The fountain uses saltwater drawn from the Red Sea rather than freshwater.
It utilizes three massive 18,750-horsepower pumps to propel the water.
The design is inspired by the traditional 'mubkhar' (incense burner) shape.
The plume can reach a velocity of up to 375 kilometers per hour.
The fountain remains operational during the night to minimize evaporation and maximize visibility.
Engineers must regularly clean the nozzles to prevent salt crystal buildup from the seawater.
The fountain is visible from nearly every point along the Jeddah coastline.
King Fahad's Fountain is the tallest water jet of its kind in the world, shooting saltwater from the Red Sea into the air. It reaches heights of up to 260 meters, depending on wind conditions and maintenance. The structure is located offshore, anchored in the Red Sea opposite the Jeddah Corniche. It operates using high-pressure pumps that draw water directly from the sea. Over 500 high-intensity spotlights are positioned to illuminate the plume at night. The fountain was donated to the city of Jeddah by the late King Fahad bin Abdulaziz. It has remained a functional landmark since its inauguration in the mid-1980s.
The Al-Hamra Corniche section provides the most direct line of sight to the fountain base and plume.
View the fountain from the Corniche promenade for the best vantage point.
Check local weather reports; high wind speeds may lead to the fountain being temporarily deactivated for safety.
Bring a camera with a long-exposure setting to capture the water plume at night.
Do not attempt to swim or rent private boats to get closer to the fountain, as the restricted maritime zone is strictly enforced.
Maintain modest attire in line with Saudi public decency standards, covering shoulders and knees.
