Dubai is a city of iconic attractions, and the Dubai Fountain has always been one of its crown jewels. Located at the base of the Burj Khalifa and right next to Dubai Mall, the fountain has captivated millions of visitors with its dazzling displays of water, music, and lights. After months of closure for redevelopment, Emaar has now confirmed that the fountain will reopen in early October 2025.
If you are planning a trip to Dubai or already live in the UAE, this update is worth marking on your calendar. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the reopening, the upgrades, and what this means for visitors.
When Will the Dubai Fountain Reopen?
The Dubai Fountain officially closed on April 19, 2025 for extensive renovations. According to Emaar, the property developer behind this global landmark, the attraction is expected to be fully operational by October 1, 2025.
Although the official reopening date is listed as October 1, Emaar has clarified that the fountain will resume operations in early October, giving themselves some flexibility to ensure everything is perfect before welcoming crowds again.
This reopening is not just about resuming the show—it represents the start of an exciting new chapter for one of Dubai’s most visited attractions.
What Changes Can Visitors Expect?
The Dubai Fountain is already the world’s largest performing fountain, but Emaar has invested in upgrades to make it even more spectacular. Here’s what to expect when it reopens:
- New flooring: The old fountain floor often cracked under the pressure of water. A new concrete flooring has now been installed to provide better insulation and durability.
- Advanced technology: Robots will help move the water and control the lighting, creating more seamless performances.
- Enhanced choreography: Expect water jets synchronized to global hits with greater precision.
- Upgraded lighting and sound system: Brighter lights and sharper sound will elevate the experience for spectators.
These changes mean that shows at the Dubai Fountain will be more impressive, immersive, and technologically advanced than ever before.
The Transformation Journey
The revamp of the Dubai Fountain was no small task. The process began with draining 30 acres of Burj Khalifa Lake, leaving the area looking unrecognizable. Without the water, the magnitude of the project became clear.
Over the months, visitors noticed gradual progress:
- By September 2025, the lake had been refilled.
- The removal of giant digital screens along the promenade also signaled that work was nearing completion.
Now, with the reopening set for October, all eyes are on Downtown Dubai once again.
Alternatives During the Closure
While the fountain was closed, Emaar made sure visitors still had reasons to visit the promenade. Here are some of the measures that kept the area lively:
- 500 metres of state-of-the-art digital screens were installed along the promenade, displaying engaging visuals and animations.
- Support for restaurants: Rent was waived for 50 food and beverage outlets with lake-facing terraces between June and September, helping businesses stay resilient during the downtime.
These steps reflect Emaar’s commitment not only to its visitors but also to its partners.
Why the Dubai Fountain Matters
For years, the Dubai Fountain has been more than just an attraction. It has become a symbol of Dubai’s modern identity, drawing millions of tourists each year.
Here’s why it continues to matter:
- It showcases world-class engineering in the heart of the city.
- It offers free entertainment for both residents and tourists.
- It enhances the appeal of Dubai Mall and Souk Al Bahar, two of the city’s busiest destinations.
As Mohamed Alabbar, founder of Emaar, put it: “For years, Dubai Fountain and the surrounding lake have contributed significantly to the popularity of these destinations. As we move into a new chapter, this rent support reflects our commitment to long-term partnerships and resilience.”
What Makes the Dubai Fountain Special?
Before the closure, the Dubai Fountain could spray up to 22,000 gallons of water as high as 140 metres into the air. These jets danced to a variety of musical genres, from classical Arabic songs to international chart-toppers, all accompanied by 6,600 lights and 25 color projectors.
With the new upgrades, the fountain is set to deliver even greater spectacles. Using advanced robotics and precision choreography, the shows will be more captivating than ever before.
Planning Your Visit
If you are a visitor, make sure to plan your Dubai itinerary around the reopening. Here’s why:
- The fountain is free to watch and happens multiple times each evening.
- The best views are from the Dubai Mall promenade and Souk Al Bahar bridge.
- For an elevated experience, book a restaurant with terrace seating overlooking the fountain.
And if you are inviting loved ones from abroad, don’t forget that a UAE visit visa makes it easy to bring family to the UAE and enjoy the attractions together.
The reopening of the Dubai Fountain is more than just the return of a show. It is a celebration of Dubai’s ability to innovate and reinvent its most iconic attractions. With advanced technology, improved performances, and enhanced experiences, the fountain promises to amaze audiences for years to come.
So, whether you are a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, the Dubai Fountain is about to reclaim its place as one of the must-see attractions in Dubai. Mark your calendar for October 2025, because the world’s largest performing fountain is coming back—better than ever.
