Imagine a giant dancing fountain in the middle of a lake, shooting water hundreds of feet in the air and all lit up with colorful lights! That’s Dubai Fountain, the world’s largest-performing fountain. It’s right next to Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, so you can catch two amazing sights in one go.
Created by the team behind Las Vegas’s Fountains of Bellagio, it is one of the must-see attractions of the city. The best part? It’s completely free to watch! So, are you looking to catch the show? Here’s everything you need to know about Dubai Fountain!
Quick Jumplinks
What Makes Dubai Fountain Popular?
The Dubai Fountain holds the title of the world’s largest choreographed fountain system, making it a must-see for any visitor. The show features over 6,600 lights, 25 colored projectors, and 22,000 gallons of water that dance in time to a variety of music, from classical to contemporary Arabic and world music. Some popular tracks include Michael Jackson’s Thriller and Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman’s Time to Say Goodbye.
The jets shoot water up to 900 feet in the air, creating a truly mesmerizing spectacle, unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Moreover, the shows are free to watch, which makes it all the more accessible for everyone. Situated right next to Burj Khalifa, the fountain is a truly iconic experience offering a feast for the senses.
Best Spots To View The Fountain
Free Viewing
Dubai Mall Waterfront Promenade
This is the most popular spot for watching the fountains, and for good reason – it comes at no cost! Take a leisurely stroll up the waterfront to get to the heart of the action and find the perfect spot to catch the show. Be prepared for crowds though, especially in the evenings. We suggest securing your spot a good while before the show begins.
Souk Al Bahar
The Souk Al Bahar Bridge offers the perfect vantage point to enjoy the show for free. The bridge connects Dubai Mall to Souk Al Bahar and runs across the Burj Lake, placing you in a pretty good spot. An advantage to this viewing spot is the lack of crowds compared to the promenade. You can also book the outdoor tables here to get better views, but make sure you book them in advance. If you can’t get a reservation, you can still pop out on the balconies for amazing fountain views.
Paid Viewing
Dubai Fountain Boardwalk
This unique viewing platform allows you to get up close and personal with Dubai Fountain. The Boardwalk is a 272-meter-long floating platform that takes you right to the heart of the show. At its closest point, you’ll be just 9 meters away from the dancing fountains. Walking on the boardwalk itself is an experience, like walking on water. You’ll be surrounded by music, lights, and choreography, allowing you to feel like you’re a part of the show.
Dubai Fountain Lake Ride
The Dubai Fountain Lake Ride offers a unique opportunity to experience the fountain. You’ll set sail on a traditional Abra water taxi and cruise across the Burj Lake, taking in stunning views of the Downtown Dubai skyline and Burj Khalifa. As the sun sets, the fountains come alive with a dazzling display of lights, water, and music. What’s better? You’ll have front-row seats to the action!
Restaurant Viewing
Armani/Ristorante: This fine-dining restaurant offers stunning views of the Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa from its terrace. The menu features Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Thiptara: This Thai restaurant is located in Palace Downtown Dubai and offers both indoor and outdoor seating with views of the Dubai Fountain. The menu features a wide variety of Thai dishes, from curries to noodles.
Dubai Fountain Show Times & Tickets
Dubai Fountain shows happen daily.
➤ Afternoon Shows: 1 PM and 1:30 PM (extending to 2 PM on Fridays)
➤ Evening Shows: Every 30 minutes from 6 PM to 11 PM
Tickets (prices are subject to change):
➤ Dubai Fountain Boardwalk: AED25 per person
➤ Dubai Fountain Lake Ride: AED73.25 per person
Getting There
➤ Metro: Take the Red line and get off at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station. It’s 15 min away.
➤ Bus: Take Bus 29 from the World Trade Centre Hotel 1 stop and get off at Dubai Mall.
Stay Near Dubai Fountain
Dubai Fountain is close to many hotels in Downtown Dubai, which come in all variations and budgets. Some popular options include:
Address Downtown: Situated in the heart of Downtown Dubai, the hotel offers chic, upscale rooms and suites, many with balconies and terraces. Some rooms even have views of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain. In-room amenities include 24-hour room service, daily housekeeping, and entertainment options.
Palace Downtown: This 5-star hotel is known for its exquisite architecture, impeccable service, and breathtaking views of the iconic Burj Khalifa. Built on the edge of a lake on the Old Town Island, Palace Downtown is a blend of classical themes and Arabian tradition. It offers a unique blend of Middle Eastern heritage and elegant Dubai modernity.
Rove Downtown: Conveniently located in Downtown Dubai, this hotel is adjacent to Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. Its prime location allows guests to easily access popular attractions and entertainment venues like Dubai Fountain for instance. The hotel features a variety of amenities and is a popular choice among budget-conscious travelers.
Ramada By Wyndham Downtown Dubai: Ramada By Wyndham is a great choice for travelers who want to be close to the city’s most popular attractions. It offers a variety of amenities alongside guest rooms that are spacious and well-appointed. Many of the rooms also have stunning views of Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain.
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Beyond Dubai Fountain
Burj Khalifa
Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building, standing at a height of 828 meters (2,717 ft) and having 163 floors. It features luxurious residences designed by Giorgio Armani, office space, observation decks, restaurants, and health facilities. The building also boasts several world records, including the highest occupied floor, the highest outdoor observation deck, and the elevator with the longest travel distance.
Hotels With Burj Khalifa View
Dubai Mall
Just a stone’s throw away from the Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall is not just a shopping destination but a world of entertainment and leisure. It’s one of the largest malls in the world, housing more than 1,200 retail stores, from high-street brands to luxury designer labels. The mall features the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, Dubai Ice Rink, a VR Park, and KidZania, an innovative children’s edutainment concept.
Hotels Near Dubai Mall
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s so special about Dubai Fountain?
Dubai Fountain is a captivating water, music, and light spectacle often hailed as the world’s tallest performing fountain. At over 900 ft in length (the size of two football pitches), it is a visual feast from any angle you experience it.
Is there a fee to catch the Dubai Fountain show?
No, watching the Dubai Fountain show is completely free! You can enjoy the spectacle from various locations around Burj Lake.
How often do Dubai Fountain shows take place?
Dubai Fountain shows happen daily. There are usually afternoon shows (around 1 PM and 1:30 PM) and evening shows every 30 minutes from 6 PM to 11 PM.
What’s the best time to see the Dubai Fountain?
Evening shows offer the best experience because you can witness the full effect of the lights, music, and water choreography.
Are there any places to get a closer look at Dubai Fountain?
While you can enjoy the show for free from surrounding areas, there are paid experiences for a closer view. These include the Dubai Fountain Lake Ride, Dubai Fountain Boardwalk, or restaurants with a dedicated fountain view.