All you need to know about the Dubai Fountain
The Dubai Fountain is a stunning sight for everyone who comes to the emirate. Located in the centre of Downtown Dubai, the world’s tallest choreographed fountain system attracts thousands of spectators every day. Here is all you need to know about the captivating water, music and light spectacle that has become an icon of Dubai. After months of closure, the most popular attraction is gearing up for a spectacular reopening soon!
ABOUT THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN
The Dubai Fountain is one of the best tourist attractions in Dubai. The fountain is located on the 30-acre lake near Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai, between Souk AI Bahar and The Dubai Mall. It was designed by the creators of the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas.
The fountain is 900 ft. in length, which is equivalent to two football fields. Its design features five circles of different sizes, two arcs and powerful water spouts that shoot water up to unbelievable heights. The cost of construction is estimated to have been approximately AED 800M (USD 218M).
WHEN WILL DUBAI FOUNTAIN REOPEN?
In April 2025, the Dubai Fountain was officially shut down to make way for a major redevelopment project. Following the closure, the massive Burj Lake was drained to allow contractors to begin work.
Emaar revealed via their official Instagram handle that the attraction is expected to be fully operational again by early October 2025, with Wednesday, 1st October, marked as the tentative reopening date.
During the closure, visitors noticed significant works: the old floor was replaced with new, reinforced concrete flooring, designed to prevent cracking and insulate the water more effectively. By August 2025, Burj Lake had started filling up once more, a strong sign that the project is on schedule.
What’s New in the Dubai Fountain Revamp?
Dubai never does things by halves, and the fountain’s upgrade promises an even more mesmerising experience than before. Visitors can look forward to these updates once the Dubai Fountain reopens:
- Advanced show technology brings water, sound and light together seamlessly
- Improved choreography with new artistic sequences
- Enhanced lighting and sound systems for richer, more immersive performances
- Robotics is integrated into the design to precisely control jets and lighting effects
The new upgrades promise to take the Dubai Fountain experience to dazzling new standards.
SPECIAL FEATURES
The Dubai Mall Fountain officially opened in May 2009. Well-lit by 6,600 powerful lights, the fountain has the ability to shoot water up to 500 feet —as high as a 50-storey building. It has the ability to spray 22,000 gallons of water into the air at any moment.
Furthermore, it can create different patterns and combinations in the air, which is highly appreciated by the spectators.
The high-pressure water shooters installed inside the fountain make the water dance.
THE BOARDWALK
The Boardwalk is a floating platform located within The Dubai Fountain lake. It gives you a whole new perspective of the fascinating performances. Visitors can commence their journey from Burj Park or the promenade and wander down the 272-metre boardwalk. It is 9 metres away from the fountains. While you’re there, enjoy the other things to do at Burj Park as well.
The fountain performs a variety of songs, from classical to Arabic and international music. Performances take place on a daily basis and last for up to five minutes.
All shows at the fountain are free of charge and are visible from every point on the lake and neighbouring areas. The most popular spot is the Waterfront Boardwalk outside The Dubai Mall. Additionally, the area around Souk AI Bahar also offers a pleasant viewing experience as it is less crowded.
THINGS TO DO NEARBY
There are several attractions and places to check out near the fountain:
- Enjoy breathtaking views from the Burj Khalifa Observation Deck. You can have the At the Top experience with your family or friends.
- If you have children, The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, located close by, are good options.
- Coming to witness the stunning fountain located at the foot of Dubai Mall? You can go for some retail therapy at the mall after the show.
- Dubai Ice Rink is the perfect place for ice skating, situated inside the Dubai Mall.
- There are several restaurants with views of the Dubai Fountain where you can enjoy watching scheduled shows while tucking into a delicious meal.
FAQS
WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN?
Aside from the towering Burj Khalifa, witnessing the Dubai Fountain show is one of the best things to do in Dubai. People from all over the world head to the fountain to see the fountain dance to popular musical numbers.
HOW LONG DOES THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN LAST?
The fountain show last for 3 to 5 minutes.
WHAT ARE THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN SHOW TIMES?
The new timings for the Dubai Fountain Show will be announced once its reopened. Stay tuned for updates.
There you have it! You need to see The Dubai Fountain with your family or friends to appreciate its beauty. There are many other interesting attractions nearby, such as the Dubai Opera and Address Sky View
If you want to explore more of the area, check out our guide on the many things to do in Downtown Dubai.
