Dubai Fountain reopens today with spectacular new upgrades
Second redevelopment phase promises futuristic technology by 2026
DUBAI’s most celebrated attraction, the Dubai Fountain, officially reopens today, Wednesday October 1, following a five-month closure for redevelopment.
The reopening marks the completion of the first phase of a major revamp, with Emaar confirming the return of the landmark show in the heart of Downtown Dubai.
Emaar had teased on social media that the fountain would be back in action by October, and the confirmation on September 27 gave residents and visitors alike something to anticipate.
The iconic attraction, set on the 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake beside Dubai Mall, has undergone extensive work to preserve its grandeur and safety while laying the groundwork for more advanced upgrades to come.
Dubai Fountain upgrades
The first phase of the redevelopment required the complete draining of the Burj Khalifa Lake. Crews worked on resurfacing, tiling, water insulation, and new painting across the vast structure. The enhancements ensure the fountain’s durability and restore the shimmering beauty that defines one of Dubai’s most recognisable landmarks.
Emaar confirmed that the redevelopment is split into two stages. The second phase, scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2026, promises to introduce groundbreaking features. This will include advanced robotic technology, improved choreography, and an enhanced sound and lighting system designed to push the fountain shows into a new era of entertainment.
Founder of Emaar, Mohamed Alabbar, highlighted the wider significance of the reopening, stating: “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.”
The closure from April 19 this year dramatically changed the Downtown Dubai landscape. With the lake drained, visitors saw the attraction stripped back as Emaar teams worked on preparing the fountain floor. The old base, prone to cracks, was replaced with a new concrete layer to better insulate the water and extend the lifespan of the structure.
To keep the area vibrant during the closure, Emaar installed 500 metres of state-of-the-art digital screens along the promenade. These screens animated the space with visual content, ensuring that Dubai Mall and Souk Al Bahar visitors still experienced a dynamic environment even while the fountain remained out of action.
When are the shows?
Today’s reopening performance begins at 6:30pm, the first show following months of closure. Thereafter, regular timings resume, with two afternoon shows at 1:00pm and 1:30pm daily, and at 2:00pm and 2:30pm on Fridays. Evening shows will run every 30 minutes from 6:00pm until 11:00pm, offering multiple chances each night to witness the spectacle.
The fountain’s water jets remain among the world’s most impressive, capable of shooting 22,000 gallons of water up to 140 metres high at any moment, synchronised with music and dazzling lights. With advanced controls and robotics set to arrive in 2026, the future shows are expected to be even more dramatic.
Now, as water once again fills Burj Khalifa Lake and the first shows return, the Dubai Fountain stands ready to reclaim its title as one of the city’s most visited attractions. Visitors are advised to book tickets early, as demand is expected to be high for both daytime and evening performances.