The Dubai Fountain, known globally for its choreographed water displays, has paused shows since April for a large-scale renovation expected to last five months. The site near the Dubai Mall Waterfront Promenade is currently sealed off for construction and upgrade works.
Behind-the-Scenes Glimpse by Emaar
Emaar, the developer of the attraction, released a video on Instagram revealing the ongoing work. The footage showcases various upgrades including structural improvements and advanced maintenance tools.
New Flooring for Better Performance
A major part of the renovation involves replacing the fountain’s base. The previous surface had durability issues, prompting a redesign. The new flooring includes waterproof layers, treated concrete blocks, primer, and insulation. This enhances both performance and visual appeal, with glowing blue tiles now visible beneath the water.
Fountain Lake Dimensions and Tech Setup
The lake covers an area equal to 18 football fields. Beneath the water lies a sophisticated network of robotic arms, water jets, and synchronised lighting systems. These components are programmed to move in coordination with music during shows.
Time-Intensive Show Programming
Each musical show takes weeks of planning. Robots handle water movement and lighting, while fixed jets are programmed to release water in exact rhythm with the music, creating the signature “dancing” effect.
Workforce and Depth Details
Hundreds of workers are involved in the upgrade, both on the surface and underwater. The lake’s depth is around 1.3 metres, shallow enough for maintenance access but deep enough to accommodate the powerful water jets.
Robotic Cleaning and Water Quality
Cleaning is carried out using underwater robots. The new soft floor helps speed up this process. Water samples are regularly collected from different points in the lake to ensure cleanliness and safety.
Visual Entertainment During Renovation
Despite the closure, the public can still experience the Dubai Fountain in a new way. Digital screens on the construction fences play past fountain shows in sync with the Burj Khalifa light display, offering a temporary but impressive alternative visual experience.
