When Will the Dubai Fountain Reopen?

The Dubai Fountain, one of the world’s most breathtaking water attractions, is officially set to reopen on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. After a five-month closure for extensive upgrades, the return of this globally renowned spectacle marks not only a milestone for Downtown Dubai but also a powerful reminder of the emirate’s ambition to continuously innovate and inspire.

For millions of residents and tourists alike, the Dubai Fountain has always been more than just a performance it has been an emblem of creativity, engineering excellence, and cultural unity. With new features on the horizon, the stage is set for a future where the fountain dazzles audiences like never before.

Why Did the Dubai Fountain Close in 2025?

The closure began on April 19, 2025, when the Burj Khalifa Lake was drained for the very first time in its history. This was part of Phase One of an ambitious redevelopment project led by Emaar, the same property giant behind world-famous landmarks such as Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall.

Phase One focused on foundational upgrades:

• Waterproofing and flooring replacement to prevent cracking.

• Tiling and insulation works for improved durability.

• Essential safety enhancements to support the long-term sustainability of the lake and fountain system.

This first stage concluded in September 2025, ensuring the fountain was structurally sound and ready for the next chapter of performances.

Phase Two, scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2026, will introduce futuristic technology. This includes robotic water movement, enhanced lighting, and synchronized choreography all designed to create new layers of wonder for audiences.

Official Show Timings (Effective October 2025)

With the reopening, the beloved fountain show schedule will resume:

• Afternoon Shows:

  • Daily at 1:00 pm & 1:30 pm

  • Fridays at 2:00 pm & 2:30 pm

• Evening Shows:

  • From 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm

  • Every 30 minutes

This ensures plenty of opportunities for visitors to enjoy the spectacle throughout the day, whether as a midday attraction or an evening highlight under the glittering Burj Khalifa skyline.

What Makes the Dubai Fountain So Special?

First unveiled in 2009, the Dubai Fountain quickly became a defining feature of Downtown Dubai. Its performances combine art, culture, and technology, turning the man-made lake into a stage unlike any other.

• The fountain can propel 22,000 gallons of water into the air.

• Jets can reach heights of up to 140 metres (the height of a 45-storey building).

• Over 6,600 lights and 25 color projectors illuminate the water.

• Music ranges from classical symphonies to contemporary Arabic hits, creating an emotional, multicultural resonance.

With the 2026 upgrades, these already spectacular features will be elevated through AI-driven robotics, smart lighting systems, and precision-controlled choreography, making each show a unique masterpiece.

Downtown Dubai During the Closure

While the fountain was being revamped, Emaar ensured the vibrancy of Downtown Dubai was not lost. The developer installed 500 metres of digital LED screens along the promenade surrounding the lake. These screens displayed animated visuals, providing visitors with entertainment and a glimpse into the transformation underway.

Despite the absence of the fountain, footfall in the Dubai Mall and Souk Al Bahar remained strong, demonstrating how integral the area is as a cultural and social hub.

Mohamed Alabbar’s Vision for the Fountain

Emaar’s Founder, Mohamed Alabbar, described the reopening of the Dubai Fountain as more than just the return of an attraction:

“The return of Dubai Fountain is a celebration of Dubai itself—its spirit, its energy, and its ability to inspire the world. This landmark has always brought people together, creating shared moments of wonder and joy. When the fountain reopens, it will remind us once again of what Dubai represents: innovation, ambition, and the creation of experiences that leave a lasting impression.”

This message underscores how Emaar positions its projects not just as real estate developments, but as lifestyle and cultural landmarks that enhance Dubai’s global standing. Similar philosophies are visible in communities like Dubai Hills Estate by Emaar, which blend innovation, architecture, and lifestyle experiences in one master-planned environment.

Where to Watch the Dubai Fountain Shows

When planning your visit, location is everything. The following spots provide some of the best vantage points:

• Dubai Mall Promenade: Closest access and free viewing.

• Souk Al Bahar Waterfront: Quieter than the mall side, with stunning direct views.

• Restaurants with Terrace Seating: Dining spots like Thiptara and Social House combine gourmet experiences with front-row fountain performances.

• Burj Khalifa Viewing Decks: A bird’s-eye view of both the fountain and the wider Downtown skyline.

Planning Your Visit to Dubai Fountain

A trip to the Dubai Fountain can easily be paired with other Downtown Dubai attractions:

• Visit At The Top, Burj Khalifa for panoramic city views.

• Explore Dubai Opera, located nearby, for cultural performances.

• Shop in Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world.

• Stay late for the night shows, when the combination of lights, music, and the illuminated Burj Khalifa makes for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Pro tip: If you are visiting Dubai in 2026, return again to see the new technological upgrades in action. Each phase promises an evolution in artistry and immersion.

Dubai Fountain in Numbers

• Opened: 2009

• Water capacity: 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake

• Water sprayed per show: 22,000 gallons

• Height of sprays: 140m

• Lighting system: 6,600 lights & 25 projectors

• Daily shows: More than a dozen

These statistics make it not just the world’s largest performing fountain but also a marvel of modern engineering.

FAQ: Dubai Fountain Reopening

Q: When will the Dubai Fountain reopen?
A: October 1, 2025.

Q: What are the Dubai Fountain show timings?
A: Afternoon: 1:00 & 1:30 pm daily, 2:00 & 2:30 pm Fridays. Evening: 6:00–11:00 pm every 30 minutes.

Q: What upgrades are being made?
A: Phase One included waterproofing and floor upgrades. Phase Two (2026) will introduce robotics, advanced lighting, and choreographed performances.

Q: Where can I watch the Dubai Fountain?
A: Best views are from Dubai Mall promenade, Souk Al Bahar, nearby restaurants, or Burj Khalifa decks.

Q: Who manages the Dubai Fountain?
A: Emaar, the developer of Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Dubai Opera.

Final Thoughts: A Landmark Reborn

The reopening of the Dubai Fountain is more than the return of a tourist attraction it is the revival of a global symbol of Dubai’s creativity and ambition. For residents, it is a reminder of how innovation shapes daily life in the city. For tourists, it is an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Dubai.

With its dazzling water displays, upgraded features, and future enhancements, the Dubai Fountain is set to remain one of the most visited and admired landmarks in the world.