Look up! Superman lights up Dubai's Burj Khalifa in a first-of-its-kind spectacle

TL;DR
Dubai celebrated the new Superman film by lighting up Burj Khalifa with clips from the movie.
Promotional events also popped up at Ski Dubai, Dubai Mall, and even cinemas that welcomed pets.
The James Gunn reboot is getting strong reviews and could mark a fresh chapter for DC.

Dubai doesn’t do things halfway, especially when it comes to global pop culture moments. This weekend, to mark the release of James Gunn’s new Superman, the city turned the Burj Khalifa into a superhero beacon.

The LED façade lit up with scenes from the movie, including a close-up of David Corenswet as Clark Kent and Superman, with the words “Dubai, look up” flashing across the skyline. It wasn’t subtle, and that was the point. It was bold, clear, and unmistakably Dubai.

The promotion, organized by Reel Cinemas, drew crowds downtown and plenty of praise online. One user called it “the best promotion for a movie ever.” Whether or not you agree, it’s hard to argue with the scale.

But the Burj Khalifa wasn’t the only place Superman touched down.

More Than Just a Light Show

• At the Dubai Mall

At the Dubai Mall waterfall, shoppers got a surprise. Nestled among the silver diving statues, a Superman figure made a low-key appearance. The mall leaned into the moment, sharing on Instagram:

“Superman just flew into Dubai Mall.”

It was small, but effective and added just enough wonder to make people stop and look twice.

• At Ski Dubai

Meanwhile, over at Ski Dubai, things got cooler. A digital display showed Superman and Krypto soaring above the snowy indoor slopes. The promo invited families to book advance tickets at VOX Cinemas. There was even a screening that allowed pets to join their humans in the theatre. For a film that features Superman’s loyal dog, Krypto, the gesture made sense and it definitely made social media.

The Film: A Quieter, Hopeful Superman

James Gunn’s take on Superman isn’t just another reboot. It’s a reset. Starring David Corenswet as a more grounded, thoughtful Clark Kent, the movie leans into emotional beats rather than just big action.

Critics have responded well. The film holds an 83% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with reviewers calling it a “fresh start” and praising its emotional depth. It’s not trying to be the biggest superhero movie ever, it’s trying to bring heart back to the franchise.

And it seems to be working. Globally, the movie opened to $217 million in its first weekend, including strong numbers in the UAE and across the region.

FAQs

• Q1. Why did Dubai light up the Burj Khalifa for Superman?

It was part of a local promotional campaign tied to the film’s global release. Dubai often uses the Burj Khalifa for major entertainment launches, from Marvel movies to concerts.

• Q2. Can I still see the Superman display?

The Burj Khalifa show was a timed activation. However, events at Dubai Mall and Ski Dubai may continue through July, depending on footfall and cinema schedules.

• Q3. What’s special about this Superman movie?

Directed by James Gunn, this version focuses more on Clark Kent’s humanity and less on destruction and spectacle. It’s being positioned as the starting point for a new, connected DC universe.