Emaar has launched the Burj Khalifa Open Call 2026, inviting artists, designers and creative professionals from the UAE and around the world to submit projection designs for the world’s tallest building. The winning entry will be displayed on the iconic façade of Burj Khalifa, offering global exposure on one of Dubai’s most recognisable landmarks.
Global Platform for Creative Talent
The developer announced the competition on social media, encouraging artists to take part with the message that “the next projection could carry your signature.”
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According to Emaar, the initiative aims to celebrate innovation, creativity and the vibrant spirit of Dubai by transforming the Burj Khalifa into a giant canvas for artistic expression. The selected designer will have their work projected across the skyscraper’s exterior, allowing audiences from around the world to experience the winning creation.
Emaar described the competition as an opportunity for creatives to bring their vision to life on a global stage while showcasing their talent through a world-famous landmark.
Submission Deadline and Key Dates
The competition officially opened on July 8, 2026, and submissions will be accepted until August 18, 2026, at 11:59pm.
Artists have nearly six weeks to prepare and submit their entries, giving participants more time than in last year’s edition to develop their concepts.
The open call is available to participants from both the UAE and overseas, making it one of the most inclusive editions of the competition so far.
Entry Requirements
Participants are required to submit an original three-minute audio-visual projection designed specifically for Burj Khalifa’s façade.
The preview video must be provided in MP4 format with integrated music, while the final projection file should be submitted in MOV format.
Applicants must also provide a separate copyright-free audio file for the final projection. Emaar has stressed that all visuals and music used must be original or free from copyright restrictions.
In addition to the video, entrants are required to submit a concept note of up to 300 words explaining the inspiration, story and creative vision behind their design.
To help participants meet the technical requirements, Emaar has made a downloadable template and detailed guidance manual available through the Burj Khalifa Open Call page.
How to Apply
Artists interested in participating should prepare their video submission along with the concept description and email the required files to [email protected] before the closing deadline.
Detailed submission guidelines, technical specifications, terms and conditions, and frequently asked questions are available on the Burj Khalifa Open Call section of the official website.
No Cash Prize Announced
Unlike the previous edition, this year’s competition does not mention any monetary reward.
The current listing states that the selected artist’s work will be projected on the world’s tallest building but does not include details of a cash prize.
Instead, Emaar is highlighting the opportunity for international recognition, with the winning projection expected to be viewed by visitors and audiences from across the globe.
How This Year’s Competition Differs From 2025
The 2026 edition marks a significant change from last year’s contest.
In 2025, Emaar offered a Dh100,000 cash prize in addition to displaying the winning artwork on Burj Khalifa. That competition was open exclusively to UAE residents and accepted submissions between May 6 and June 26.
This year’s competition expands participation to artists worldwide, signalling Emaar’s intention to attract a broader range of creative talent and diverse artistic perspectives.
The submission period has also been extended, providing participants with additional time to refine their concepts before the deadline.
Although the absence of a cash reward may surprise some artists, the opportunity to have artwork displayed on one of the world’s most iconic skyscrapers is expected to remain a major attraction.
For many designers and digital artists, seeing their creative vision illuminated across the Burj Khalifa’s towering façade represents a unique opportunity for international exposure and recognition.
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