Entertainment

The Dubai Fountain

4.8(10,234 reviews)

Burj Lake - Downtown Dubai - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Metro Access

Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station (Red Line)

10-minute walk from station

Opening Hours

Shows every 30 minutes from 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Ticket Price

Free to watch from public areas

Best Time to Visit

Evening shows after sunset

Visit Official Website

The Dubai Fountain is one of Dubai's most mesmerizing attractions, combining water, music, and light to create an unforgettable spectacle. Located on the 30-acre Burj Lake in Downtown Dubai, the fountain performs daily choreographed shows set to classical, contemporary, and Arabic music. With water jets reaching heights of up to 500 feet, the Dubai Fountain offers visitors a breathtaking visual experience that can be enjoyed completely free of charge.

Visitors can enjoy the fountain from multiple vantage points along the Burj Lake promenade, which provides unobstructed views of the performances. The area around the fountain is lively, with walking paths, seating areas, and plenty of photo opportunities. The shows are especially captivating at night when the combination of colored lights, mist, and music creates a magical atmosphere that highlights the beauty of Dubai's skyline.

The fountain is intricately designed and engineered with over 6,600 lights and 25 colored projectors, producing a vibrant and dynamic display. The choreography is carefully timed with music, creating an immersive experience that captivates audiences of all ages. Watching the fountain's water jets rise and fall in perfect harmony with the music is a highlight for both tourists and locals, making it a must-see attraction in Downtown Dubai.

Accessing the Dubai Fountain is convenient via the Dubai Metro Red Line, with the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station located nearby. Visitors can also combine their visit with a trip to the Dubai Mall, explore the surrounding promenades, or head up to the Burj Khalifa observation decks for an elevated view of the fountain performances. Evening visits are especially popular, as the performances occur every 30 minutes from 6 PM to 11 PM, providing multiple opportunities to experience the spectacle.

The Dubai Fountain has become a cultural icon since its opening in 2009, attracting more than 1.5 million viewers every month. It holds the record as the world's largest choreographed fountain system, stretching over 900 feet—about the length of two football fields. Its engineering allows water to be projected almost 152 meters into the air, creating dramatic arcs and patterns that can be seen from across the Downtown area.

The fountain area is surrounded by a variety of dining options, offering visitors the chance to enjoy meals with a view of the performances. Restaurants like Karma Kafé, Thiptara, Serafina, Abd El Wahab, and Social House provide a mix of casual and fine dining experiences. Waterfront seating allows guests to dine while watching the water and light shows, making for an unforgettable evening.

Special events, seasonal performances, and festive celebrations are regularly held at the Dubai Fountain, adding extra excitement to visits throughout the year. Whether it's a holiday celebration, a musical event, or a themed show, the fountain area remains a hub of activity and entertainment in Downtown Dubai. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early for prime viewing spots and to fully enjoy the ambiance of this iconic location.

A visit to the Dubai Fountain is more than just seeing a water show—it's an immersive experience that showcases Dubai's creativity, engineering prowess, and dedication to world-class attractions. With its combination of music, lights, water, and the stunning backdrop of the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai, the fountain provides a truly memorable experience for every visitor.

How to Reach by Dubai Metro

Nearest Metro Station

Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall (Red Line)

Walking Time

10-minute walk from station

Visit Duration

30 minutes - 1 hour

Detailed Directions

Take the Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station. Follow the signs for the air-conditioned walkway to Dubai Mall and then to the fountain area.

Gallery

Visitor Information

Key Facts

Year Built:2009
Size:275 meters long

Visitor Tips

Best time to visit: Evening shows after sunset
Visit duration: 30 minutes - 1 hour
No booking required for public viewing areas. For restaurant views, book in advance.

