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King Fahd's Fountain
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King Fahd's Fountain, also known as the Jeddah Fountain, is the world's tallest fountain and a landmark of the city of Jeddah on the Red Sea coast. It was gifted to the city by King Fahd bin Abdulaziz and officially commissioned in 1985. The fountain ejects water at a speed of up to 375 kilometers per hour, reaching heights of approximately 260 to 312 meters depending on wind conditions. A unique technical feature is its use of saltwater directly from the Red Sea, which necessitates sophisticated anti-corrosion and anti-fouling measures. At night, the impressive water display is illuminated by over 500 high-intensity spotlights, making the fountain visible from nearly everywhere in the city. The facility is a masterpiece of hydraulic engineering, symbolizing Jeddah's modern identity as the 'Bride of the Red Sea'.
- Location: Saudi Arabia
- Top sights: Sword Roundabout · Alsalam Royal Palace · Sulaiman Mosque
- Nearby: Jeddah (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 25 | 25 | 27 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 32 | 31 | 30 | 29 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 6 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 20 | 7 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The King Fahd's Fountain in Jeddah is a public fountain viewable for free from the waterfront promenade. Direct approach is not possible.
Typical hours
The fountain typically operates daily from sunset until midnight. During the day, it may be off due to weather conditions.
Photography
Photographing the fountain is possible anytime from the promenade. Night shots are especially impressive when the fountain is lit.
Time needed
Allow 15 to 30 minutes to view the fountain from different angles. In the evening, you may stay longer.
Combine with
The fountain is near the old town Al-Balad and the Jeddah Corniche. A visit to the floating mosque is also recommended.
Getting there
The fountain is easily reachable by taxi or car along the coastal road. Parking is available near the Corniche promenade.
Insider tip
Arrive shortly before sunset to experience the sky color change behind the fountain. Bring a camera with a tripod for long exposures.
Geography
Facts
- The fountain reaches a maximum height of about 312 meters.
- Water exits the nozzles at a speed of 375 km/h.
- The facility was officially commissioned in the year 1985.
- Over 500 spotlights illuminate the fountain after dark.
- Approximately 625 liters of water are pumped into the air per second.
- The fountain operates using only filtered seawater.
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Sights in the town King Fahd's Fountain (3)
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Frequently asked questions
When does the fountain reach its highest point?
The fountain is almost constantly running and reaches its full height in the evening.
How high does the water spray?
The water reaches a height of over 260 meters.
Is entry free?
Yes, you can admire the fountain for free from the promenade.
Is the fountain lit at night?
Yes, hundreds of spotlights make the fountain a great photo opportunity at night.
What is the best spot for viewing?
The Jeddah Corniche provides the best and most direct view.
King Fahd's Fountain: where is it located?
King Fahd's Fountain is located in Saudi Arabia.
King Fahd's Fountain: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sword Roundabout, Alsalam Royal Palace, Sulaiman Mosque.
King Fahd's Fountain: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
King Fahd's Fountain: why is it worth visiting?
King Fahd's Fountain, also known as the Jeddah Fountain, is the world's tallest fountain and a landmark of the city of Jeddah on the Red Sea coast.
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