The first stage of the project saw the 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake drained in April, leaving Downtown Dubai almost unrecognisable. Since then, crews have replaced the fountain’s cracked flooring with new concrete better suited for water insulation and have begun refilling the lake – a sign that reopening is on track.
When the shows resume, visitors can expect more than just a familiar spectacle. The upgrades include new choreography, enhanced sound and lighting, and advanced technology that will use robotics to control water movement and synchronise it with music and visuals. The result promises to elevate the nightly performances even further, with jets still capable of shooting 22,000 gallons of water up to 140 metres high.
During the closure, the promenade around Dubai Mall and Souk Al Bahar has been animated by 500 metres of digital screens, while terrace restaurants have had their rents waived to offset the loss of fountain footfall. Emaar says the measures are part of its commitment to supporting partners through the transition.