence tools are not accepted and will be disqualified.

If you are ready to apply, follow these steps:

• Prepare your video and a short concept description

• Email your submission to opencall@emaar.ae

A downloadable template with technical details and a guidance manual is available for entrants. You can also find the full terms and FAQs in the Open Call section of the Burj Khalifa website.

Entries will be judged based on creativity, originality, impact, and technical feasibility. Again, AI-generated designs are not allowed and will be disqualified.

The Burj Khalifa facade has long been used for special moments and storytelling. It previously marked the Sheikh Zayed Centennial in 2018 with a video montage celebrating 100 years since the birth of the UAE's Founding Father. It also lights up for major occasions such as the New Year and International Women's Day.