Dubai Fountain closure: Thousands throng The Dubai Mall to catch final shows
Dubai: It was a sea of spectators at The Dubai Mall Waterfront Promenade on Saturday evening as thousands of residents and tourists gathered to witness the final performances of the iconic Dubai Fountain before it goes silent for a five-month renovation project.
The world-renowned fountain, which has dazzled millions since its launch in 2009, delivered a breathtaking series of final shows—drawing emotions, applause, and a sense of nostalgia from some of the spectators.
Crowds began building up hours before the evening shows, with visitors lining the waterfront promenade, adjacent bridges, and even the nearby Souk Al Bahar and Burj Park to secure a good view for free.
It was also the last opportunity to experience the show up close—by purchasing tickets to access the exclusive fountain platform on Dubai Fountain Boardwalk and go for a traditional abra boat ride on the Burj Lake.
'I've seen the Dubai Fountain many times, but tonight felt special. It's like saying so long till we see you again,' said Indian expat Mubashir K, a UAE resident for 10 years.
The civil engineer living in Dubai brought his wife Rinsha, who is on a one-month visit, to watch the final shows.
In Dubai for her second visit, Rinsha is currently doing her Bachelor of Education back home.
'Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain are among our favourite places to hang out when I am here in Dubai and I am glad I could be here tonight to see the last shows of this amazing fountain,' said Rinsha.
The tallest performing fountain in the world, set on the 30-acre Burj Lake, is known for its choreographed water jets that dance to a mix of classical, Arabic, and international music.
Lucky visitors
Bernd Cruno, a tourist from Germany who is on a week-long holiday in Dubai with his wife and son, said they reached Dubai on Friday night and decided to visit Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain on Saturday itself.
'In fact, we didn't know it was the last day of the Dubai Fountain show tonight. We got to know it after reaching here at the promenade. It's a once-in-a-lifetime kind of show. We are lucky we didn't miss it before the break,' said Cruno, a lab assistant in Germany.
Serbian sisters born and raised in Switzerland, Mitic Saska and Mitic Sandra, were also among the thousands of tourists who got lucky to catch the show right in time.
'I had heard about the closure some days ago. But I totally forgot about it. When we got here again today, I got reminded of it and I am so glad we are here,' said Saska.
'It is a beautiful show. We are definitely taking lots of pix and videos,' added Sandra.
Both bankers, working in different departments of the same bank, the sisters said they would spread the word about the temporary closure of the fountain on social media as well.
Last day's tracks
While some popular tracks that were regularly played included Michael Jackson's Thriller, Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman's Time to Say Goodbye, and Power by Korean pop band EXO, the last day's playlist was slightly different.
Saturday's shows featured a selection of the popular tracks, including Skyfall by Adele, which began with 'This is the end.'
Another track to which the water jets danced was Ain't No Mountain High Enough by Speed of Yellow, while Ya Ana Ya La by Amr Diab enthralled lovers of Arabic music. However, it was when the viral children's song Baby Shark was played that several children and adults were seen shaking their legs. Some fathers were seen dancing with their children on their shoulders.
As the final performances ended with a spectacular crescendo of lights, music, and towering water jets, the crowd erupted in applause, many recording videos and taking selfies with the iconic Burj Khalifa in the background.
What next?
While Emaar, the developer behind the Dubai Fountain, has not revealed full details of the upgrades, it earlier said that the revamp would involve advanced technological enhancements and maintenance of the fountain infrastructure.
The new and improved show is expected to debut in October, promising an elevated visual experience with advanced technology, improved choreography, and an enhanced sound and lighting system to make the experience more immersive.
