Dubai Fountain set for grand return with new features as reopening date confirmed
Rent waived for 50 eateries with terrace views during summer
DUBAI: The Dubai Fountain, a world-famous attraction in the heart of Downtown Dubai, is currently undergoing a significant transformation.
Known for its captivating water shows beside the Burj Khalifa, the fountain was officially closed on Saturday, April 19 for a series of major upgrades.
Emaar, the developer behind the project, has now confirmed that the attraction will reopen on Wednesday, October 1.
While the popular destination remains closed, its appearance has drastically changed. The 30-acre artificial Burj Khalifa Lake, once the setting for nightly performances, has been fully drained to allow for intensive structural work.
Revamp in progress
The first phase of redevelopment includes replacing the fountain’s flooring, which was prone to cracking. A newly installed concrete base will provide improved insulation and durability to support the large-scale performances. At full capacity, the fountain’s shows propel 22,000 gallons of water into the air at heights of up to 140 metres, choreographed with music and lighting.
Emaar has promised a more immersive experience when the shows return. Enhancements include upgraded choreography, advanced lighting systems, and robotics that will control the movement of water and light in perfect synchrony.
New promenade experience
To keep visitors engaged while the fountain is offline, Emaar has introduced a high-tech visual experience along the surrounding promenade. A total of 500 metres of state-of-the-art digital screens are being installed around Dubai Mall and Souk Al Bahar. These are designed to animate the area with dynamic content, maintaining footfall in one of Dubai’s most visited locations.
The promenade offers unmatched views of the Burj Khalifa, and the digital content is expected to enrich the visitor journey while construction continues behind the scenes.
Tenant support measures
In a supportive move, Emaar has also waived rent for 50 food and beverage outlets with lake and fountain-facing terraces. The exemption applies from June through September, a period expected to see reduced visitor numbers due to the temporary closure of the main attraction.
Many of these restaurants typically offer front-row seats to the fountain shows, which attract thousands of visitors each evening. Despite the disruption, guests can still enjoy sweeping views of the skyline and the iconic tower.
Mohamed Alabbar, Emaar’s founder, acknowledged the significance of the fountain for Dubai’s tourism landscape and assured tenants of the company’s continued support.