Dubai Fountain is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system set on the 30-acre manmade Burj Khalifa Lake, located at the center of the Downtown Dubai development in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Most people access the fountain area via Dubai Mall. The fountain consists of a 275 metre long central arc of jets, joined to a smaller arc and 5 circles of jets. When the show begins these powerful jets shoot water sprays to heights of up to 150 metres in harmony with the music and illuminated by over 6,000 powerful lights and 50 colour projectors.

Performances are held every day and last some 5 minutes. Evening shows start at 6 pm and are every half hour until 11 pm. There are also 2 shows in the daytime; at 1 pm and 1.30 pm (1.30 pm and 2 pm on Fridays).  The music accompanying the displays range from contemporary pop to classical. Access to the fountain and shows are completely free and can be seen from various locations around Downtown Dubai.

The most popular spot is the Waterfront Promenade outside the Dubai Mall. Arive before the performance begins as, thousands of people pour out from the mall and the area gets extremely busy when the show starts.

The walkway around Souk Al Bahar is far less crowded and offers a more pleasant viewing experience. Spectators coming from the Dubai Mall will need to set off around 20 minutes before the performance begins to avoid the crowds at the Dubai Mall exit and the Souk Al Bahar Bridge.

For a really fantastic view, book a table or arrive early at one of the restaurants with outdoor seating areas overlooking the lake and fountain. Restaurants with good views at the Dubai Mall include Five Guys, TGI Fridays, Wafi Gourmet – an Lebanese restaurant, Carluccio’s Italian restaurant , Joe’s Café, Madeleine – French Restaurant , and Burj Al Hamam – Lebanese Restaurant.

Several restaurants at Souk Al Bahar also offer fantastic views, Dean & Deluca Café, Baker & Spice, Rivington Grill,, Urbano Italian,, Margaux Restaurant (French), Mango Tree (Thai), and Bice Mare (Italian). The Rivington Grill, Margaux, Mango Tree, and Bice Mare serve alcohol.