King fahd fountain

The King Fahd Fountain in Jeddah is the world's tallest, shooting seawater 312 meters into the air.

About this subject

Located on the Red Sea in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the King Fahd Fountain is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Inaugurated in 1985 and named after the reigning king, it stands 312 meters tall, surpassing any other fountain in the world, including the famous Fountain of Genoa and Geneva's Jet d'Eau. Its construction required advanced engineering to withstand saltwater corrosion and coastal winds.

The fountain is powered by powerful pumps that propel 625 liters of water per second at supersonic speeds. At night, over 500 spotlights illuminate it, creating a spectacle visible for miles. Constant maintenance is needed as sea salt quickly damages the nozzles, requiring periodic replacement.

Culturally, the King Fahd Fountain symbolizes Saudi Arabia's modern development and is a popular meeting point for locals and tourists. Its location in Jeddah's harbor makes it a visual guide for sailors. Although not accessible for swimming, it attracts visitors who photograph the monumental water jet against the Red Sea horizon.

Interesting fact: the fountain's height varies with weather conditions, reducing on windy days to prevent water from being blown into urban areas. The original design targeted 300 meters, but later adjustments increased the maximum reach.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the exact height of the King Fahd Fountain?

The King Fahd Fountain stands 312 meters tall, making it the tallest fountain in the world, surpassing the Fountain of Genoa (260 m) and Geneva's Jet d'Eau (140 m).

How does the fountain work with seawater?

Water is pumped directly from the Red Sea. The system uses high-powered pumps that shoot water at supersonic speeds, and the nozzles are made of corrosion-resistant materials.

Is the fountain illuminated at night?

Yes, over 500 spotlights illuminate the water jet at night, creating a colorful spectacle visible from far distances.