Musical Fountain, Dilmunia Grand Canal & Marina
Transforming a 1.7 km Saltwater Canal into Bahrain's Waterfront Destination
The challenge
Dilmunia Island was envisioned as a landmark mixed-use development, combining residential communities, hospitality venues, retail destinations and public spaces within a single waterfront environment.
At the centre of the masterplan sits a 1.7 km saltwater canal. Rather than serving simply as a visual feature, the canal was intended to become a destination in its own right, bringing people together and encouraging movement throughout the development.
The challenge was to create a water experience capable of delivering visual impact across the entire canal while operating reliably in a demanding saltwater environment.
A waterfront experience at every turn
Instead of focusing on a single feature fountain, the project was designed as a collection of interconnected water experiences spanning the entire canal.
Musical fountains, dynamic water effects, interactive elements and multimedia attractions were strategically positioned throughout the development, creating moments of discovery as visitors move through the waterfront.
More than 1,200 LED fixtures bring the canal to life after dark, transforming the waterfront into a vibrant evening destination through synchronised light, water and music.
The result is a water experience that feels integrated into the destination rather than separate from it.
Delivering the project
Operating fountain systems in saltwater presents unique technical challenges, including corrosion resistance, durability and long-term maintenance requirements.
Drawing on extensive experience in marine and saltwater applications, Oase developed a solution specifically designed to perform reliably within the canal environment while maintaining the visual quality expected from a landmark attraction.
The project was delivered during the global COVID-19 pandemic, requiring close collaboration between international teams and local delivery partner M. H. Al Mahroos. Despite significant logistical challenges, installation and commissioning were completed successfully.
The results
The heart of Dilmunia Island
Today, the Grand Canal serves as one of the defining attractions of the development.
The combination of water, light and music creates a constantly evolving experience that encourages visitors to explore, gather and spend time along the waterfront. Restaurants, public spaces and retail destinations benefit from increased activity generated by the canal environment.
By day, the canal provides a relaxing and visually engaging backdrop. By night, the musical fountain performances transform the waterfront into an entertainment destination for residents and visitors alike.
A landmark waterfront destination
The completed project demonstrates how water can become the organizing element of an entire development.
Rather than acting as a standalone feature, the fountain system strengthens the identity of the destination, creates memorable visitor experiences and helps establish Dilmunia Island as one of Bahrain's most distinctive waterfront environments.
Key project highlights
1.7 km saltwater canal activation
Musical fountains and multimedia water experiences
Over 1,200 integrated LED fixtures
Canal widths ranging from 15–35 metres
Designed specifically for saltwater operation
Interactive waterfront experiences
Delivered during COVID-19 restrictions
Creates a continuous attraction connecting residential, retail and hospitality spaces
Project fact sheet
- Project name:
- Dilmunia Grand Canal & Marina
- Country:
- Bahrain
- Year completion:
- 2021
- Environment:
- Mixed-Use Development
- Fountain type:
- Musical
- Height of installation:
- Up tp 20m
- Services:
- Design, engineering, production, installation, show programming
- In collaboration with:
- M. H. Al Mahroos BSC