Renaming Burj Dubai: A Message to the World

Burj Renamed - Burj Khalifa

The entire world keenly watched the opening ceremony of the world’s tallest tower in Dubai yesterday. Anxious and curious was the state of the people before the ceremony that would mark a milestone in history. At 8pm on January 4th, 2010, spectators got what they had asked for. The Dubai Ruler, HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, stunned the world by announcing that the Burj Dubai was renamed as Burj Khalifa after the President of the UAE HH Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The expression of shock on people’s faces spread like wildfire in the crowds only to lead to ecstatic smiles of joy.

In a second, what was intended to be Dubai’s night of achievement transformed to be a moment of pride for the entire United Arab Emirates. Cheers and tears of happiness overwhelmed not only the native Emirati population but also the large expatriate community living in the UAE. It was understood that this symbolic gesture by the Vice President of the UAE, acted as evidence of the long lasting historic bond between the tribes of the region and another step towards the dream set by the founders of this young country 38 years ago. Echoes of this generous move to rename the 828m tall tower reached all corners of the world. The modesty displayed in the path of honor and unity only set an example for the Emirati people and the residents of the modern Emirates.

Following the announcement, there was a magnificent display of never seen before fireworks and lightshows along with the Burj Fountains dancing to the UAE National Anthem. The energy at the scene inspired a united spirit and disseminated the very culture set at the inauguration of the tower that boasts having more than 160 floors.

The inauguration of Burj Khalifa yesterday marked a very promising beginning to 2010 for UAE residents and the world. It set a tone for what is to be seen and what is to be expected in the years to come. “Only if Zayed (Bless his Soul) were alive to see this.” commented an Emirati woman after wiping her tears.