VIDEO: Burj Khalifa lit up to mark Lebanese Independence Day

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa, lit up on Friday to mark the Lebanese Independence Day in Dubai.

The Burj Khalifa Twitter said, “Burj Khalifa lights up in honour of the Lebanese Independence Day #Lebanon #BurjKhalifa…”

The display of the national flag was synchronised with the Lebanese national anthem.

Lebanese celebrated 76 years of national self-rule on Friday. Tens of thousands of Lebanese youth massed for joyous street festivities in Beirut and other cities. 

Lebanese demonstrators take part in a civilian Independence Day parade in Beirut's Martyr Square. AFP

Unprecedented protest movement since October 17 has gripped Lebanon, demanding the complete overhaul of politicians deemed inept and corrupt.

The wave of nationwide protests erupted five weeks ago, leading to the resignation of Prime Minister Saad Al-Hariri on Oct. 29. Despite a worsening economic crisis, deeply divided politicians have yet to agree on a new government.

People attend a parade from a crane platform at Martyrs' Square in Beirut. Reuters

Protesters waving Lebanese flags packed central Beirut's Martyrs Square where music blasted into the night. Many protesters said they felt like they were celebrating independence for the first time.

Lebanon achieved independence on November 22, 1943, after 23 years under a French mandate, following an earlier wave of demonstrations that brought together the country's Christians and Muslims.