New Delhi: Dubai’s iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, lit up on Thursday for the festival of lights, Diwali, celebrated by people worldwide. The stunning display showcased intricate designs and a message that read, “Celebrating the Festival of Light, wishing you joy, health, and prosperity. Happy Diwali”, in both English and Hindi.
The world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, in Dubai 🇦🇪 tonight wishes a very happy Diwali 🪔 to all celebrating.
Happy Diwali to all from your lovely Dubai
via Emaar (Oct 31, 2024) pic.twitter.com/SRr0Iq5Qjc
— حسن سجواني 🇦🇪 Hassan Sajwani (@HSajwanization) October 31, 2024
Emaar, the developer of the landmark, shared a video of the display on Instagram with the caption: “Celebrating the Festival of Lights at the #BurjKhalifa! May this Diwali bring joy, prosperity, and peace to all.” The video quickly gained traction on social media, amassing over 345,000 views and over 400 comments, with users expressing appreciation for the gesture. Comments included, “Dubai’s got it going on – tallest building in the world wishing Happy Diwali,” and “Burj Khalifa looks stunning as it lights up for this special occasion!”
Diwali’s global recognition
Last year, the landmark illuminated with the Indian Tricolour to celebrate India’s 77th Independence Day. Such gestures highlight the UAE’s deepening ties with India. The UAE and India strengthened their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during the recent visit of Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to New Delhi in September.
The Diwali tribute on the Burj Khalifa aligns with the festival’s global recognitions. Diwali has officially been declared a school holiday in New York City, and President Joe Biden hosted a celebration at the White House on October 28. Both Republican nominee, former President Donald Trump, and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris wished people on Diwali.
