Fountain Show Guide: Where to Catch the Best Water Displays

If you love watching water dance to music, you’re in the right place. Fountain shows are free, stunning, and perfect for a quick night out. Below you’ll get the exact times, spots, and hacks to enjoy the biggest spectacles in Dubai and London.

Dubai's Iconic Fountain Spectacle

The Dubai Fountain at the Burj Khalifa Lake is the star of the city’s night scene. Shows start every 30 minutes after sunset, usually at 6 pm, 6:30 pm, 7 pm, and continue until 11 pm. On weekends the schedule adds a late‑night show at 11:30 pm. The water jets shoot up to 150 m, syncing perfectly with pop hits and classical tunes.

Best viewing tip: grab a spot on the lower promenade early, especially on Fridays. The area fills up fast, and the best angles are right in front of the lake, near the souvenir stalls. If you want a seat and a snack, the restaurants along the waterfront offer a view from their terraces—just order a coffee and enjoy the show.

Another hidden gem is the fountain display at The Dubai Mall’s Fashion Avenue. It’s smaller but runs every hour on the hour, making it an easy add‑on when you’re shopping. No tickets needed, just walk in and watch.

London's Hidden Fountain Gems

London may not have a massive tower fountain, but its smaller water features pack a punch. The most famous is the Crown Fountain at the Royal Festival Hall, which stages a light‑and‑water show every evening from 7 pm to 9 pm in summer. The choreography uses colored LEDs that change with the music, creating a relaxed vibe after a day of sightseeing.

For something truly free and off the radar, head to the Queen’s Fountain in Green Park. Every Thursday during summer, a local orchestra sets up and plays a short set while the fountain lights up. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or a quick photo break.

Don’t miss the iconic Thames River fireworks, which include a brief fountain projection on the Southbank during major holidays. Arrive early, claim a spot on the riverbank benches, and you’ll get a view of the water, lights, and skyline all at once.

Quick tips for London: bring a light jacket—even summer evenings get chilly near the water. Use the free Wi‑Fi in Southbank’s public areas to check for last‑minute schedule changes. And remember, most fountain shows are free, so you can see several in one night without spending a penny.

Whether you’re in Dubai’s glittering desert or London’s historic riverside, a fountain show adds instant magic to any evening. Check the timings before you go, arrive a little early for the best spot, and let the water do the talking. Enjoy the show!