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Dubai Fountain is the largest system of synchronized water and light effects, located on a 12-hectare artificial lake in the very heart of the city. It was designed by the California-based company WET Design and launched in May 2009.
Shows are held several times daily at intervals of around 30 minutes, with each session lasting 5–10 minutes. You can view the fountain show from the waterfront promenade, observation decks, or by taking a boat ride on the lake. Many restaurants and bars, including Thiptara, Walnut Grove, and Serafina, have terraces overlooking the iconic attraction. In addition, several developments in the city center offer premium apartments and hotel rooms with panoramic windows facing the fountains, such as Address Fountain Views.
This large-scale project has become an integral part of the cityscape and is one of the key tools for promoting Dubai’s image as a global tourism hub. In this article, we cover the reasons why you should add the Dubai Fountain to your business or leisure itinerary in Dubai.
Contents:
Unique Engineering and Design
The Dubai Fountain combines precise engineering solutions with modern aesthetics. The total height of the structure reaches 275 m, while individual jets shoot up to 150 m. The lighting system includes over 6,600 LEDs and 25 color projectors synchronized with the music. The fountains operate according to custom scenarios, with water movement and lighting precisely matched to the audio track.
The fountains' location along the promenade allows visitors to view the show from different spots without obstruction. At night, the powerful lights are visible from more than 32 km away, making them one of the country’s most iconic landmarks.
Convenient Location and Accessibility
The Dubai Fountain is located in Downtown Dubai, between Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa. The destination is accessible by car, taxi, metro, or bus, with parking areas and public transport stops nearby. The Dubai Metro serves Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station, from which it’s about a 10-minute walk to the fountains. Pedestrian routes are equipped with navigation signs and ramps for visitors with limited mobility.
Free Show
The show can be viewed free of charge. It takes place several times a day at approximately 30-minute intervals, with each show lasting 5–10 minutes. The water rises and falls in perfect sync with both classical and contemporary music tracks. Depending on the scenario, the height of the jets, the direction of the water streams, and the color of the lighting all change.
Shows are held daily according to two schedules:
- Daytime shows: from 13:00 to 13:30 (on Fridays from 13:30 to 14:00).
- Evening shows: from 18:00 to 23:00.
Lake Boat Rides
Boat rides are organized on the lake in front of the Dubai Fountain, letting you enjoy the show from the water. Rides operate on small electric boats following a fixed route along the promenade. Each vessel accommodates several passengers and is equipped with safety equipment, including life jackets. The ride lasts about 15–20 minutes, enough to watch the show and see the fountains up close.
The boats move at a slow speed to provide a comfortable viewing experience and allow for photos and videos. The route is angled for the perfect view of all major effects. You can book rides online or directly at the pier. They are available every 30 minutes from 17:45 to 23:30, providing the chance to watch the water synchronize with both lighting and music. Tickets cost 73.25 AED (20 $).
Restaurants with Fountain Views
Many restaurants have terraces overlooking the Dubai Fountain, allowing you to combine dinner with a show. Below is a list of the most popular venues with panoramic views:
- Tulum Restaurant. Mexican cuisine with fresh seafood. The interior features a modern style with an open terrace.
- Asado. An Argentine grill restaurant offering a variety of meat and fish dishes. Equipped with large tables and a separate banquet area.
- Thiptara. Thai cuisine with seafood and traditional sauces. Includes indoor and outdoor areas; the décor features Thai elements.
- Walnut Grove. A South African-style restaurant with cozy lounges and open terraces for lunch and dinner. The menu includes international dishes.
- Serafina. Italian cuisine with classic pasta and pizza. The restaurant offers spacious halls and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
- Karma Kafe. Pan-Asian cuisine focused on sushi and cocktails. The interior is modern Asian style with an open terrace and areas for private events.
Complex with Fountain View
Address Fountain Views is a premium complex offering direct views of the Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa. It consists of three towers and offers fully serviced furnished apartments as well as standard apartments and penthouses for permanent residence. The project's location ensures easy access to all the city’s main attractions. The complex infrastructure includes a spa, gym, pools, sauna, conference rooms, and a business center.
