The Most Expensive Fountain Installations of the Last Decade

1. The Dubai Fountain – Dubai, UAE

Cost: $218 million

Undoubtedly one of the most famous fountains in the world, the Dubai Fountain was constructed at the base of the Burj Khalifa, in the heart of Downtown Dubai. Completed in 2009, its extensive renovations and technological upgrades over the last decade have further elevated its status.

Features:

Spanning over 900 feet, the Dubai Fountain is the largest choreographed water display in the world.
It features over 6,600 lights and 50 color projectors, synchronized with a diverse music selection, ranging from classical to contemporary hits.

Water jets shoot up to 500 feet in the air, creating mesmerizing patterns visible from miles away.
The sheer scale and frequent upgrades contribute to its enormous cost, maintaining its status as one of the most expensive fountain installations in modern history.

2. The Bellagio Fountains – Las Vegas, USA

Cost: $40 million (initial cost); additional millions in renovations

Located in front of the Bellagio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, the Bellagio Fountains remain one of the city’s top attractions. Though constructed in 1998, substantial renovations over the last decade—including updated LED lighting, new jets, and enhanced synchronization technology—have propelled its cost well into the multimillion-dollar range.

Features:

• A total of 1,214 water jets create intricate choreography set to music from famous artists like Frank Sinatra and The Beatles.
• Water can reach heights of up to 460 feet.
• Over 4,500 lights illuminate the show every night.
• The Bellagio Fountains continue to set the standard for commercial water features, influencing modern fountain designs worldwide.

3. KKL Luzern Water Light Festival Fountain – Lucerne, Switzerland

Cost: Estimated $25 million

The KKL Luzern Water Light Festival Fountain, completed in 2019, is a stunning fusion of water, light, and sound. Located on Lake Lucerne, this installation represents Switzerland’s commitment to blending environmental consciousness with cutting-edge technology.

Features:

• Uses a sophisticated projection mapping system to display intricate light patterns on the water.
• Synchronizes water movement with orchestral performances at the KKL Luzern concert hall.
• Features 3D holographic projections, creating the illusion of floating visuals above the water.
• This fountain’s technological sophistication makes it one of the most expensive and advanced water features in Europe.

4. The Okada Manila Fountain – Manila, Philippines

Cost: $30 million

Unveiled in 2017, the Okada Manila Fountain was designed to rival some of the world’s most famous fountains, and it has succeeded in doing just that. Inspired by the grandeur of Dubai’s water displays, this fountain has become a major attraction in Southeast Asia.

Features:

• Covers 37,000 square meters, making it one of the largest dancing fountains in the world.
• Features a mix of LED lights, music, and laser projection.
• Water reaches heights of up to 160 feet, creating stunning visual spectacles.
• The Okada Manila Fountain demonstrates how Asian luxury developments are investing heavily in water-based entertainment.

5. The Pointe Fountain – Dubai, UAE

Cost: $23 million

Dubai, already home to some of the world’s most extravagant fountains, added another record-breaking installation in 2020: The Pointe Fountain at Palm Jumeirah. This floating fountain boasts remarkable technological and environmental features.
Features:

• Holds the Guinness World Record for the largest choreographed fountain in the world.
• Features 7,500 nozzles and a water projection range of 14,000 square meters.
• Runs on an energy-efficient system, reducing its carbon footprint despite its massive scale.
• With Dubai’s continuous push for luxury experiences, The Pointe Fountain stands as a testament to the city’s ambitious vision.

6. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda Fountain – Xi’an, China

Cost: Estimated $20 million

Located in one of China’s most historic cities, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda Fountain is a stunning modern interpretation of traditional Chinese culture.

Features:

• The largest musical fountain in Asia, spanning 110,000 square meters.
• Integrates ancient Chinese poetry and artwork into its displays.
• Features synchronized lighting and high-pressure water jets, creating a breathtaking performance.
• This fountain represents a fusion of history and innovation, demonstrating how modern technology can enhance cultural heritage.

7. The Crown Fountain – Chicago, USA

Cost: $17 million

While not the most expensive, the Crown Fountain in Chicago remains one of the most unique installations. Designed by Spanish artist Jaume PIensa, this interactive fountain has become a cultural landmark in Millennium Park.

Features:

• Two 50-foot LED screens display video portraits of local Chicago residents.
• Water cascades down the glass towers and is ejected from the mouths of the digital faces, mimicking classic gargoyle fountains.
• A shallow reflecting pool invites visitors to walk and interact with the fountain.
• The Crown Fountain exemplifies how public art can merge with water features, creating a deeply engaging experience.

8. The Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain – Seoul, South Korea

Cost: Estimated $15 million

Completed in 2009 but upgraded in the last decade, the Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain is the world’s longest bridge fountain, stretching over 1,140 meters.

Features:

• Uses 380 nozzles to pump water directly from the Han River, reducing water waste.
• Features an LED lighting system that changes colors according to music selections.
• Sprays 190 tons of water per minute, creating a mesmerizing cascade effect.
• This environmentally friendly design shows how large-scale fountains can also prioritize sustainability.