Emaar lights up Downtown as Dubai Fountain closes for upgrade
Enjoy immersive displays, alfresco dining, and skyline views this summer
DUBAI: Visitors to Downtown Dubai may have noticed a change along the iconic Dubai Mall promenade – the world-famous Dubai Fountain, which has captivated millions since 2009, has temporarily fallen silent.
Closed for a five-month renovation, this globally recognised landmark, famed for its choreographed water, light, and music performances, is undergoing a major upgrade. But while the jets rest, the show certainly goes on – thanks to a dazzling new digital installation by Emaar.
In a bold and visually striking move, Emaar, the master developer behind Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, has introduced a 500-metre stretch of state-of-the-art digital screens along the promenade. These immersive displays are set to transform the area into a new entertainment zone, drawing crowds even in the absence of the fountain’s sprays and symphonies.
Digital delight
The installation covers both Dubai Mall and Souk Al Bahar’s lakefront, with visuals designed to engage and entertain pedestrians along one of the city’s most visited spots. Replacing the familiar rhythm of music and water, the digital screens aim to animate the promenade with dynamic and colourful content, offering a multisensory alternative until the fountain resumes its upgraded performances later in the year.
The promenade continues to attract footfall from residents and tourists alike, thanks to uninterrupted views of Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest building. Emaar’s goal is to ensure the area retains its buzz, offering a fresh visual experience while the iconic 30-acre Burj Lake is prepped for its next chapter.
Dining with a view
To support local businesses impacted by the fountain’s pause, Emaar has also rolled out a rent support programme for more than 50 food and beverage outlets with lake and fountain-facing terraces. These establishments, located in both Dubai Mall and Souk Al Bahar, are being granted a four-month rent waiver from June to September 2025.
Historically, diners flocked to these terraces for front-row seats to the nightly fountain shows, set against the dramatic backdrop of Burj Khalifa. With the performances temporarily suspended, Emaar’s initiative ensures these spots remain attractive and viable, encouraging continued patronage while offering some of the best skyline views in the city.
Mohamed Alabbar, founder of Emaar, acknowledged the enduring appeal of the Dubai Fountain and emphasised the company’s long-term vision. “For years, Dubai Fountain and the surrounding lake have contributed significantly to the popularity of these destinations. As we move into a new chapter, this rent support reflects our commitment to long-term partnerships and to helping tenants navigate this transition with resilience and confidence.”
Dubai Fountain’s future
The Dubai Fountain’s upgrade is set to deliver an even more spectacular visitor experience upon its return. Emaar has announced that the revamp will include enhanced choreography, improved lighting and sound systems, and cutting-edge technological enhancements. During past shows, the fountains have reached heights of 140 metres, using up to 22,000 gallons of water, all choreographed to an eclectic soundtrack – from Arabic anthems to K-pop hits.
These enhancements align with Emaar’s wider commitment to world-class entertainment offerings in the emirate. The company has invested over US$ 1 billion in shaping Dubai’s cultural and visual identity, with annual outlays exceeding US$ 50 million to support attractions like the Dubai Fountain, Dubai Opera, and the record-setting New Year’s Eve displays at Burj Khalifa.
The temporary silence of the fountain offers a rare opportunity to experience Downtown Dubai in a new light – both literally and figuratively. Visitors can now walk along a reimagined waterfront, dine alfresco under the glow of the world's tallest tower, and enjoy next-generation visual storytelling through the new digital promenade.
For those who miss the magic of the iconic water dance, the return in October is expected to be worth the wait. But until then, there is still plenty of spectacle to enjoy under the Dubai sky.