One of the most popular attractions that you can visit in Downtown Dubai is the Dubai Fountain, which is a fantastic combination of moving water, music and colourful lights. It is situated on Burj Lake, next to Dubai Mall, and at the base of Burj Khalifa, and is a popular place for residents and tourists all year round. The choreographed performances make powerful water jets come alive, creating patterns that move in synchrony to different musical tracks.

Regular fountain shows are performed from the waterfront promenade for visitors as a free event. For a more intimate experience, visitors can opt for the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk or the traditional abra ride on Burj Lake for a fee. There will also be opportunities to catch the show while dining at nearby restaurants/terraces.

The Dubai Fountain – Quick Information

Show schedules and ticket prices can change. Check the latest details before travelling.

Where Is The Dubai Fountain Located?

The Dubai Fountain is located on Burj Lake in Downtown Dubai, in front of Dubai Mall and near Burj Khalifa. Its convenient location means it’s located in one of the city’s busiest shopping, dining and sightseeing neighbourhoods.

The fountain is located in a large lake that surrounds the base of Burj Khalifa. The main viewing areas are accessible either from Dubai Mall or other waterfront walkways surrounding the mall. Another popular spot for watching the performances is the bridge between the mall area and Souk Al Bahar.

The attraction is very easy to include in a visit to Downtown Dubai, as a number of major landmarks are within walking distance. In the same trip, visitors can explore the shopping mall, enjoy the waterfront, take photographs of Burj Khalifa and watch a fountain performance.

The Dubai Fountain Show Timings

The fountain performs in the afternoon and evening. The performances will also happen during the evening every half hour, providing multiple chances for visitors to enjoy the show over the course of a single evening.

Afternoon Show Schedule

Evening Show Schedule

The lighting of the water jets is especially popular during the night, when the water can be seen in the night sky. The other buildings surrounding the area and Burj Khalifa itself make a wonderful backdrop for photos.

People wishing to see a particular performance should arrive early, particularly on weekends and public holidays. Before shows, the waterfront can fill up quickly and if you arrive early to a show, you will be able to have a clear view of the performance.

Timings are subject to change as per special occasions and maintenance/operational needs. It’s a good idea to review the current schedule before you depart.

What Makes The Dubai Fountain Special?

The fountain has water movement, lighting and music, so it performs a coordinated show on the Burj Lake. Its jets are not just random; they move in a specific pattern, following the beat and the mood of the music.

The performances include various types of music, such as Arabic music, classical works and modern international music. The sound of the water, and its flow and movement, will vary with each selection, and may be different during different shows.

The water displays are also famous for their height and magnitude in the attraction. It’s a very strong jet, capable of shooting water up to about 140 metres in the air, giving a magnificent view from the promenade surrounding it.

The next one is the location. The fountain is located at the heart of downtown Dubai, and visitors can enjoy the performance while enjoying the views of Burj Khalifa and the surrounding skyscrapers.

Is The Dubai Fountain Free to Watch?

Yes. The regular fountain shows are free to view from public waterfront viewing areas. This is why it is a popular choice for families, tourists and residents alike looking for an activity in Downtown Dubai.

The waterfront promenade at Dubai Mall and surrounding public walkways are among the free viewing areas. The bridge towards Souk Al Bahar is also an iconic sightseeing spot.

However, the closer the experience, the more charges will be required. A Dubai Fountain Boardwalk is available for visitors to buy and get a ride on an abra boat on Burj Lake. These options offer a new vantage point and may work for those who would like to move nearer to the water display.

Please verify the latest ticket price, availability, ticket operating hours and conditions before booking. Prices are subject to change and may be limited due to weather and/or arrangements.

Best Places to Watch The Dubai Fountain

The right viewing site can make the difference to the experience. There are some places where you can get a good look at the water jets and other places where you can get a big look at the background, which includes Burj Khalifa.

Dubai Mall Waterfront Promenade

One of the best places to see the show is the waterfront promenade outside Dubai Mall. A direct path from the mall leads to it and visitors can enjoy an unobstructed view of the fountain without having to buy a separate ticket.

Frequently selected for first-time visitors, as it offers an approachable point near the principal performance area. The promenade may get crowded before evening shows, so it’s best to arrive early.

