Dubai is no stranger to reinvention. From record-breaking skyscrapers to ever-evolving attractions, the city thrives on constant innovation. Now, one of its most beloved landmarks is preparing for another transformation. The Dubai Fountain makeover is officially underway, promising an even more breathtaking experience for visitors in 2026.
Located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, beside the towering Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, the fountain has long been one of the city’s most photographed and celebrated attractions. And soon, it’s set to become even more impressive.
A New Chapter for a Dubai Icon
After closing for five months in 2025 to complete essential maintenance, Dubai Fountain is now preparing for the next phase of its evolution. The earlier closure allowed engineers to carry out crucial tiling repairs, water insulation upgrades, and repainting works. During that time, the water was completely drained from Burj Lake to ensure structural improvements were properly completed.
The second phase of renovation, announced by developer Emaar, will introduce brand-new elements to the world’s largest performing fountain. While specific details remain under wraps, the company has promised “brand-new surprises” that will enhance both the visual spectacle and overall performance quality.
Unlike the previous maintenance period, this upcoming phase is not expected to require another full shutdown. Visitors should still be able to enjoy the daily shows while enhancements are gradually introduced.
What’s Changing in the Dubai Fountain Makeover
Though full details are yet to be revealed, several upgrades are anticipated as part of the Dubai Fountain makeover.
Advanced Technology Integration
Expect smarter, more precise water choreography powered by advanced fountain control systems. Modern upgrades will likely allow for greater synchronization between water jets, music, and lighting. This means sharper movements, smoother transitions, and more dynamic formations across the lake’s surface.
Enhanced Sound and Lighting Systems
The Dubai Fountain already uses 6,600 WET Superlights and 25 colour projectors, producing a combined output of approximately 1.5 million lumens. With the upcoming improvements, the lighting display is expected to be brighter, more vivid, and more immersive than ever before.
Sound enhancements are also on the agenda. Clearer acoustics and improved surround sound will elevate the emotional impact of each performance, ensuring that every note resonates across Downtown Dubai.
Fresh Choreography and New Show Elements
One of the most exciting parts of the revamp is the introduction of new choreography. The fountain’s performances are known for their dramatic arcs and towering jets of water, but the upcoming updates are expected to push creative boundaries even further.
New musical arrangements may also be added to the rotation. Over the years, performances have featured everything from modern pop hits by Lady Gaga and Adele to classical compositions by Antonín Dvořák and opera classics performed by Luciano Pavarotti. Arabic favourites such as “Sama Dubai” have also become iconic parts of the fountain’s playlist. With the makeover, audiences can likely expect fresh additions that reflect Dubai’s global spirit.
The Scale That Makes It Extraordinary
To understand why this upgrade matters, it helps to remember just how massive Dubai Fountain already is.
Stretching across Burj Lake, the system can shoot up to 22,000 gallons of water into the air at any given moment. The jets soar as high as 140 metres — roughly the height of a 45-storey building. When illuminated at night, beams of light are said to be visible from up to 20 miles away.
Each show is a carefully timed performance of water, light, and music, designed to captivate thousands of spectators gathered around the promenade, restaurants, and viewing platforms.
What to Expect at a Dubai Fountain Show
For first-time visitors, the experience is unforgettable. As the music begins, gentle ripples build into dramatic bursts of water that twist, arc, and dance in perfect rhythm. The lights shimmer across the lake, reflecting against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa.
Daily performances continue to draw huge crowds. Typically, there are around 13 shows per day. Two afternoon shows take place earlier in the day, followed by evening performances that run every 30 minutes from 6pm until 11pm. On Fridays, afternoon shows are scheduled at 2pm and 2.30pm, while on other weekdays they are held at 1pm and 1.30pm.
The accessibility of the show is part of its magic. Visitors can watch for free from the surrounding promenade, or opt for a closer view from the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk, a floating platform that brings guests just metres away from the powerful jets.
Why This Makeover Matters
Dubai Fountain is more than just a tourist attraction. It’s a symbol of the city’s ambition and creativity. For residents, it’s a familiar backdrop to weekend strolls and special occasions. For tourists, it’s often one of the highlights of a trip to the UAE.
Investing in another major upgrade reflects Dubai’s commitment to maintaining world-class standards. Rather than letting even its most successful attractions remain static, the city continues to refine and elevate them.
The improvements are expected to enhance not only the technical performance but also the emotional experience. A fountain show isn’t just about water and lights; it’s about the feeling it creates. Whether it’s a swell of orchestral music or a powerful Arabic anthem echoing across the lake, each performance tells a story.
With new choreography and technology on the way, those stories are about to become even more compelling.
Looking Ahead
As anticipation builds, visitors can continue enjoying regular performances while awaiting the official unveiling of the new features. The promise of advanced technology, upgraded lighting, and fresh creative elements suggests that the Dubai Fountain makeover will take an already spectacular attraction and elevate it to new heights.
In a city defined by reinvention, even icons evolve. And when the curtain rises on the next chapter of Dubai Fountain, the show is set to be brighter, bolder, and more unforgettable than ever before.
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