Dubai Fountain Suspends Daily Shows During 10-Day Mourning Period for Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid

The famous Dubai Fountain has suspended its daily performances during the emirate's 10-day mourning period for Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid, the youngest brother of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai.

Sheikh Ahmed served as Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police, group chairman of ARM Holding, a UAE private investment firm, and President of Al Wasl Sports Club. A customer service representative for Dubai Mall confirmed to The National that the popular Downtown Dubai attraction would remain closed throughout the mourning period.

Dubai began its 10-day mourning period on Monday following the passing of Sheikh Ahmed, a key figure in the development of the emirate. The mourning period continues until Wednesday, September 30, with flags flown at half-mast across government buildings in the emirate. Official mourning protocols generally include the suspension of live entertainment, adjustments to radio and television programming, the playing of sombre music in malls, and the postponement of concerts and public gatherings.

The Dubai Media Office reported that Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid passed away on September 21. Funeral prayers are scheduled for Tuesday at Zabeel Grand Mosque, with condolences to be received at the Zabeel Majlis for three days.

Expressing his grief on social media, Sheikh Mohammed wrote: "You are absent from our eyes, but not from our prayers and hearts." President Sheikh Mohamed also paid tribute to Sheikh Ahmed, highlighting his enduring contributions to the nation's progress since its founding.

Located on the 12-hectare Burj Lake between Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain normally hosts afternoon shows and evening performances every 30 minutes from 6pm to 11pm. Created by Wet Design, the attraction features powerful water jets, thousands of lights, and colour projectors synchronized to music.