New Year’s Eve at Burj Khalifa is one of the world’s iconic celebrations, alongside those in Sydney and New York City. In Dubai, fireworks blend with the largest LED facade on the globe. After an upgrade in early December, the screen that wraps around the Burj Khalifa has become brighter and more colorful. The 2025 New Year’s Eve show marked its first global test.
15 years ago, the world’s tallest building to date was opened. Time for a few cosmetic fresh-ups. Last year, the 2018 retrofitted LED media facade was complemented with dynamic RGBW LEDs. Real estate owner Emaar presented the new facade in its full splendor for the first time during the Eid Al Etihad celebrations in early December. The global premiere took place on New Year’s Eve
The new dynamic RGBW lighting system replaces the classic lighting and complements the LED media facade that has made Burj Khalifa the largest DooH screen in the world in recent years. The upgrade transforms the iconic facade into a unique visual spectacle that attracts worldwide attention – not only on New Year’s Eve.
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Six-month test phase
The LED upgrade process was carefully coordinated, including a six-month test phase with a mock-up to ensure seamless integration. The updated LED system is based on dynamic RGBW technology and replaces static lights with color-changing, addressable elements that can create complex lighting effects. Without affecting the architecture of Burj Khalifa, the system enables dynamic lighting scenes – from festive productions to everyday lighting. It complements the tower’s LED media façade and adapts to different occasions and celebrations.
The lighting system not only enhances Burj Khalifa’s visual presence but also reinforces its position as a global icon of architectural brilliance and a symbol of modern design innovation. By perfectly combining technology and art, this project sets a new benchmark for architectural lighting and promises to inspire future projects worldwide.
