The Dubai Fountain, the largest choreographed fountain in the world, is located in the heart of Downtown Dubai. This stunning attraction draws millions of visitors every year, making it one of the city’s most popular landmarks. It is surrounded by several famous Dubai buildings, such as the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and Dubai Opera House, which are also a must-see.
Every day the Dubai Fountain, often referred to as a dancing or singing fountain, displays an amazing show. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Dubai traveller, it is an experience you won’t want to miss. In this article, I will tell you all you need to know about the Dubai Fountain shows, opening hours, attractions and location. Furthermore, you will learn about the best nearby hotels and fountain-view restaurants.
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Fountain’s incredible features
The Dubai Fountain is a true marvel of modern engineering and design. Spanning an area equivalent to two football fields, this incredible attraction boasts a staggering 22,000 gallons of water in the air at any given moment. The powerful water jets can shoot water up to 150 metres (492 feet) into the sky, creating an awe-inspiring visual treat for visitors.
As you stroll along the 30-acre Burj Lake, the Dubai singing fountain’s incredible features become apparent. With more than 6,600 lights and 25 colour projectors, the dancing waters come to life in a breathtaking spectacle that leaves onlookers in awe.
Each water jet in the Dubai Fountain is equipped with a robotic device that allows it to move in sync with the music and lights. This intricate choreography results in a dazzling display of water, light and sound that captivates audiences from all around the world. The fountain’s state-of-the-art technology ensures that every performance is unique and engaging. This makes each visit to the Dubai Fountain a new and exciting experience.
The Dubai Mall Fountain is also environmentally friendly, as it uses a water recirculation system that conserves water while still providing an unforgettable show. This commitment to sustainability is just one of the many reasons the Dubai Fountain has become a symbol of innovation in the city.
The mesmerising fountain shows
There is something truly magical about witnessing the Dubai Fountain shows. As the music begins, the dancing waters come to life, performing a mesmerising ballet of water, light and sound. The fountain’s choreography is expertly designed to complement the music, creating a harmonious and enchanting experience for all who watch.
The Dubai water fountain features a diverse selection of music, ranging from classical to contemporary, Arabic to international hits. This variety ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy, making the fountain shows a beloved attraction for people of all ages and backgrounds. Each performance is a unique fusion of art and technology, leaving audiences with a sense of wonder and amazement.
In addition to the regular shows, the Dubai Fountain occasionally hosts special performances and events, such as seasonal celebrations, cultural showcases and exclusive collaborations with renowned artists. These unique events offer visitors a chance to experience the Dubai Mall Fountain in a new light.
Dubai Fountain show tickets
Is the Dubai Fountain show free? How much are the Dubai Fountain show tickets? These are the common questions tourists ask before travelling to Dubai. The good news for visitors is that the Dubai Fountain shows are free to attend, allowing everyone to experience the magic of this incredible attraction.
However, if you’re looking for a more exclusive and comfortable viewing experience, you can purchase tickets for the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk or the abra lake ride, which I’ll discuss in more detail later in this article.
Dubai Fountain show schedule and timings
- Dubai Fountain show opening hours: 18:00 to 23:00
To ensure that as many people as possible can enjoy the shows, there are multiple performances throughout the day. The Dubai Fountain shows take place every 30 minutes from 18:00 till 23:00. Each performance lasts 3-5 minutes. Seasonally, there might also be two additional shows at 13:00 and 13:30, but it varies.
Dubai Fountain Boardwalk
For those who want to get up close and personal with the dancing waters, the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk is a must-visit. This 272-metre-long floating platform offers a unique vantage point, allowing visitors to stand just 9 metres away from the fountain.
Have Fun Dubai’s Tip: The boardwalk provides an unparalleled view of the show, making it a popular choice for visitors seeking a more immersive experience. Please note that you can occasionally get splashed by water if you stand too close, so don’t make my mistake and dress appropriately.
- Dubai Fountain Boardwalk ticket price: AED 20
Book your Dubai Fountain Boardwalk tickets here
Dubai Fountain abra boat ride
Another fantastic way to experience the Dubai Fountain shows is by taking an abra boat ride on the Burj Lake. This traditional wooden boat offers a relaxing and intimate viewing experience, as you glide across the water and take in the stunning sights and sounds of the fountain.
The Dubai Fountain lake ride lasts for around 30 minutes. Firstly, the Dubai Fountain boat ride offers a tour around the lake, after which you will stop at a safe distance to watch the show.
