The Burj Khalifa, a towering beacon of innovation and luxury, is more than just the tallest building in the world—it’s a premier destination for elite brand visibility and cultural expression. With its iconic LED façade illuminating the Dubai skyline, playing a video on the Burj Khalifa has become one of the most sought-after digital billboards on Earth. But the question that often arises is: how much does it cost to play a video on the Burj Khalifa?
This comprehensive guide offers an in-depth analysis of the cost structure, technical requirements, display duration options, advertising policies, and more. Whether you’re a multinational corporation, a luxury brand, or an individual looking to celebrate a milestone in style, this article will equip you with everything you need to know about the price of advertising on the Burj Khalifa.
Cost to Display a Video on the Burj Khalifa
Playing a video on the Burj Khalifa does not come cheap. The pricing varies depending on several factors, including the length of the video, timing, day of the week, and season. Here’s a general breakdown of the pricing model based on current data from authorized media agencies and past campaigns:
| Video Length | Day of the Week | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 Minutes | Weekdays | $68,000 – $82,000 |
| 3 Minutes | Weekends (Thu–Sat) | $85,000 – $100,000 |
| 5 Minutes | Any Day | $130,000 – $150,000+ |
These figures represent the base rates for standard LED light displays. Customizations, peak season displays (such as during New Year’s Eve, UAE National Day, or Expo-related events), or extended runtime may significantly increase the final cost.
Additional Cost Considerations
- Custom Animation/Design Services: $10,000 – $25,000 (if required)
- Licensing and Clearance Fees: Case-dependent
- Audio Integration: Not applicable (the Burj Khalifa LED shows are visual-only)
- Video Production (if outsourced): $5,000 – $50,000 depending on complexity
Who Can Advertise or Display a Video on the Burj Khalifa?
The Burj Khalifa’s LED façade is managed by Emaar Properties, and all content must be approved through their designated media arm—typically through the At The Top or Emaar Media teams. The display is not limited to large corporations; individuals and small brands have also secured airtime for special occasions such as proposals, anniversaries, product launches, and NFTs.
However, there are strict content guidelines. All video material must comply with UAE’s cultural and legal regulations, and political, religious, or inappropriate material is strictly prohibited.
Factors That Influence the Cost
The pricing to play a video on the Burj Khalifa is influenced by several variables that determine the visibility, impact, and operational logistics of the display. Here are the main pricing factors:
1. Length and Resolution of the Video
The base rate is typically quoted for a 3-minute video. Longer durations incur proportionally higher costs. Moreover, the resolution of the content must match the façade’s specific grid specifications. A high-quality rendering for over 80,000 square meters of LED panels involves significant graphic optimization and may require professional assistance.
2. Time Slot and Date
Prime time slots (between 7 PM and 11 PM) carry premium pricing, especially on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The demand for holiday periods—like Eid, New Year’s Eve, or during global expos—is exceedingly high, and bookings may need to be made months in advance.
3. Type of Client
Corporate clients, especially Fortune 500 companies, often negotiate long-term media packages with Emaar Media or third-party advertising agencies. In contrast, personal events or one-time displays may follow a fixed-price model with minimal room for negotiation.
4. Booking Lead Time
Short-notice bookings are possible but often attract rush fees or are declined due to scheduling conflicts. A 6–8 week lead time is standard for most requests.
How to Book a Video Display on the Burj Khalifa
To initiate a booking to display a video on the Burj Khalifa, the following steps are generally required:
- Submit a formal inquiry to Emaar or their authorized media representatives.
- Share the proposed video script or storyboard for approval.
- Confirm the duration, timing, and date.
- Submit high-resolution media in the required technical format.
- Sign a commercial agreement outlining terms, rights, and liabilities.
- Complete payment before final confirmation and scheduling.
A dedicated account manager typically guides clients through the process, from storyboard approval to post-event media support.
Technical Requirements for LED Display on the Burj Khalifa
Playing a video on the Burj Khalifa’s LED panels requires precise technical compliance. The entire façade is composed of over 1.2 million LED nodes spread across 109,252 square meters, spanning more than 828 meters in height. Below are the general technical specifications:
- Format: MP4 or MOV (uncompressed or high bitrate)
- Frame Rate: 25–30 fps
- Aspect Ratio: Custom (based on the architectural curvature and height-to-width scale)
- Resolution: Optimized grid of over 15,000 vertical pixels
- Color Profile: RGB, calibrated for LED display fidelity
- Duration: 3 minutes or more
Non-compliant or poorly formatted videos can lead to delays or rejection of the display request. Most clients opt to work with agencies experienced in façade media or 3D mapping.
Case Studies: Global Brands That Have Played Videos on the Burj Khalifa
Cartier
To celebrate the launch of its new regional campaign, Cartier played a stunning visual narrative across the Burj Khalifa, featuring cinematic animations and brand motifs. The estimated campaign cost was reported to be over $250,000, which included façade mapping and a custom visual sequence.
Samsung
Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S launch campaigns have included the Burj Khalifa multiple times, displaying high-impact teaser trailers synced to global time zones. The return on exposure for such campaigns is unparalleled.
Bollywood Proposals and Celebrity Celebrations
In recent years, numerous high-profile marriage proposals, wedding anniversary dedications, and celebrity birthday tributes have graced the Burj Khalifa’s LED lights. These bespoke videos range from $70,000 to $140,000 depending on the extent of customization.
Why Playing a Video on the Burj Khalifa Offers Unmatched Value
While the cost may appear steep, the value proposition of displaying a video on the Burj Khalifa is unparalleled in terms of reach and prestige. Here’s why:
- Global Visibility: Millions of views across live audiences, social media, and viral video replays
- Exclusivity: Limited number of daily slots ensures uniqueness
- Instant Press Coverage: Regular features in local and international media outlets
- Emotional Impact: The spectacle of the Burj Khalifa’s illumination often translates into unforgettable experiences
- Extended ROI: Content is often reshared and immortalized in digital media, long after the display concludes
Comparing Burj Khalifa Display Costs with Other Iconic Landmarks
| Landmark | Location | Average 3-Minute Display Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Burj Khalifa | Dubai, UAE | $68,000 – $150,000 |
| Times Square Billboard | New York, USA | $50,000 – $300,000 (monthly) |
| Piccadilly Lights | London, UK | $40,000 – $80,000 (weekly) |
| Shibuya Crossing | Tokyo, Japan | $25,000 – $50,000 (weekly) |
The Burj Khalifa, despite its higher per-minute cost, offers a unique vertical canvas visible for miles and delivers a sense of opulence and status unmatched by most Western displays.
Conclusion: The Investment Behind Lighting Up the World’s Tallest Tower
Playing a video on the Burj Khalifa is more than just a marketing stunt—it’s a strategic move for visibility, branding, and storytelling. The price tag reflects the premium nature of the experience, the scale of the canvas, and the global reach it affords.
With costs starting from around $68,000 and scaling up based on timing, duration, and customization, brands and individuals alike should view the investment as one that blends digital spectacle with timeless prestige.
Whether launching a new product, celebrating a personal milestone, or sending a message to millions, a video on the Burj Khalifa elevates content into the stratosphere—quite literally. Those who seek the extraordinary will find it glowing brightly on the skyline of Dubai.