Souk Al Bahar Bridge

The bridge between the Downtown Dubai waterfront and Souk Al Bahar is also a popular spot to watch the Dubai Sky. It offers a high-level view of the lake and buildings.

It is a good place for visitors wanting to take photos of the fountain with the Burj Khalifa in the background. It may also be crowded during busy times.

Dubai Fountain Boardwalk

Dubai Fountain Boardwalk is a floating boardwalk that tourists are charged to access over the lake of Burj. It enables visitors to come much closer to the water jets than from the public promenade.

The experience would be for those who wish to be closer to the dance and are willing to pay an extra amount. It is advisable for visitors to refer to the most up-to-date entry conditions and ticket prices.

Abra Ride on Burj Lake

This is an alternative way to see the fountain on an abra ride. The performance takes place over Burj Lake, which passengers can cross by boat and enjoy viewing the water.

This is a choice couples, families and visitors enjoy for a great activity! Before the visit, availability and departure arrangements and ticket prices should be checked.

Restaurants With Fountain Views

There are several restaurants with views of the lake around Dubai Mall or Souk Al Bahar. Visitors may be able to enjoy the performance without standing in the main public viewing crowd by dining at a suitable terrace.

During evening shows, the table with a direct sightline could be very popular. When dining at a restaurant, it is best to see how many seats are available and book a table ahead of time if a table with a fountain is essential.

Dubai Fountain Boardwalk Ticket Price

The Dubai Fountain Boardwalk is an experience and is paid for so that visitors can be closer to the fountain. This is unlike the free public viewing areas around the lake.

The price published is AED 25 per person, which contains the booking fee and VAT. Please note, this price is tentative and will vary, so please check the official booking page before buying.

The boardwalk experience is suitable for visitors who want to see the water jets up close or for those who wish to take a different look for their photographs. Check entry conditions, available time slots and operating arrangements when booking.

Dubai Fountain Lake Ride Ticket Price

The Dubai Fountain Lake Ride will enable visitors to enjoy the show from a traditional abra on Burj Lake. Passengers enjoy a show “from the water,” as compared to the promenade view.

There is a published ticket price of AED 73.25 per person, including the booking fee and VAT. The price and availability may vary; please check the current price before booking.

For couples, families and tourists looking for a water-based activity during their visit to Downtown Dubai, the ride is a dose of fun. Please be sure to arrive at the arrival point with sufficient time to enter the venue.

How to Reach The Dubai Fountain

The attraction is situated in the center of Downtown Dubai and is easily accessible by Metro, bus, taxi and private car.

By Dubai Metro

Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station is the closest Metro station on the Red Line. Once outside the station, visitors can follow the pedestrian link towards Dubai Mall and then proceed to the fountain area.

Visitors should set aside time for the walk, especially during peak hours, to make it to the waterfront before the show.

By Bus

There are public buses that run in Downtown Dubai, including stops near Dubai Mall. The routes and departure times may be subject to change; please use the RTA journey planner to find out the most up-to-date information before travelling.

For tourists who want to travel by bus, it can be a convenient means of transport from other parts of Dubai.

By Taxi

Taxis or ride-hailing services may take passengers down to the Dubai Mall or access points throughout the Downtown Dubai area. There is then a walk towards the waterfront from there.

Peak times are weekends, public holidays and during major events. If you’re looking to watch a specific show, please allow extra travel time.

By Private Car

Sheikh Zayed Road is the best way to reach the area and follow the signs to Downtown Dubai and Dubai Mall. The park area of the mall is equipped with parking spaces, such as spaces for visitors who are heading to the entertainment and waterfronts.

There may be limited parking spaces during peak hours and special events. Parking is indicated by signs at the mall and you should take time to stroll from the parking lot to the fountain.

Nearest Metro Station to The Dubai Fountain

Most visitors come from Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station. It runs on the Red Line and links to various areas of Dubai, including Downtown Dubai.

There is a walking link from the station to Dubai Mall. One should keep in mind that they should walk through or around the mall area, which is the fountain area, after leaving the station.

The Metro is suitable for those people travelling from other parts of Dubai as it helps you to reduce some of the road traffic concerns and parking issue. Please refer to the RTA website or app for the latest information on operating hours, service updates and route information.

