Some food and beverage (F&B) outlets at Dubai Mall and Souk Al Bahar are set to receive rental relief, as Emaar Malls Management rolls out targeted support in response to the temporary closure of the iconic Dubai Fountain.
The move specifically benefits tenants with terrace seating that overlooks the Lake and Fountain areas—prime spots that have historically drawn high foot traffic due to their scenic views and direct line of sight to the famed fountain shows.
“The move comes in light of the closure of Dubai Fountain, which has long served as a key attraction for visitors to these venues,” said a statement from Emaar Malls Management.
To help offset the anticipated dip in visitors and protect terrace-based business operations, Emaar has confirmed a four-month rent waiver for impacted tenants. This waiver will apply from June through September 2025.
“To help offset the potential impact on footfall and terrace-based dining experiences, Emaar will waive the rent for affected terrace spaces for a period of four months, from June through September 2025.”
The Dubai Fountain, long considered a must-see attraction and a cornerstone of The Dubai Mall’s leisure and entertainment offering, has now been closed for a five-month renovation and upgrade period.
“For years, Dubai Fountain and surrounding lake have contributed significantly to the popularity of these destinations,” said Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar. “As we move into a new chapter, this rent support reflects our commitment to long-term partnerships and to helping tenants navigate this transition with resilience and confidence.”
Market chatter had already suggested that affected F&B operators were in discussions with Emaar Malls Management regarding possible assistance during the downtime. The decision to provide rent relief now puts those speculations to rest.
Dubai Mall, which recorded 111 million visitors in 2024, remains one of the world’s most visited destinations. That number marks a notable increase from the 105 million visitors in 2023, underscoring its importance as a global retail and leisure hub.
For tenants, the rent relief is more than just financial support—it signals Emaar’s ongoing commitment to partnership.
“This gesture from Emaar Malls not only alleviates immediate financial concerns but also reinforces Dubai Mall’s reputation as a collaborative and inclusive visitor destination,” said George Kunnappally, Managing Director at Nando’s UAE, which operates an outlet in Dubai Mall.
“Their decision to offer rental assistance underscores a deep understanding of the challenges faced by operators and reflects a commitment towards ensuring the long-term success of the mall’s tenant ecosystem. We sincerely commend Emaar’s proactive approach in supporting F&B partners during this temporary closure of the Dubai Fountain.”
Emaar has also announced plans to roll out new initiatives aimed at enriching the visitor experience during the fountain’s closure. This includes the installation of 400 meters of digital screens across the promenade—“designed to animate the location with engaging visual content and help retailers maintain footfall during the fountain’s closure.”
“The Lake and Fountain-facing terraces have long been prized for their vibrant ambiance, offering guests front-row views of Dubai Fountain’s spectacular shows and the serene waterfront setting,” a statement added.
“With these elements having played a vital role in attracting diners and enhancing the overall visitor experience, Emaar’s gesture underscores its commitment to supporting its tenants through evolving market dynamics.”
