The show at the foot of the Burj Khalifa
The Dubai Fountain sits in the 30-acre Burj Lake at the base of The Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa. It was developed by Emaar and designed by WET Design, the company behind the Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas. The jets are laid out over a length of about two football pitches and shoot water as high as about 140 metres, with up to 22,000 gallons in the air at once.
Each show moves the jets in time to music and coloured lighting, with a range of melodies in the programme. It is free to watch, which is why it is one of the most popular evening stops in Dubai.
The fountain closed for about five months of renovation and reopened on 1 October 2025 with new blue tiles lining the lake. A second phase of lighting, sound and water effects was planned for the second quarter of 2026, so ask us what is new on your date.
Photo gallery
A few photos of The Dubai Fountain to help you picture your visit. Tap a photo to enlarge it.
Where to watch the show
Every spot sees the same fountain. What changes is how close you are and how crowded it gets.
Free promenade
Stand along the Burj Lake waterfront or on The Dubai Mall promenade. It costs nothing, but the best spots fill up fast.
Dubai Fountain Boardwalk
A floating platform stretching about 272 m across the lake that puts you about 9 m from the jets. Around AED 25 per person.
Abra Lake Ride
A 30-minute ride on a traditional wooden abra, with boats leaving about 15 minutes before each show. Around AED 73 per person.
Restaurant terraces
Terraces at The Dubai Mall and Souk Al Bahar overlook the lake. Book a table ahead and ask for the water side.
Afternoon shows
Short shows run at 1 pm and 1:30 pm, and on Fridays at 2 pm and 2:30 pm. They are usually quieter than the evening.
Pair it with Downtown
The Dubai Mall, Dubai Aquarium and the Burj Khalifa are all next to the lake.
Plan your visit
An easy evening that combines dinner, the lake and a show.
- Late afternoon
Hotel pickup
Your driver takes you to Downtown Dubai. Evening traffic is heavy, so we plan the drive around the show.
- Before dusk
Explore The Dubai Mall
Visit the aquarium, shop or go up the Burj Khalifa while it is still light.
- Before the show
Dinner or a good spot
Book a terrace table, or claim a place on the promenade 20 to 30 minutes before showtime.
- 6 pm to 11 pm
The show
Shows start every 30 minutes. Pick one that suits your dinner, or watch two.
- Late evening
Return transfer
Meet your driver at the agreed point. We allow time for the crowds to clear.
Show times
This schedule was published when the fountain reopened. Times change for Ramadan, public holidays and maintenance.
| Day | Show times | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday to Thursday, afternoon | 1:00 pm and 1:30 pm | Two daytime shows |
| Friday, afternoon | 2:00 pm and 2:30 pm | Later than other days |
| Every evening | Every 30 minutes, 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm | Around 11 shows a night |
| Ramadan | Later start, set by Emaar | Ask us for your dates |
Show times are not official. We confirm the current schedule before your visit.
What it costs
Watching is free. You only pay for a closer view. Prices are indicative, in UAE dirhams (AED), and include booking fees in published listings.
Promenade viewing
Dubai Mall promenade and lakeside.
No ticket needed
Boardwalk
Floating platform, about 9 m from the jets.
Guides quote AED 20 to 30
Abra Lake Ride
30 minutes on the water.
Guides quote AED 68 to 100
Tip for the best view
Arrive 20 to 30 minutes before the show you want. Lake Ride tickets are for a specific departure and cannot be moved, and children under 13 must stay with an adult on the boat.
These figures are not an official price list. We confirm current prices and availability before you pay. Boardwalk and Lake Ride slots can sell out on busy evenings.
How we help you visit
We arrange the transport and help you choose how to watch. Ticket prices are set by the operator and can change, so we confirm the total before you pay.
We take care of
- Return hotel or home transfer by private car or shared vehicle
- Pickup timed for your chosen show
- Help booking the Boardwalk or Lake Ride
- Suggestions for dinner and a good viewing spot
- Friendly support on WhatsApp during your visit
Not included
- Boardwalk or Lake Ride tickets unless booked with us
- Dinner and drinks
- Entry to Dubai Mall attractions
- Tips
Good to know before you go
Times can change
Ramadan, public holidays and maintenance can change the schedule. We check the latest times for your date.
Getting there
Take the Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station and follow the walkway to the mall and the lake. Evening parking at The Dubai Mall is busy, which is why many guests prefer a transfer.
Families
The promenade is open-air and stroller-friendly. On the Lake Ride, children under 13 must stay with an adult.
Photos
Wide shots work from the promenade, while the Boardwalk puts you close to the jets. Expect crowds at the front.