Places to Visit Near The Dubai Fountain

A trip to the fountain can be a part of an extended Downtown Dubai adventure. There are a number of popular attractions that are close by, which means that more than one can be seen in the same outing.

Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa is adjacent to Burj Lake, and one of the most iconic landmarks in Dubai. It offers visitors the opportunity to take in the city from above through its observation decks.

The fountain and tower are also commonly snapped together, particularly at nighttime shows. Guest can book an excursion to the observation decks before or after the show, depending on the date and time of their tickets.

Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall is directly connected to the fountain area. It’s perfect for those looking to spend a few hours in Downtown Dubai, as it provides a convenient spot for shopping, dining, entertainment, and family-friendly activities.

Before going outside to see an afternoon or evening show, visitors can take a look at the mall. The waterfront promenade is also accessible at the mall.

Souk Al Bahar

Souk Al Bahar is a shopping and dining area, which lies across the lake from Dubai Mall. The architecture is a blend of traditional and contemporary styles, making it a unique feature among the modern skyscrapers that line Downtown Dubai.

The place is particularly frequented by those who want to visit restaurants and the terraces overlooking the fountain.

Burj Park

Burj Park is a landscaped outdoor area adjacent to the Burj Khalifa. It’s a more relaxed option for those who want to be outside and take in the views of the Downtown Dubai skyline.

The park can also be incorporated into a walking circuit around the lake, though the best vantage point for the fountain will, of course, vary depending on the exact location and the current state of access.

Dubai Opera

Dubai Opera is a performing arts venue in Downtown Dubai and hosts a variety of cultural performances and events (concerts, theatre and so on).

Visitors planning an evening at the Dubai Opera can quite easily combine that with a stroll around the fountain area, depending on the event schedule.

Best Time to Visit The Dubai Fountain

The best time to go really depends on the type of experience you’re after. Afternoon shows are obviously good if you want to do it in the daylight. Evening shows are all about the illuminated water display and the more spectacular view of the Downtown Dubai skyline.

Evening for Lights and Music

Evening is a popular time to go as the fountain lighting becomes a major feature of the show. The water jets are lit up and provide a very strong contrast against the night sky.

Get there before the show and you’ll be in a good position to view it, especially on the weekends.

Afternoon for a Quieter Visit

Afternoon performances are useful for the visitor who doesn’t want to be out late. The fountain looks very different in daylight with the patterns of water and the architecture around it.

Weekdays for Easier Planning

Weekdays are likely to be a more bearable proposition than the busy weekends (although of course visitor numbers will vary with holidays, events and the like). If you’re after a bit more space, then you could well be better off arriving early and avoiding the peak evening periods.

How Long Should You Spend at The Dubai Fountain?

A brief visit is quite sufficient to see one performance, take some photos and walk around the waterfront. If you’re looking to see more than one show or to experience the Boardwalk or the abra ride, then you’ll need to allow a bit more time.

A practical visit may include:

• Arrive 15 to 20 minutes before the performance you’ve selected.
• Watching one fountain show.
• Taking photos around Burj Lake.
• Walking towards Souk Al Bahar or the Dubai Mall.
• Enjoying a meal or popping down to another of the attractions in the vicinity.

If you’re planning to go to the Burj Khalifa and/or the Dubai Mall, then allow yourself several hours for the whole thing. The time it takes to actually get there and do it all can be very much affected by travel time, crowds and ticketing.

Visitor Tips for The Dubai Fountain

A bit of advance planning will make the visit considerably more comfortable, especially during the busy evening hours.

Arrive Before the Performance

Get to the waterfront early to find a good viewing spot. The popular areas can fill up pretty quickly before the evening shows.

Check the Latest Show Schedule

Performance times are liable to change due to special events, maintenance or operational requirements. Always check the schedule prior to travel.

Choose Your Viewing Area

The promenade is free to view; the Boardwalk and the abra ride are paid experiences. Pick whichever suits your budget and your preferred distance from the water.

Plan Your Transport

Downtown Dubai can get quite busy on weekends and during holidays. Always check Metro, bus and road conditions before setting off.

Keep Children Close

The waterfront can get quite crowded, particularly in the evenings during the performances. Keep the kids close to an adult at all times and adhere to the safety instructions that are posted all around the lake.

