The Dubai Mall Waterfall is a work of art that immediately captures the attention of visitors, not only for its imposing size, but also for its beauty and the meaning it represents. Located in the heart of the Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest shopping and entertainment destinations, this artistic waterfall spans all four levels of the mall, creating a breathtaking visual experience for anyone who observes it.
The work is composed of sculpted human figures that appear to be diving into the water, representing the diversity and dynamism of life itself. Each figure is crafted to appear in motion, adding a sense of vitality and movement to the entire structure. The waterfall is not only a landmark for visitors, but it is also a symbol of the ambition and innovation that characterize Dubai.
The history of the Dubai Mall Waterfall dates back to the construction of the Dubai Mall itself, when it was conceived as an integral part of the overall shopping center experience. Since then, it has become one of its most photographed and admired attractions, as well as a popular meeting point for locals, being easy to locate. If you pass by the Dubai Mall, don’t miss giving it a look: it is located just a few steps away from the mall’s main attractions, such as the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo and the Fashion Avenue.
What you will find in this guide to Dubai Mall Waterfall:
Dubai Mall Waterfall: History and Interesting Facts
The Dubai Mall Waterfall, also known as the Human Waterfall or simply the Dubai Waterfall, is a spectacular fountain that mimics a waterfall. It is adorned with a series of human diver sculptures, lending an incredible sense of dynamism and realism to the rhythmic flow of the water. It should not be confused with the Dubai Fountain, which is located outside the Dubai Mall at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, nor with other waterfalls in Dubai, such as those along the Dubai Water Canal. More than a waterfall in the strict sense, this is an indoor fountain and one of the most famous works of art adorning the Dubai Mall.
The Dubai Mall Waterfall was installed in 2009, a few months after the opening of the Dubai Mall. It was designed by the Singapore-based architectural firm DP Architects, who also designed the entire Dubai Mall.
The waterfall spans all four levels of the Dubai Mall, standing four stories high. It has a circular shape, with a diameter of over 30 meters, and consists of two cylindrical structures, each 7.5 meters high and 30.5 meters in diameter. Water cascades down these cylinders, creating a visual spectacle that captivates both visitors and locals. Unsurprisingly, the Dubai Mall Waterfall is today one of the best-known and most fascinating landmarks for visitors to the Dubai Mall, and one of the most photographed.
Moreover, it has quickly become one of the most popular and easy-to-reach meeting places for locals and expats living in Dubai. This is because it is really easy to find inside the Dubai Mall, which in turn is centrally located and well-connected within the city. People typically meet at the foot of the fountain.
The most striking feature of the Dubai Mall Waterfall is the sculptures that adorn it: dozens of life-size statues of human divers diving along the flowing water, in a gesture that almost seems to express their freedom. Made of fiberglass, they create a sense of dynamism and realism that enhances the rhythmic flow of the water. The falling water is designed to create a visual illusion, making it seem that the divers are moving instead of the water.
The design of the Dubai Mall Waterfall is a blend of modern architecture and traditional symbolism. The cylindrical structures and the cascading water represent modern design elements, while the diving figures pay homage to the UAE’s pearl diving heritage.
Indeed, the figures diving into the water symbolize the pearl divers, a nod to one of the main sources of livelihood in the UAE before the oil boom. Pearl diving was the basis for the founding of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and the waterfall serves as a reminder of this rich heritage. This theme of blending modernity with elements that recall its past and cultural roots is recurrent in Dubai’s contemporary architecture.
Being located in one of the busiest passageways of the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Mall Waterfall is admired by thousands of people every day, and it is really easy to visit. All you need to do is take a walk in the Dubai Mall (which is obviously free to visit) and sooner or later you will arrive right in front of the waterfall, located next to one of the main exits towards the world-famous Dubai Fountain – the spectacular dancing fountain at the foot of the Burj Khalifa – and the outdoor terraces leading to the other attractions in Downtown Dubai.
How to Visit the Dubai Mall Waterfall
Visiting the Dubai Mall Waterfall is easy and free. It is located within the Dubai Mall, which is an attraction in itself, going far beyond being a shopping center and serving as an entertainment hub in Downtown Dubai. The Dubai Mall Waterfall is situated near the entrances that lead to the Waterfront Promenade and the Dubai Fountains, on the side of the Cinema Parking.
Upon entering the Dubai Mall, you can navigate towards the waterfall by following the mall’s clear signage or asking for directions from the mall staff. However, it’s quite easy to find on your own, as it’s located near the Dubai Ice Rink. It can also be easily reached from the Treasury Dome and the Dubai Aquarium: head towards the Star Atrium and the outdoor terraces, and you cannot fail to notice the Dubai Mall Waterfall, which is actually quite huge. Moreover, you can view the Dubai Mall Waterfall from any floor of the Dubai Mall, as each floor has a balcony overlooking the fountain!
The Dubai Mall Waterfall can be freely admired during the mall’s operating hours. On weekdays, you can visit from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM. On weekends, the mall extends its hours, allowing visitors to enjoy the waterfall and all the other attractions and shops from 10:00 AM until midnight.
Keep in mind that the food court closes every day at midnight, while the restaurants on the Waterfront Promenade close at 2:00 AM. Therefore, you might consider dining at one of its many restaurants and eateries. There are options for all tastes and budgets. You might want to check out our guide to the Dubai Mall Restaurants to discover our favorites.
Things to Do Near Dubai Mall Waterfall
As we’ve already mentioned, to admire the Dubai Mall Waterfall you’ll need to visit the Dubai Mall. This will be the perfect opportunity to explore it. We recommend taking a stroll around the mall even if you’re not a fan of shopping or not in the mood to make purchases, because it’s not just about shops. Here, you’ll find numerous family-friendly entertainment options and a wide range of restaurants and eateries.
Moreover, two of Dubai’s top attractions are right here: the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest skyscraper, and the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, one of the largest aquariums in the world.
Don’t miss the chance to witness the famous show of the Dubai Fountain, the spectacular dancing fountain located right next to the Dubai Mall. It stages performances of water jets, light, and sounds in the style of the dancing fountains of Las Vegas, at predetermined times. You can find the schedule and tips for the best viewing experience in our guide to the Dubai Fountain.
Planning your trip to Dubai? Check out our guide to the BEST THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN DUBAI.