Dubai – This Friday evening will mark the final performance of the world-renowned Dubai Fountain before it temporarily closes for a major five-month restoration. The closure, officially scheduled for Saturday, April 19, was confirmed by master developer Emaar, which is undertaking a comprehensive upgrade of the attraction.
The fountain, located at the base of Burj Khalifa and adjacent to Dubai Mall, has been mesmerizing audiences with its choreographed water, light, and music shows since its public debut in 2009. But starting next month, the landmark will go silent as Emaar begins work on revitalizing the structure with advanced technology, upgraded choreography, and an immersive audio-visual system.
A Five-Month Transformation
Initially announced in February, the restoration plan was recently updated in March to move up the closing date to April 19. The work is expected to continue through the summer, with the fountain scheduled to reopen by October 2025.
“The enhancements will elevate the performance experience and maintain Dubai Fountain’s global reputation as a world-class attraction,” Emaar stated in a press release.
Final Shows This Week
Spectators still have a few opportunities to enjoy the daily fountain shows before the closure. Evening shows run every 30 minutes from 6pm to 11pm, while afternoon performances are offered at 1:00pm and 1:30pm (Saturday to Thursday), and at 2:00pm and 2:30pm on Fridays.
For a closer view, visitors can take a walk along the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk, a 272-meter-long floating platform that brings viewers within nine meters of the powerful jets, which shoot up to 140 metres high, using more than 22,000 gallons of water at a time.
History and Design
Commissioned by Emaar and designed by Wet Design—the creators of Las Vegas’ Bellagio Fountains—the Dubai Fountain has become a defining symbol of Downtown Dubai. It spans a space roughly the size of two football fields and is one of the city's most popular free attractions, drawing tourists and residents alike.
Despite the closure, Downtown Dubai will remain fully accessible, with nearby attractions like Burj Khalifa, Dubai Opera, and Dubai Mall continuing operations as usual.
Plan Your Visit Before the Curtains Fall
With only days left to catch the last show, residents and visitors are encouraged to make the most of this final week. Whether it’s your first time or a cherished tradition, watching the Dubai Fountain dance to the rhythm of global melodies remains a quintessential Dubai experience.