'I used to live in Dubai and saw the fountain for the first time 10 years ago and came here last seven years ago when I moved to Abu Dhabi. For us UAE residents, it is just a temporary closure during the summer months. We will wait for the fountain to be back with a bang, probably breaking its own records. But tourists who are visiting in these months will miss the fountain,' said Rihan Rashid, a student in Abu Dhabi who came to watch the show with his relatives who are on a visit.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Sharjah 24
a day ago
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah builds cultural bridges between Africa and the Arab world
Amid a time when Arabic poetry faces marginalisation in parts of Africa, Sharjah's forward-thinking initiatives have restored Arabic literature to its rightful place—as a vessel of identity, a tool for dialogue, and a platform for human expression. Coordinators praised the vision behind the Arabic Poetry Forums in Africa—an initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah—which has marked the beginning of a new cultural era across the continent. These forums have given hundreds of poets opportunities for visibility, documentation, and publication through structured programmes led by Sharjah's Department of Culture in collaboration with local cultural bodies. Coordinators in nine African nations—Mali, Chad, Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, South Sudan, Benin, and Côte d'Ivoire—shared updates on preparations for the fourth edition of the poetry forums, set to begin this month. Plans are underway for expanded poet participation and accompanying cultural events. Reviving the Arabic language through poetry Dr Abdelkader Idriss Mega, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Mali, described Sharjah's initiative as a pioneering model that reflects the wide-reaching cultural vision of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. He noted that the initiative is more than just a poetry festival—it is a genuine platform for reviving the Arabic language in historically Arabic-speaking communities. Dr Mega highlighted the forums' role in elevating poetry as a cultural force in Mali, a country where African depth intersects with Arab-Islamic heritage. 'Sharjah's support represents a living example of Afro-Arab cultural integration, and a genuine embodiment of His Highness's vision for building literary bridges across the region,' he said. 'It has granted African poets a worthy platform, embraced their talents, and nurtured creativity in a respectful, professional atmosphere.' He emphasised the clear impact: a vibrant poetry movement, an interactive cultural space blending authenticity and openness, and a rejuvenated local cultural scene that had long suffered from stagnation. Looking ahead to Mali's fourth poetry forum Dr Mega stated that Mali's Arabic Poetry Forum continues to grow in terms of organisation, content, and participation. The number of poets has doubled this year, drawing a rich mix of emerging and established voices from across the country. The fourth edition will welcome between 15 and 20 poets from Bamako and other regions. What sets this edition apart is the broader participation and more diverse poetic styles, alongside growing public interest. The forum has drawn the attention of prominent figures, intellectuals, academics, university students, and media professionals, giving it greater cultural and institutional weight. The accompanying programme includes poetry readings, literary discussions, and workshops on Arabic poetic techniques, in addition to interactive sessions between poets and the public—fostering cultural exchange and deepening aesthetic appreciation for poetry. Cultural renewal through Sharjah's literary vision Dr Ahmed Abou El Fath Othman, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Chad, described Sharjah's support for Arabic poetry in Africa as a shining example of Arab cultural integration. He praised the leadership of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah for reinforcing the Arabic language and culture across both Arabic-speaking regions and beyond. He noted that the poetry forums, organised by the Department of Culture in Sharjah, have contributed to shaping a renewed cultural landscape by creating spaces for creative exchange and restoring poetry's role as a tool of expression, awareness, and identity-building. The upcoming fourth edition of the poetry forum in Chad, according to Dr Abou El Fath, marks a significant milestone. While 32 poets participated last year, this year's forum is expected to feature over 40 poets, selected from more than 200 submissions. The selection criteria focus on high-calibre classical Arabic poetry. This year's edition is noteworthy for bringing together poets from various regions of Chad on a single platform to share their work with an engaged and appreciative audience. The forum has also opened doors for emerging voices, with many young and aspiring poets seizing this opportunity to prove their talent. Dr Abou El Fath highlighted that some of these poets, after participating in the Chad forum, went on to take part in international poetry gatherings—raising their country's profile on broader cultural stages. He affirmed that none of this would have been possible without Sharjah's generous and strategic support for Arabic culture in Africa. 'We extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Sharjah, a beacon of knowledge and creativity, for continually championing Arab literary excellence and broadening its horizons,' he said. A deep encouragement for African Arabic poetry Dr Kaba Imran, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Guinea, expressed how African Arabic poetry is now "breathing freely" again, receiving recognition and honour from an Arab nation—specifically from His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. 'This is a profound source of encouragement for a form of poetry that had long been absent from the African cultural scene,' he said. He noted that the fourth edition of the forum will welcome many new poets. Previously, participation was limited to poets from the capital region, but now, the event draws poets from across all regions of Guinea and even from outside the country. Thanks to the forum, many poets have gained new confidence in their talent and literary voice—especially first-time participants. Dr Imran confirmed that these gatherings have inspired poets with ambitious new horizons and a growing cultural awareness with meaningful impact. Celebrating poetic beauty in Niger Dr Amadou Ali Ibrahim, cultural coordinator in Niger, hailed Sharjah as a cultural capital that continues to celebrate the enduring power of poetry, thanks to the unwavering support of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. He said the Arabic poetry forums in Africa have been a resounding literary success from the start, leaving a clear cultural imprint across the continent and growing stronger with each edition. Dr Ibrahim expressed hope that this year's forum in Niger will spotlight new poetic talents and attract a larger audience, particularly among Arabic language students in the country. As in previous years, the event will feature two poetry sessions enriched by critical commentary—offering aesthetic insights into the poems—and a literary lecture exploring the Arabic language and its social dimensions within Niger. He is optimistic that this edition will see a stronger poetic presence, not only in the number of poets attending from across the country but also in the strength and beauty of the Arabic poems being shared. 