This archive report was first published on 13 December 2019.
On December 12, 2019, Kenyans were treated to a spectacular sight as their national flag was projected onto the Burj Khalifa Tower in Dubai, the world's tallest building.
The display, which lasted three minutes, was a celebration of Kenya's 55 years of independence, known as Jamhuri Day.
Brand Kenya has revealed that the government did not pay for the display, which has sparked questions about the cost of such a spectacle.
According to reports, the cost of displaying advertisements on the Burj Khalifa varies depending on the day of the week, time of day, and duration of the display.
For a single three-minute display, the cost starts at AED 250,000 (approximately Ksh 6.9 million), with prices rising to AED 350,000 (approximately Ksh 9.6 million) on weekends.
Other governments that have had their national flags displayed on the Burj Khalifa include Uganda, Oman, Canada, United States, Qatar, Philippines, India, Pakistan, Switzerland, and Singapore.
Brand Kenya has stated that the display was a recognition of the strong relationship between Kenya and the UAE, and not a paid advertisement.
As the debate continues about the cost of the display, one thing is clear: the display of Kenya's flag on the Burj Khalifa was a symbol of friendship and a celebration of the country's independence.
