When you visit Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, you cannot miss King Fahd's Fountain, also known as the Jeddah Fountain. Gifted to the city by King Fahd, this impressive landmark holds the official Guinness World Record as the tallest water fountain in the world. Originally constructed between 1980 and 1983 and inspired by Geneva's famous fountain, it reached its current operational form in 1985.
You will be amazed by its incredible engineering as it blasts Red Sea saltwater into the sky. The fountain ejects water at astonishing speeds of up to 375 km/h (233 mph), reaching a staggering height of 312 meters (1,024 feet) with airborne water mass exceeding 16 tonnes (18 short tons). Look closely at the structure's base, which is thoughtfully shaped like a traditional large mabkhara.
Because of its incredible scale, you can easily spot the jet of water from throughout the vicinity of Jeddah. If you stay after dark, you will experience a captivating transformation when over 500 LED spotlights illuminate the soaring water against the night sky. The iconic site even features extreme sports history, serving as the location where Red Bull Air Force base jumper Othar Lawrence set a global record.
What to see at King Fahd's Fountain
- Official Guinness World Record holder as the world's tallest fountain
- Reaches heights up to 312 meters (1,024 feet) using Red Sea saltwater
- Features a base uniquely shaped like a large mabkhara
- Illuminated after dark by more than 500 LED spotlights
- Water propels outward at speeds reaching 375 km/h (233 mph)
Visiting tips
Plan your view for after dark so you can watch over 500 LED spotlights illuminate the soaring water.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Evening
How to get there & what’s nearby
King Fahd's Fountain is easy to reach on Jeddah’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Jeddah travel guide.
See the full Jeddah travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.