1 / 8Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, is one of the most renowned landmarks in modern history. Opened on January 4, 2010, the iconic skyscraper is celebrating its 15th anniversary on Saturday. Inspired by the shape of a desert flower, ‘Spider Lily,’ the construction of Burj Khalifa started on January 12, 2004, and was completed on October 1, 2009. It has attracted millions of visitors over the years, establishing its position as a global tourist destination. On the occasion of its 15th anniversary, let’s take a closer look at the iconic movies that have been shot at this skyscraper. (Image: Unsplash)
2 / 8Movie: Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol | Directed by Brad Bird, Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol is known for action sequences, strong performance and clever plot. One of the key features of this film is its shooting location, which includes Burj Khalifa and other locations in the UAE. For the film, Tom Cruise climbed Burj Khalifa and performed the sequence where Ethan Hunt scales the outside of the tallest building himself without the use of a stunt double. (Image: Reuters)
3 / 8Movie: Happy New Year | The Farah Khan directorial Happy New Year seized this UAE’s architectural marvel to reflect its high-octane plot. The climax, set against this renowned background, included a beautiful dance performance that captured the triumph of the characters. The family entertainer was also shot at Dubai’s most iconic and prestigious Atlantis Hotel. (Image: Reuters)
4 / 8Movie: Bang Bang | Hrithik Roshan and Katrina Kaif-starrer Bang Bang was also filmed at Burj Khalifa for its high-octane sequences. The pulse-pounding action of the film was set against the backdrop of this iconic landmark. The film perfectly merged Dubai’s allure into its story, creating an unparalleled cinematic experience. (Image: Reuters)
5 / 8Movie: Welcome Back | Directed by Anees Bazmee, some sequences of this memorable film were shot at The Burj Khalifa. The film stars Anil Kapoor, Nana Patekar, John Abraham, Shruti Haasan, Naseeruddin Shah and Paresh Rawal, among others, in important roles. (Image: Reuters)
6 / 8Movie: Pathaan | Shah Rukh Khan’s film Pathaan was also shot at the Burj Khalifa Boulevard. The film featured an action-packed fight scene between Khan and John Abraham in and around the Boulevard. In the film, Shah Rukh played the role of a covert operation agent and John, a former RAW agent and the antagonist. (Image: Reuters)
7 / 8Movie: Pathaan | Shah Rukh Khan’s film Pathaan was also shot at the Burj Khalifa Boulevard. The film featured an action-packed fight scene between Khan and John Abraham in and around the Boulevard. In the film, Shah Rukh played the role of a covert operation agent and John, a former RAW agent and the antagonist.
8 / 8Advertisement: Emirates Airlines ad | Although not a movie, this iconic ad needs to be mentioned on this list. Emirates filmed a commercial atop the Burj Khalifa’s tallest point. The UAE-based airline’s 30-second ad features Nicole Smith-Ludvik as an Emirates cabin crew member. The commercial offered a heart-stopping view of Dubai stretching out hundreds of feet below Ludvik.