Metro Travel Information

Metro Access Details

Accessibility:Fully accessible with elevators and ramps
Best Route:Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station
Travel Time:25 minutes from Dubai Marina
Metro Frequency:Every 3-4 minutes during peak hours
Last Metro:12:00 AM (midnight) on weekdays, 1:00 AM on weekends

Alternative Transport

Taxi, Careem, Uber
Paid parking available at Dubai Mall

Travel Tips

Best Times to Visit

Best Days:Any day, but weekdays are less crowded
Peak Hours:Evening shows after 7:00 PM
Family Friendliness:Very family-friendly
Accessibility:Wheelchair accessible viewing areas available

Insider Tips

Shows take place daily every 30 minutes from 6 PM to 11 PM.
Arrive at least 15 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot along the Burj Lake promenade.
Use the Dubai Metro Red Line and get off at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station for easy access.
Combine your visit with Dubai Mall shopping and the Burj Khalifa Skydeck for a full Downtown Dubai experience.
Evening visits offer the best views with lights and music, but daytime shows provide clear views of the fountain's water choreography.
Bring a camera to capture the fountain, but respect others enjoying the show.

History and Interesting Facts

The Dubai Fountain opened in 2009 and remains the world's largest choreographed fountain system.
It spans more than 900 feet along Burj Lake, equivalent to the length of two football fields.
The system uses over 6,600 lights and 25 colored projectors to create dynamic night shows.
Water jets can reach up to 152 meters, almost as tall as a 50-story building.
The fountain attracts more than 1.5 million visitors each month, making it one of Dubai's most popular attractions.
The fountain's choreography is timed to a mix of classical, contemporary, and Arabic music for a fully immersive experience.

Nearby Dining Options

Karma Kafé - Stylish dining with lake views.

Thiptara - Thai cuisine with fountain-facing seating.

Serafina - Italian dining in a lively setting.

Abd El Wahab - Lebanese cuisine with a panoramic view.

Social House - Casual dining with a vibrant atmosphere.

The Cheesecake Factory - International favorites with great portions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the show timings for the Dubai Fountain?

The Dubai Fountain performs daily at 1:00 PM and 1:30 PM (1:30 PM to 2:00 PM on Fridays), and every 30 minutes from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Each show lasts approximately 5 minutes.

Is there an entry fee to watch the Dubai Fountain show?

The Dubai Fountain show is free to watch from the promenade surrounding Burj Lake. However, there are paid experiences like the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk and Lake Ride for closer views.

How can I get to the Dubai Fountain?

The Dubai Fountain is located at the base of the Burj Khalifa, adjacent to The Dubai Mall. You can reach it via the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall metro station (Red Line) or by taxi. There is ample parking available at The Dubai Mall.

What is the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk?

The Dubai Fountain Boardwalk is a 272-meter floating platform on Burj Lake that allows visitors to get up close to the fountain's performances. Tickets are priced at AED 25 per person, including VAT and booking fee.

What is the Dubai Fountain Lake Ride?

The Dubai Fountain Lake Ride offers a traditional abra boat ride on Burj Lake, providing a unique vantage point of the fountain show. Tickets are priced at AED 73.25 per person, including VAT and booking fee.

Are there any dining options with a view of the Dubai Fountain?

Yes, several restaurants and cafes in The Dubai Mall and surrounding areas offer views of the fountain. Some establishments provide special dining packages that include reserved seating for fountain shows.

Is the Dubai Fountain accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, the Dubai Fountain area is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and designated viewing areas for individuals with disabilities.

Can I take photos or videos of the Dubai Fountain show?

Yes, photography and videography are allowed. However, the use of tripods and professional equipment may be restricted in certain areas.

Are there any special events or performances at the Dubai Fountain?

The Dubai Fountain occasionally hosts special performances during events like New Year's Eve and national holidays. It's advisable to check the official website or local listings for updates on special events.

What is the best time to visit the Dubai Fountain?

The evening shows, starting at 6:00 PM, are particularly popular. Arriving early can help secure a good viewing spot, especially during weekends and holidays.