Located in the United Arab Emirates, the city of Dubai is one of the leaders in large-scale urban development in the Middle East as well as the world. The Dubai Marina project may be the world’s largest manmade marina, drawing its water from the Persian Gulf. The water feature, located in a public plaza adjacent to the boardwalk, situates itself in the center of a mixed-use urban environment. The surrounding high-rise and mid-rise towers are programmed for both residential and retail use.

Working with local Dubai property developer, EMAAR, WET Design conceived a water feature design that addresses the various functions of this centrally located public space. The completed feature opened to the public in February 2004.

Viewed from above the adjacent towers, the vibrantly colored mosaic tiles lining the basin form intricate patterns in the local style. The intricacies of the tile work are equally impressive when viewed up close. A high pressure jet of water emits from a large centrally located circular nozzle and glides over the tiled surface. The jet of water displaces the existing water in the basin, creating a wave expression called a WaterIrisä. The wave of the WaterIris oscillates back and forth from the center of the basin before crashing into a trough concealed within the feature’s perimeter bench. Eight brightly lit vertical columns of water pulse skyward from the center of the feature, reaching heights of forty feet. The feature also provides an entertaining centerpiece for the surrounding retail shops and restaurants.

Emerging from a system of open joint paving, one hundred playful jets of water pulse from the plaza surface in choreographed sequences. Arranged in four semi-circular bands, these water expressions provide ample opportunity for interaction by the younger residents of the Dubai Marina.