- Dubai Fountain lake ride ticket price: AED 68
Book your Dubai Fountain lake abra ride here
Music program
The music program for the Dubai Fountain shows is carefully curated to ensure a diverse and engaging selection of songs. From classical to contemporary, Arabic to international hits, the music program is designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
Traditionally, the show is opened by a song called “Sama Dubai”, written especially for Sheikh Mohammed Al Maktoum. Some of the most popular songs featured in the Dubai Mall Fountain shows include Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” Celine Dion’s “My Heart Will Go On” and Andrea Bocelli’s “Con Te Partirò”. Furthermore, the fountain music program includes local and Arabic songs, such as “Baba Yetu” и “Shik Shak Shok”.
In addition to the regular music program, the singing fountain in Dubai occasionally hosts special performances and collaborations with renowned artists. These unique events offer visitors a chance to experience the fountain in a new and exciting way.
Where are the best places to watch the Dubai Fountain show
One of the great things about the Dubai Fountain is that there are many different vantage points from which to watch the shows. Here are some of the best places to catch the fountain in action:
- The Burj Lake Promenade: This pedestrian walkway along the shore of the Burj Lake offers a panoramic view of the fountain and is a popular spot for visitors to gather and watch the shows.
- The Dubai Mall: The Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in the world and offers several vantage points from which to watch the fountain shows. Some of the best spots include the waterfront promenade, the balcony of the food court and the outdoor terrace of the Kempinski Central Avenue Dubai hotel.
- The Souk Al Bahar Bridge and Souk Al Bahar: Directly linked to the Dubai Mall, the Souk Al Bahar market with the bridge is another favourite spot for watching the dancing fountain and taking amazing pictures of Burj Khalifa on the backdrop.
- The Dubai Fountain Boardwalk: As mentioned earlier, the boardwalk offers a unique and immersive viewing experience, allowing visitors to stand just 9 metres away from the fountain. Book your Dubai Fountain Boardwalk tickets here
- At The Top, Burj Khalifa observation deck: Located on the 124th, 125th and 148th floors of the Burj Khalifa, the observation deck offers a bird’s eye view of the Dubai Fountain shows. While tickets for the observation deck can be a bit pricey, the view is truly unforgettable and worth the cost. Book your Burj Khalifa observation deck tickets here
- Dubai Opera side: If you want to avoid the crowds, walk around the lake towards the Dubai Opera. After you pass it, there is a quiet spot that still offers great views of the fountain and Burj Khalifa.
Best hotels around the Dubai Fountain
If you’re planning to visit the Dubai Fountain, you might want to stay at a hotel that offers easy access to the attraction. Here are some of the best hotels located near the Dubai Fountain:
- The Address Downtown Dubai: This luxury hotel is situated just a few steps away from the Dubai Fountain and offers stunning views of the attraction from its rooms and suites. Book your Address Downtown Dubai Hotel stay here
- The Palace Downtown Dubai: This elegant hotel is located right next to the Dubai Fountain and features a beautiful pool and spa, as well as several restaurants with fountain views. Book your Palace Downtown Dubai Hotel stay here
- The Kempinski Central Avenue Dubai: Situated in the heart of Downtown Dubai, this hotel offers direct access to the Dubai Mall and several vantage points from which to watch the fountain shows. Book your Kempinski Central Avenue Dubai Hotel stay here
Check out all hotels near the Dubai Fountain here
The Dubai Fountain guided tours
If you’re interested to see more landmarks in Dubai with a local, you can book a tour that includes the Dubai Fountain visit. These tours are led by expert guides who will tell you a lot of interesting details about the best Dubai attractions. I recommend the following full-day tour that includes stops at all famous Dubai landmarks, with the Dubai Mall Fountain being one of them.
Book your full-day Dubai tour with the Dubai Fountain show visit here
Best restaurants with the Dubai Fountain views
For foodies looking to enjoy a meal with a view, there are several restaurants located near the Dubai Fountain that offer stunning fountain views. Here are some of the best restaurants to check out:
- Thiptara: This Thai restaurant is located at The Palace Downtown Dubai and offers a beautiful outdoor terrace with fountain views.
- Armani/Amal: Located in the Armani Hotel Dubai, this Indian restaurant features a chic and modern interior and offers stunning views of the Dubai Fountain.
- The Dubai Mall Food Court: With its outdoor balcony overlooking the Burj Lake, the food court at the Dubai Mall offers a casual and affordable dining option with stunning fountain views.
- Joe’s Cafe: Originally from London, Joe’s Cafe also has a branch in Dubai offering fresh pasta, risottos, steaks, burgers, salads and fantastic fountain views.
