The world's tallest building has been illuminated in the colours of the Bahraini flag to celebrate the country's national day. Red and white were beamed on to Burj Khalifa on Sunday, as Bahrain celebrated 47 years since its independence from Britain. Bahrain became independent in 1971 - the same year as the UAE - and the two nations have a close relationship. The gesture followed the UAE President, Sheikh Khalifa, sending a message of congratulations to King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain on Saturday. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai also sent messages to the king. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, wrote on Twitter that the UAE joined Bahrain in celebrating the day "with great happiness and pride". ________________ <strong>Read more:</strong> <strong><a href="https://www.thenational.ae/uae/government/uae-leaders-send-condolences-to-bahraini-king-on-death-of-royal-1.802188">UAE leaders send condolences to Bahraini king on death of royal family member</a></strong> <strong><a href="https://www.thenational.ae/uae/uae-s-catholic-community-prepares-for-pope-francis-s-historic-abu-dhabi-mass-1.802631">UAE's leaders congratulate Bahrain on its National Day</a></strong>