Dubai is a city known for its luxurious attractions and architectural wonders. Among these, The Dubai Fountain stands out as one of the most captivating spectacles in the world. Located at the heart of Downtown Dubai, beside the iconic Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, this mesmerizing water show blends music, light, and motion into an unforgettable experience.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning tourist, watching The Dubai Fountain perform its rhythmic dance is a must-do activity in the city. If you are planning to travel soon, make sure to get your urgent Dubai visa to witness this breathtaking display up close.
What Is The Dubai Fountain?
The Dubai Fountain is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system, set on the 30-acre Burj Lake. It was designed by WET Design, the same company that created the famous Bellagio Fountains in Las Vegas. Opened in 2009, it has since become one of Dubai’s most visited and photographed attractions.
The fountain shoots water up to 500 feet high — as tall as a 50-story building — synchronized with music and illuminated by over 6,600 lights and 25 color projectors. Each show is a unique combination of movement, sound, and color, leaving spectators in awe.
The Location – Where Art Meets Architecture
Located in Downtown Dubai, right between The Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, the fountain’s setting enhances its charm. The surrounding skyline, glistening lake, and lively environment make it one of the most picturesque spots in Dubai.
Visitors can enjoy the view from multiple points:
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The Waterfront Promenade of The Dubai Mall
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The Burj Park area
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Or even from one of the many restaurants with outdoor seating facing the lake
To get the best view, arrive early in the evening, especially on weekends when it attracts large crowds.
The Dubai Fountain Show – A Dance of Lights and Music
The fountain show takes place every evening, combining music from different genres — from classical Arabic tunes to modern pop songs. Each performance lasts about five minutes and is repeated every 30 minutes.
The experience is magical — as the music begins, streams of water rise and twist in perfect harmony, illuminated by vibrant lights. Songs featured in the show range from Andrea Bocelli’s Time to Say Goodbye to popular Arabic melodies and even Bollywood hits.
Every show is unique, and visitors often find themselves staying for multiple performances just to enjoy the variety of music and choreography.
The Dubai Fountain Boardwalk – A Closer Experience
For those who wish to experience The Dubai Fountain more closely, the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk offers a perfect spot. Opened in 2017, this floating platform allows visitors to walk as close as 9 meters from the fountain jets.
Located between the Burj Park and The Dubai Fountain, the boardwalk stretches about 272 meters long. Walking along it gives you a front-row experience — you can feel the mist from the fountains and hear the music more vividly.
Entry to the boardwalk requires a small ticket fee, and it’s best enjoyed in the evening when the lights and water come alive.
The Dubai Fountain Lake Ride
Another memorable way to enjoy The Dubai Fountain is through the Lake Ride. Visitors can hop onto a traditional abra (wooden boat) and sail across the Burj Lake while the fountain performs.
Each ride lasts about 30 minutes and provides an unbeatable view of both the Burj Khalifa and the fountain show. The reflection of lights on the water, combined with the rhythmic music, creates a magical atmosphere that’s hard to forget.
If you’re visiting Dubai soon, don’t miss booking this ride — and remember to apply for your urgent Dubai visa early to avoid any last-minute rush.
The Technology Behind The Dubai Fountain
The brilliance of The Dubai Fountain lies in its technology and engineering. Built with state-of-the-art design, it uses advanced nozzles and high-pressure pumps to shoot water up in intricate patterns.
Here are some fascinating facts about its technology:
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Over 6,600 lights and 25 color projectors create dynamic visual effects.
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Water is shot up to 500 feet in the air.
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It spans 900 feet in length — almost equivalent to two football fields.
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The choreography is precisely timed to match the rhythm of the music.
This perfect coordination between light, sound, and water makes it a true engineering marvel.
Best Time to Visit The Dubai Fountain
The Dubai Fountain operates in the afternoon and evening, but the evening shows are far more enchanting due to the colorful lighting.
Typical show timings:
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Afternoon Shows: 1 PM & 1:30 PM (except Fridays), 1:30 PM & 2 PM (on Fridays)
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Evening Shows: Every 30 minutes from 6 PM to 11 PM
To make the most of your visit, arrive early, grab a spot near the lake, and enjoy dinner at one of the nearby restaurants before the show starts.
