King Fahd's Fountain, Water fountain in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
King Fahd's Fountain is a fountain in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, that shoots seawater from the Red Sea into the air, reaching a height of 312 meters. The system relies on three pumps that push saltwater through specialized nozzles to form a jet visible from several kilometers away on clear days.
The structure was built between 1980 and 1983 as a gift to the city of Jeddah. King Fahd commissioned the project during a broader effort to modernize the coastal area, which at that time saw the creation of several parks and promenades.
The structure bears the name of King Fahd, who was the first Saudi monarch to adopt the title Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and commissioned several public works throughout Jeddah. Families now gather along the waterfront in the evening to watch the jet rise above the Red Sea, often bringing picnics and sitting on benches facing the water.
The best view of the jet comes from public areas along the Corniche, particularly after dark when floodlights illuminate the stream. Those visiting during the day should note that the fountain sometimes shuts down during strong winds or maintenance periods.
The seawater used contains salt and minerals that would damage the nozzles and pipes without regular maintenance. Engineers had to develop special materials and filters to prevent corrosion from the aggressive saltwater.
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