Skip to main content
The Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain Tourism History

The Dubai Fountain: A Spectacular Attraction

Located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, The Dubai Fountain is a captivating water, music, and light spectacle that has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the United Arab Emirates. It is set in the Burj Lake, right outside the iconic Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall, which are themselves major tourist destinations.

History of The Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain was officially inaugurated on May 8, 2009, as a part of the grand opening of the Dubai Mall. Since its inception, the fountain has attracted millions of visitors from around the world. Designed by WET Design, the California-based company responsible for the fountains at the Bellagio Hotel Lake in Las Vegas, The Dubai Fountain is one of the largest choreographed fountain systems in the world.

The construction of the fountain was part of a large-scale development project aimed at making Dubai a leading global destination. The idea was to complement the opulence of the Burj Khalifa and the luxurious experience of the Dubai Mall with a unique entertainment feature that could be enjoyed by all, regardless of age or nationality.

Features of The Dubai Fountain

Some of the features that make The Dubai Fountain stand out include:

  • It spans a 12-hectare man-made Burj Lake.
  • The fountain shoots water jets as high as 500 feet, equivalent to a 50-story building.
  • Over 6,600 WET Superlights and 25 color projectors create a visual spectrum of over 1,000 different water expressions.
  • A wide range of classical to contemporary music is synchronized with the performance.

Tourism and The Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain has played a significant role in the city's tourism industry. It has become a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Dubai. Visitors often gather around the lake's edge in the early evening, waiting for the performances that run every 30 minutes. These performances attract large crowds, and nearby restaurants with views of the fountain are in high demand.

The vicinity of the fountain is also home to many high-end hotels and residences, making it a luxury hub for international visitors. Moreover, the fountain has been featured in several travel itineraries and international media, contributing to the global image of Dubai as an entertainment paradise.

Latest Tourism Trends at The Dubai Fountain

Following the global trend towards immersive and interactive experiences, the Dubai Fountain has recently introduced the 'Abra rides', where visitors can enjoy the show from a boat on the Burj Lake for a closer view of the performance – offering an intimate experience with the spectacle.

Additionally, the rise of social media has seen The Dubai Fountain becoming a backdrop for countless photos and videos shared across platforms, enhancing its reputation and adding to the allure for prospective tourists looking for the perfect Instagrammable spot.

As Dubai continues to grow and evolve, The Dubai Fountain remains an unwavering symbol of the city's commitment to luxurious entertainment and its status as a leading global tourism destination.

Other Places to Visit in Dubai

View all Places to Visit in Dubai

Other Suggested Reads for The Dubai Fountain