'The forum has become a stage for Niger's promising poetic voices to shine and grow,' he said. Enrichment and empowerment in Nigeria Dr Omar Adam, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Nigeria, highlighted the profound impact of Sharjah's support—under the guidance of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah—on enriching the cultural scene across Africa. Through the forums, a deeper appreciation for the Arabic language and its literary traditions has taken root in multiple African nations. He noted that this support has enabled poets to refine their craft, moving beyond traditional forms to embrace modern poetic techniques aligned with global literary currents. The upcoming fourth edition of the poetry forum in Nigeria marks a significant cultural moment, building on the success of previous editions and further promoting Arabic poetry and cross-cultural dialogue. Thanks to financial and institutional backing from Sharjah's Department of Culture, several Nigerian poets have published Arabic poetry collections—many for the first time—showcasing a flourishing literary presence in the country. 'This year, we've witnessed an unprecedented number of applications, surpassing those of all previous editions combined,' said Dr Adam. 'It's a clear sign of how deeply these forums have energised the creative spirit and helped develop local poetic talent.' He added that the forum, supported by Sharjah, has spotlighted poetic voices from all regions of Nigeria. 'What began as a symbolic initiative has now become a dynamic platform for Nigerian poets, including those who are not native Arabic speakers, to share their work and connect with the wider Arab literary world. This effort not only preserves heritage but also drives forward a new wave of poetic creativity rooted in rich literary traditions.' Beyond boundaries: Côte d'Ivoire celebrates Arabic verse Dr Bamba Issiaka, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Côte d'Ivoire, said Sharjah's cultural initiative transcends borders and languages, empowering genuine creativity through sustained support, openness to new voices, and a dynamic blend of literary creation and critique. He affirmed that the forums serve as a model for cultural collaboration, showing that poetry still holds the power to build bridges and reshape collective awareness. 'The Arabic Poetry Forum has become a major annual cultural event in Côte d'Ivoire, eagerly anticipated by the public,' he said, citing strong participation from university students and the emergence of talented young poets. According to Dr Issiaka, Sharjah's support does more than offer financial assistance—it maps out a long-term vision for Arabic poetry in Africa. The fourth edition of the forum, he noted, will mark a qualitative leap in the country's cultural scene, with new voices and cities taking part, reflecting the forum's continued growth and expanding reach. A cultural continuum in South Sudan Dr Mohammed Maj Riak, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in South Sudan, described Sharjah's backing of Arabic poetry in Africa as part of a broader cultural vision that embraces creativity in all its forms. This support, he said, helps reaffirm the value of poetry as a means of expressing identity and collective memory. He noted that the forums have added significant value to South Sudan's cultural landscape. 'For this year's edition, we've widened participation to include poets from different generations and schools of thought, with a discerning and appreciative audience engaging closely with the sessions,' said Dr Riak. The accompanying events will include literary workshops, critical forums, and public discussions to enhance interaction between poets and audiences. He stressed that the initiative has played a pivotal role in bringing attention to lesser-known voices and given them opportunities to connect with leading figures from the Arab literary world—broadening their cultural horizons and artistic growth. Tangible momentum in Senegal Dr Mohamed El Hadi Sall, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Senegal, described Sharjah's patronage of Arabic poetry in Africa as a pioneering initiative rooted in a genuine belief in the power of words and their role in bridging cultures. He noted that the support went beyond financial assistance—it was a powerful moral boost that helped elevate local cultural identity and revive interest in Arabic poetry. 'The forums supported by Sharjah created real cultural momentum,' Dr Sall said. 'They opened new spaces for expression and dialogue, allowing a broader audience to engage with poets and their work.' He added that the fourth edition brings greater energy and diversity, with poets from various schools and experiences, along with a rich cultural programme including poetry readings, critical discussions, and parallel artistic performances. 'This year's audience is more engaged and informed than ever, which reflects a growing connection between the public and poetic expression. The event has also drawn strong attention from the cultural community, media, and social networks—clear proof that the forum has become a major annual cultural highlight.' Sustained support in Benin Dr Ibrahim Ogboun, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Benin, said that no discussion of Arabic poetry in Africa today would be complete without acknowledging the vital role of Sharjah. Through its thoughtful cultural initiatives, the emirate has consistently supported the written word and strengthened its presence in the public sphere. He explained that Sharjah's support has evolved into a comprehensive cultural project, offering renewed energy to literary platforms across the continent. 'The poetry forums held under Sharjah's patronage are not seasonal events,' Dr Ogboun stressed. 'They have become a genuine driver of the poetic scene, offering space for experimentation, dialogue, and public engagement.' Speaking about the fourth edition, he added: 'With strong attendance and a wide variety of participants, the forum in Benin is moving confidently toward establishing itself as a leading cultural event in the country. This year's edition will stand out in both format and content, with a larger number of poets and a dynamic series of events including poetry evenings, critical sessions, and open dialogues between creators and a poetry-hungry audience.' Sharjah's initiative, he said, has opened new doors for local poets and introduced fresh voices to the broader Arab poetic tradition. 'The forum has become a true platform for discovering talent and exchanging experiences. Many poets have spoken about how this opportunity transformed their work—whether through new publishing avenues or invitations to take part in Arab literary festivals.'
