When Dubai launched its iconic dancing fountain in 2009, Downtown Dubai became more than just a cluster of towers  it became a global destination. Within months, property values near the Burj Khalifa jumped, short-term rentals began commanding 20–35% higher nightly rates, and investors quickly learned that being next to an attraction wasn’t just about views , it was about returns.

Now, Abu Dhabi is about to have its own “Downtown Dubai moment.”
Mubadala’s new AI-powered fountain show and glowing 30-meter sphere on Al Maryah Island isn’t just another tourist attraction. It could reshape the island’s property market, particularly for investors eyeing capital appreciation and short-term rental yields.

The new Al Maryah attraction , designed by WET, the creators of the Dubai Fountain and Bellagio’s water show combines over 1,000 AI-choreographed water jets reaching 75 meters high, music composed by Game of Thrones composer Ramin Djawadi, and a luminous orb that will become a visual icon for Abu Dhabi.

But beyond the spectacle, it positions Al Maryah Island as a must-visit hub for tourists and residents alike, adding weight to its existing luxury offerings (The Galleria mall, Four Seasons, Rosewood, and upcoming dining/event spaces).

Lessons from Dubai and Beyond

Landmark attractions have a track record of directly boosting nearby real estate.

1. - Downtown Dubai (Dubai Fountain)
   After the fountain’s debut, apartments with fountain views sold and rented at a 10–20% premium compared to similar layouts in Business Bay.
   Airbnb operators routinely achieved occupancy rates 15% higher than city averages.
2. - Palm Jumeirah & The Pointe (Fountain Show)
   The Pointe’s fountain drew heavy nightlife and tourist footfall, helping nearby serviced apartments increase short-term rental demand and rates.
3. - Marina Bay Sands, Singapore (Light & Water Show)
   Condos within walking distance of the nightly shows consistently command 20–30% higher nightly rates on platforms like Airbnb, fueled by repeat tourist interest.
4. - Bellagio Fountains, Las Vegas
   While a hotel-driven example, surrounding residential units with direct views or proximity became highly sought-after, with higher resale and rental premiums.

What This Means for Al Maryah Property Investors

1. - Short-Term Rental Boom
   Al Maryah already attracts high-net-worth visitors thanks to its luxury hotels, dining, and financial district.
   The fountain show will create a nighttime magnet, meaning serviced apartments and Airbnb-ready units could see a significant spike in demand and nightly rates — particularly for visitors from Dubai and international tourists.
2. - Capital Appreciation Potential
   As we’ve seen in Downtown Dubai, proximity to a world-class attraction can drive 10–20% higher appreciation over the medium term compared to non-iconic districts.
3. - Prestige Factor for Resale
   Properties marketed as “fountain-facing” or “steps from Abu Dhabi’s most iconic night show” instantly gain a narrative that appeals to end users and investors alike.

Positioning Al Maryah as Abu Dhabi’s Cultural Core

Abu Dhabi has been aggressively expanding its appeal as a global lifestyle hub, with Louvre Abu Dhabi, the upcoming Disneyland at Yas Island, and now this AI-powered fountain and waterfront redevelopment.

For investors, the message is clear: owning near Al Maryah Island isn’t just a property purchase , it’s a stake in Abu Dhabi’s emerging cultural core.

If you’re considering an investment:

1. - Look at serviced apartments and hotel apartments with easy access to the waterfront.
2. - Prioritize fountain-view units where available  these carry a long-term premium.
3. - For short-term rentals, focus on furnished, ready-to-move-in units that can be listed immediately when the fountain launches.

Want to explore high-yield properties near Al Maryah Island?
Our team specializes in identifying investment-grade apartments and serviced residences poised to benefit from Abu Dhabi’s newest landmark.