Rather and squeezing into the overcrowded Metro's Red Line, we called an Uber that sneaked us right into an area that was just a short walk outdoors to the artificial lake near the Dubai Mall. It cost a few dollars more than transit but it was so worth the cool, easy trip. We got there when it was light, but the sunset is around 5:30 pm at this time of year in Dubai. So, we walked in the mall and saw the must see sights of the Waterfalls, Aquarium Wall, and Ice Rink.
The first fountain show started at 6:00 on the sharp. We let some of the crowds get between us and the action as we knew many might leave. So, we had front row seats for the 6:30 and 7:00 shows. In between on the quarter hours, the tallest building in the world puts on short light shows too. So we got to see the Burj in a number of different costumes.
We tried to return via the Dubai Metro. It's not a secret that this world class city vastly underbuilt the main Red Line. I don't think I've ever ridden with so many other people squeezed into such a small space. And bear in mind, we've done a whole lot of travelling.
We managed to get back and transfer to the Green Line at Union Station. Perhaps bruised and exasperated but we arrived at Baniyas Square nevertheless. What a neat thing to do with at least 100,000 other spectators on Christmas eve!