Dubai Fountain shows return to regular schedule after mourning period

The Dubai Fountain.

Dubai Fountain performances returned to their regular presentation on Thursday (October 1) following the end of the emirate’s 10-day official mourning period for Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The fountain, located beside Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai, temporarily paused its shows after Dubai announced official mourning following Sheikh Ahmed’s death on September 21.

However, performances resumed on September 24 in an adjusted format, with reduced music volume and a shorter soundtrack to reflect the mourning period, according to Emaar, the developer that operates the attraction. The adjusted presentation continude until the mourning period that lasted until September 30.

Dubai’s 10-day mourning period began on September 21, with flags flown at half-mast across the emirate.

Sheikh Ahmed, the younger brother of Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, died on September 21 at the age of 76. He was laid to rest at Umm Hurair Cemetery in Dubai the following day.

A popular Downtown Dubai attraction

The Dubai Fountain draws residents and tourists with choreographed displays of water, music and light against the backdrop of Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall.

The attraction reopened on October 1, 2025, after a five-month renovation. Its return followed upgrades to the fountain’s systems, renewing one of Downtown Dubai’s most recognisable visitor experiences.

Before the recent suspension, the fountain typically held afternoon performances and evening shows at 30-minute intervals between 6pm and 11pm. ICA/Expat Media

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