- Hurricane’s Grill: A modern steakhouse with a laid-back setting and budget-friendly dishes. Portions are big and the food is delicious.
- Tribes: Located in the Dubai Mall, this African dining venue is famous not only for the amazing Burj Khalifa and fountain views but also for the staff singing and dancing for customers celebrating their birthdays.
- Bice Mare: This Italian restaurant is not cheap but offers a prime location to watch the dancing fountain in Dubai and experience the famous Dolce Vita. It is one of the best restaurants overlooking the Dubai Fountain.
- The Meat Co.: One of my personal favourites, this notable steakhouse offers amazing food and friendly service. Due to its location in Souk Al Bahar, the Dubai Fountain view is partial, but you will still be able to see Burj Khalifa in full glory. Furthermore, the singing staff will make your birthday celebration truly memorable.
Tips for visiting the Dubai Mall Fountain
- Check the Dubai Fountain show schedule and timings in advance to plan your visit.
- Arrive on time to secure a good viewing spot for the fountain shows.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved.
- Stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
- Charge your smartphone to take tons of fantastic photos and videos.
- Consider purchasing tickets for the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk or lake boat ride for a more exclusive viewing experience.
Location
- Dubai Fountain address: Downtown Dubai, between the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
How to get to the Dubai Fountain
There are several ways to get to the Dubai Fountain, including by car, taxi, metro and bus.
- By metro: Take the Dubai Metro to the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station (red line), then walk via a footbridge to the Dubai Mall
- By bus: Take the bus to the Dubai Mall or The Palace Hotel bus stops
- By taxi: Taxis and ride-sharing services such as RTA, Uber and Careem are available across Dubai
- By car: You can use the Dubai Mall parking with plenty of free spaces
Other attractions and things to do nearby
There are several other exciting destinations located near the water fountain in Dubai which you can visit before or after the show.
- Dubai Mall: Just steps away you’ll find the iconic Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest shopping centres, featuring over 1,200 retail stores, many dining and entertainment options.
- Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Located inside the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium features a 10-million-litre tank with more than 33,000 sea creatures. Book your Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo tickets here
- Dubai Ice Rink: Go ice skating on the Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink inside the Dubai Mall, surrounded by desert sands. Book your Dubai Ice Rink tickets here
- Sky Views Dubai: A short walk away inside the Dubai View Towers, you will find the famous Dubai Sky Views observation deck offering fantastic Burj Khalifa views, the Glass Slide, made completely of glass, and the Edge Walk outdoor experience. Book your Dubai Sky Views tickets here
- Dubai Opera: The world-class concert venue, The Dubai Opera features modern design and frequent performances from famous artists. Book your Dubai Opera tour here
- Souk Al Bahar: Adjacent to the Dubai Mall, Souk Al Bahar is a modern market featuring goods, such as textiles, carpets, lamps and souvenirs, as well as plenty of dining venues with amazing Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain views.
FAQs
- What is the Dubai Fountain?
The Dubai Fountain is the largest choreographed fountain in the world, located in the heart of Downtown Dubai.
- Are Dubai Fountain shows free?
Yes, the Dubai Fountain shows are free to attend. To have a close-up look, consider buying tickets for the Burj Lake boat ride or the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk. Book the tickets above.
- What time are the Dubai Fountain shows?
Wondering about the Dubai Fountain start time? The shows begin at 18:00 and continue until 23:00. Furthermore, there might also be two additional shows at 13:00 and 13:30, but it varies per season. The night shows are more impressive.
- How often is the fountain show?
The Dubai Fountain show is an ongoing spectacle that happens every day of the week and starts every 30 minutes. This schedule ensures that you’ll have ample opportunities to witness the breathtaking choreography of water, lights and music.
- How long is the fountain show?
Each Dubai Fountain show lasts for approximately 3 to 5 minutes. While this may seem short, the experience is breathtaking. The shows are carefully designed and choreographed to create moments that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
The duration of the show is perfect for capturing the audience’s attention without becoming repetitive or tedious. With a wide variety of songs and styles featured throughout the performances, you’ll be left wanting more.
- How high is the Dubai Fountain?
The Dubai Fountain features powerful water jets that shoot water up to 150 metres (492 feet) in the air. This incredible height is equivalent to a 50-story building, making it one of the tallest fountains in the world.
- Where is the best place to watch the Dubai Fountain show?
There are several great vantage points from which to watch the fountain shows, including the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk, the Burj Lake Promenade, the Dubai Mall, Souk Al Bahar and the At The Top, Burj Khalifa observation deck.
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