Dining Near The Dubai Fountain
There’s nothing more relaxing than enjoying a meal with a view of The Dubai Fountain. The area around The Dubai Mall offers several restaurants and cafés overlooking the fountain and Burj Lake.
Some popular options include:
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Abd El Wahab – Authentic Lebanese cuisine with great fountain views
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Joe’s Café – Modern dining and perfect sunset seating
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Time Out Market Dubai – Offers a variety of cuisines from local chefs
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Tulum – A Mexican-inspired restaurant located inside The Dubai Mall
Each restaurant offers its own unique experience, allowing you to enjoy the fountain show while dining in comfort.
Photography Tips for Visitors
If you love photography, The Dubai Fountain is a paradise for capturing stunning moments. Here are some tips:
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Use a tripod for clear night shots.
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Arrive early to secure the best viewing spot.
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Use video mode to capture the movement of the water and lights.
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Try a long-exposure shot for a creative effect.
The reflection of lights on the water provides an excellent opportunity to capture Dubai’s charm in every frame.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss The Dubai Fountain
There are countless attractions in Dubai, but The Dubai Fountain remains a must-visit for several reasons:
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It’s free to watch, making it perfect for all travelers.
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It’s located near two of Dubai’s top attractions — Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall.
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It combines technology, art, and culture in one breathtaking performance.
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Every show is unique, ensuring a fresh experience every time.
So, whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, The Dubai Fountain should be at the top of your itinerary.
How to Reach The Dubai Fountain
By Metro:
Take the Red Line and get off at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station. From there, you can take a short walk or use the air-conditioned walkway directly into The Dubai Mall.
By Bus:
Buses like F13 run regularly to The Dubai Mall bus stop, just a short walk away from the fountain.
By Taxi:
Taxis are easily available throughout Dubai and can drop you directly at The Dubai Mall’s main entrance.
Plan Your Visit with an Urgent Dubai Visa
Before booking your flight to witness The Dubai Fountain, ensure your visa process is complete. If your trip is sudden or for a short stay, an urgent Dubai visa is the ideal option.
With the urgent Dubai visa, you can get approval in 4–12 hours, allowing you to plan last-minute travel with ease. Simply:
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Visit the Dubai Visa Express website.
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Fill out the online visa application.
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Upload your passport and photograph.
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Choose the urgent Dubai visa option.
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Receive your visa quickly via email.
This process ensures a smooth entry into Dubai, so you can enjoy attractions like The Dubai Fountain without delay.
Fun Facts About The Dubai Fountain
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It cost AED 800 million to build (about USD 218 million).
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The fountain can shoot water at a speed of 22,000 gallons per minute.
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It can be seen from over 30 kilometers away.
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More than 1.5 million visitors watch the show every week.
Conclusion
The Dubai Fountain is more than just a water show — it’s a symbol of Dubai’s creativity, ambition, and innovation. The harmony of light, sound, and motion leaves visitors mesmerized, making it one of the most unforgettable experiences in the city.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Where is The Dubai Fountain located?
A1: It is located on Burj Lake, right outside The Dubai Mall and next to Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai.
Q2: How much does it cost to see The Dubai Fountain?
A2: Watching the fountain show is completely free. However, there are paid options like the Boardwalk or Lake Ride for closer views.
Q3: What time are the fountain shows held?
A3: Evening shows run every 30 minutes from 6 PM to 11 PM, while afternoon shows are limited to two performances.
Q4: Can I take a boat ride to see The Dubai Fountain?
A4: Yes, the Lake Ride offers an excellent opportunity to view the show up close from a traditional boat.
Q5: Do I need an urgent Dubai visa to visit The Dubai Fountain?
A5: Yes, if you’re planning an immediate or short-notice trip, applying for an urgent Dubai visa ensures smooth and fast travel.
Q6: Is photography allowed during the show?
A6: Absolutely! Photography and videography are allowed and encouraged, as the fountain provides stunning visuals.