Check Ticket Conditions

If you’re booking the Boardwalk or the Abra ride, please check the ticket details, your time of arrival, the cancellation policy and the weather conditions prior to payment.

Allow Time for Parking

Visitors coming by car should allow extra time to find parking and then walk to the fountain area.

Is The Dubai Fountain Suitable for Families?

Yes, it’s a family attraction as you can watch the regular public performances free of charge. The kids can enjoy the water, the music and the lights.

Families can of course combine the visit with other things to do around the Dubai Mall (there are restaurants, indoor entertainment and all the facilities you’d need to make a longer day out quite manageable).

Parents should keep the kids close in the crowded viewing areas and follow any instructions from the staff. If you’re looking at the Abra ride or the Boardwalk, then do check the age requirements and other booking conditions before you go and buy your tickets.

Restaurants Near The Dubai Fountain

Downtown Dubai has a good range of restaurants around the lake, the Dubai Mall and Souk Al Bahar. A number of them have outdoor seating or views of the fountain, so they are very much in demand during the evening shows.

Visitors can opt for casual dining, cafés or more formal restaurants. A meal with a fountain view is a very convenient way of seeing the show, particularly for those who don’t want to be in the crowds at a public viewing area.

Not every table has a direct view of the fountain. If that’s important to you, then it’s worth checking the seating arrangement with the restaurant prior to making your reservation.

Photography Tips at The Dubai Fountain

The fountain is a very popular spot for photography as the water display, the lighting and the architecture around it all provide a number of different compositional options.

For a wide shot, include part of Burj Lake and the Burj Khalifa in the frame. If you’re going to take a shot closer in along the water’s edge, you can actually get the water jets in motion. Evening shots will probably need a steady hand or the phone’s night mode (especially if the water is jetting about quite rapidly).

Visitors should be mindful of other people when taking photographs and not block the walkways. Observe any restrictions that may be in place around the viewing areas and paid attractions.

Conclusion

The Dubai Fountain is a huge attraction in Downtown Dubai, a combination of music, lights and choreographed water features located alongside Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa. You can see the regular shows for free from the public viewing areas or opt for a more up-close experience via the Boardwalk or abra ride.

It’s in such a central location that you can easily combine a visit to the fountain with shopping, eating and a number of other things in the vicinity. Checking the current show schedule, working out how you’re getting there and arriving early will all go a long way to making the visit worthwhile.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is The Dubai Fountain located?

The Dubai Fountain is on Burj Lake in Downtown Dubai, next to the Dubai Mall and right next to the Burj Khalifa.

What time does The Dubai Fountain show start?

Afternoon performances are at 1.00 PM and 1.30 PM from Saturday to Thursday and at 2.00 PM and 2.30 PM on Friday. Evening performances are every 30 minutes from 6.00 PM to 11.00 PM each day.

Is watching The Dubai Fountain free?

Yes, visitors can watch the regular shows from the public viewing areas around the lake (no admission charge). The Boardwalk and the abra are separate paid experiences.

How often does the fountain perform?

Evening performances are every 30 minutes from 6.00 PM to 11.00 PM. Afternoon performances are also available in accordance with the published schedule.

What is the nearest Metro station?

Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station (Red Line) is the closest metro station. You can use the pedestrian link to get to Dubai Mall and then on to the fountain.

Can visitors watch the fountain from a boat?

Yes, visitors can book a traditional abra ride on Burj Lake to watch the performance from the water. You’ll need to check ticket prices and availability before booking.

Is the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk worth visiting?

The Boardwalk is a good option for those who want to get a bit closer to the water jets. It’s a paid experience, with the standard public viewing areas being free.

How long does a fountain show last?

The performance is a short choreographed piece. Check the current attraction information for the latest details and allow plenty of time to get there, find a good viewing spot and then get out of the area.

Can I visit Dubai Mall and the fountain on the same day?

Yes, the fountain is right next to the Dubai Mall, so you can combine your shopping, dining and other mall activities with a performance in the afternoon or evening.

Is The Dubai Fountain open every day?

The published schedule lists daily evening performances and afternoon shows on the stated days. However, special events, maintenance, or operational changes may affect the schedule, so check before visiting.