If you've ever imagined your artwork covering the world's tallest building, this might be your biggest opportunity yet.
Emaar has officially launched the Burj Khalifa Open Call 2026, and for the first time since the competition began, it isn't limited to UAE residents. Creatives from anywhere in the world can now submit their ideas for a chance to transform the Burj Khalifa into a giant digital canvas seen by millions.
The competition opened on July 8 and will remain open until August 18, 2026, at 11:59 PM Dubai time.
There's one major twist, though. While last year's edition awarded the winner AED 100,000, this year's competition offers something very different.
Instead of cash, the winning designer earns the chance to have their work projected across the iconic Burj Khalifa façade, placing their creation on one of the most recognizable landmarks on Earth.
The Competition Just Got Much Bigger
The biggest headline isn't the deadline.
It's who can now enter.
Last year's competition only accepted submissions from UAE residents. The 2026 edition removes that restriction completely, opening the contest to artists, designers, animators and creative studios across the globe.
That instantly turns what was once a regional creative competition into an international stage.
For emerging artists, that's potentially more valuable than prize money. A projection on the Burj Khalifa offers worldwide visibility, social media exposure, industry recognition and the opportunity to add one of the planet's most famous landmarks to a professional portfolio.
What You'll Need To Submit
This isn't a simple artwork competition.
Applicants are expected to create an immersive three-minute audio-visual projection specifically designed for the Burj Khalifa's massive LED façade.
Every submission must include:
- A 3-minute projection concept
- An MP4 preview
- A high-resolution MOV file
- A concept note of up to 300 words
- Original, copyright-free visuals and music
The judging panel will assess entries based on creativity, originality, storytelling, technical execution and how effectively the concept works at the enormous scale of the Burj Khalifa.
This isn't simply graphic design.
It's architectural storytelling.
AI Artwork Isn't Allowed
One requirement is likely to surprise plenty of creators.
Emaar states that AI-generated artwork is not accepted.
Any submission determined to have been created using generative AI tools will be disqualified.
The competition instead focuses on original human-created work, with both visuals and accompanying audio required to be fully owned or appropriately licensed by the applicant.
That makes authenticity one of the most important judging criteria this year.
The AED 100,000 Prize Has Disappeared
If you followed last year's competition, you've probably noticed something missing.
The AED 100,000 cash prize offered during the 2025 Burj Khalifa Open Call is no longer part of this year's announcement.
Instead, the official reward is the opportunity to have the winning design projected across the Burj Khalifa itself.
While some creatives may see the removal of the cash prize as disappointing, others argue that international exposure on the world's tallest building carries a value that's difficult to measure financially.
Either way, it's one of the biggest changes between the 2025 and 2026 editions.
Why This Matters Beyond Dubai
The Burj Khalifa isn't just another building.
It's one of the most photographed landmarks on the planet and has become famous for hosting spectacular projection shows celebrating everything from New Year's Eve and national holidays to blockbuster movie launches, sports victories and global awareness campaigns.
Now, independent artists have the chance to become part of that tradition.
Opening the competition internationally also reflects Dubai's continued push to position itself as a global destination for design, innovation and creative industries.
Instead of commissioning every projection internally, Emaar is inviting fresh perspectives from artists around the world.
How To Apply Before The Deadline
Applications remain open until August 18, 2026, at 11:59 PM Dubai time.
Interested creatives must email their complete submission package to:opencall@emaar.ae
Before applying, entrants are encouraged to carefully review the official technical specifications and competition guidelines published on the Burj Khalifa website to ensure every required file format and submission requirement is met.
Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
Quick Facts
Applications Open: July 8, 2026
Deadline: August 18, 2026 (11:59 PM Dubai time)
Who Can Apply: Artists worldwide
Submission Format:
- 3-minute projection
- MP4 preview
- High-resolution MOV file
- 300-word concept note
Prize: Projection displayed on Burj Khalifa
Apply Via: Email
A Rare Opportunity To Leave Your Mark
Very few competitions allow independent artists to showcase their work on an icon recognized across the world.
This year's Burj Khalifa Open Call removes geographic barriers, inviting creators everywhere to compete for a place on Dubai's skyline.
There may no longer be an AED 100,000 cheque waiting at the finish line, but for many designers, having their work projected onto the world's tallest building could be worth far more.
With applications closing on August 18, anyone considering entering has just a few weeks to turn an idea into a projection that could become part of Burj Khalifa's next unforgettable light show.