Gulf Today
3 days ago
- Gulf Today
What is Ananya Panday day dreaming about while sweating it out in the gym?
Bollywood actress Ananya Panday took to social media to reveal what she's been daydreaming about at the gym. Taking to Instagram, the 'Student of the Year' actress shared a series of photos and captioned it, 'At the gym but day dreaming of other things.' The first image shows Ananya taking a selfie at the gym, where she is seen flaunting her washboard abs. In the next shot, she looks glamorous in an off-shoulder dress. Other images feature plants arranged on a balcony, a building, sweet delicacies, an airplane, a swimming pool, and a stunning, peaceful night view of the sea. Ananya Panday also uses Instagram to share professional updates. On June 2, she announced the release date of her upcoming film, 'Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri.' She posted a picture of herself and co-star Kartik Aaryan sharing a kiss behind an Indian passport. The romantic drama 'Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri' is slated to hit theatres on Feb.13, 2026. The film reunites Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday, who last shared screen space in the 2019 hit 'Pati Patni Aur Woh.' Notably, this project also signifies a fresh beginning for Kartik and Dharma Productions, following their past fallout over 'Dostana 2.' With this film, Karan Johar and Kartik Aaryan appear to have moved past their differences, signaling a renewed professional relationship. Ananya was last seen playing the role of lawyer Dilreet Gill in 'Kesari Chapter 2,' which also featured Akshay Kumar and R. Madhavan. Her portrayal of a lawyer earned appreciation from both critics and audiences, who commended the conviction and nuance she brought to the character. This was the first time Panday appeared in a non-glamorous avatar. Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi and produced by Dharma Productions, the historical drama was adapted from the book 'The Case That Shook The Empire,' which focuses on C. Sankaran Nair and the tragic Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919. Meanwhile, Ananya paid a heartfelt tribute to her father, Chunky Panday during the 23rd edition of the Zee Cine Awards. The diva left her dad surprised with a heartfelt performance, which she had been planning with her mother, Bhavana Pandey. During the performance, Ananya was joined by Chunky as they tapped a foot together on his popular track, 'Main Tera Tota' from the 1989 drama 'Paap Ki Duniya'. The father and daughter duo set the stage on fire with their scintillating chemistry. Their wholesome performance even left Bhavana teary-eyed. Talking about her special performance, Ananya said, 'I've grown up watching my dad light up people's lives with his work, and this performance was my way of saying thank you — not just to him as an artist, but as the incredible father who's always been my biggest supporter. Mom and I had been planning this surprise for so long and keeping it, a secret wasn't easy! Every time I rehearsed at home, he'd walk by looking confused, wondering what I was up to. Seeing his reaction tonight made it all worth it.' Indo-Asian News Service
Web Release
4 days ago
- Web Release
Celebrate Eid Al-Adha with Läderach's Handcrafted Swiss Chocolate Collections
This Eid Al-Adha, celebrate the spirit of giving with Läderach's elegant selection of handcrafted Swiss chocolates, offered in beautifully curated Eid trays and customizable gift boxes that bring a refined touch to every occasion. With over 60 years of chocolate-making expertise, Läderach combines tradition, quality, and artistry to create gifts that are as memorable as they are delicious. Each creation is made using cocoa mass produced in-house, ensuring a rich, responsible chocolate experience from bean to bar. Läderach's dedication to craftsmanship shines through in its signature Eid trays, adorned with subtle Arabic-inspired details and filled with an irresistible variety of flavors, including Brazil 70% Dark, Hazelnut Dark, Pistachio Dark, 3 Nuts Milk-Dark, Classic Milk, Raspberry, Blackberry White, Blackberry Dark, Cornflakes Milk, and Almond Milk. Available in various sizes and fully customizable, these trays are perfect for sharing, celebrating, and gifting. For a more personal touch, explore Läderach's customized chocolate boxes, where you can handpick your favorite pralines and slabs from a wide selection. Beautifully arranged in complimentary packaging, each box can be tailored in size and style to suit everything from intimate moments to grand festive gatherings. For something truly special, the Fresh Chocolate Wooden Box offers a luxurious assortment of beloved flavors in an elegant, keepsake presentation. Location: -Abu Dhabi: World Trade Centre, Yas Mall, Bawabat Al Sharq Mall, The Galleria Al Maryah Island & Zayed International Airport. -Dubai: The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates & Mirdif City Centre. -Sharjah: City Centre Al Zahia.
