Dubai Fountain closes during 10-day mourning period

Dubai Fountain has halted its daily performances for a 10-day mourning period following the death of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid, the youngest brother of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid. Sheikh Ahmed served as Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police, group chairman of ARM Holding, a private UAE investment firm, and President of Al Wasl Sports Club.

The cancellation was announced by a customer service representative for Dubai Mall on Tuesday. The mourning period began on Monday after the death of Sheikh Ahmed, a significant figure in Dubai's growth. It will conclude on Wednesday, September 30, with flags at half-mast at government buildings across the emirate. During official mourning periods, live entertainment typically ceases, radio stations often substitute regular programming with prayers or Quranic recitations, and state-owned television channels adopt a similar approach.

Malls in the Emirates usually play somber music, and concerts and other live events may be suspended or rescheduled. Funeral prayers are scheduled for Tuesday at Zabeel Grand Mosque, with mourners gathering from 1pm. Condolences are being accepted at the Zabeel Majlis for three days. Sheikh Mohammed expressed his grief on social media, stating, "You are absent from our eyes, but not from our prayers and hearts."

President Sheikh Mohamed also paid tribute to his brother, acknowledging his contributions to the UAE's development. "I extend my sincere condolences to Mohammed bin Rashid on the passing of his brother Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, whose long-standing contributions to the development of the UAE since its founding continue to inspire our nation’s journey of progress," Sheikh Mohamed wrote on X. "May God rest his soul in eternal peace and mercy, and grant his loved ones comfort during this difficult time."

The Dubai Fountain, located in the 12-hectare Burj Lake between Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, typically features afternoon and evening shows every 30 minutes from 6pm to 11pm. It can launch water up to 152 meters high and showcases 6,600 lights and 25 color projectors, with performances choreographed to Arabic and international music.

The attraction opened in 2009 and was designed by Wet Design, the US company responsible for the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas.