Dubai hosts Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel. The Ain Dubai, or Dubai Eye, is the ultimate slap in response to the UK’s London Eye and the US’s Las Vegas High Roller. It is an answer that will reverberate through time and space for quite some time until some other nation dares to beat Dubai’s record. That will not be any time soon, we assure you. Ain Dubai stands tall, proud, and very prominent on Bluewaters Island, at 250 meters tall. It is the highest observation wheel in the world as of now and, hopefully, for a very long time to come.
1. Why Bluewaters Island?
Bluewaters Island is located near the Palm Jumeirah. It boasts a clear view of the Palm, the World Map islands, and Dubai’s coastline. Given the uninterrupted views from all sides, it is an ideal location for Ain Dubai. Dubai plans to construct 10 residential buildings, including 698 apartments, 17 townhouses, and four penthouses on this island. There will be several shopping malls, clubs, bars, entertainment options, and two luxury hotels. So, a visit to check out Ain Dubai will be a vacation of sorts on Bluewaters Island. The island is easily accessible from almost all parts of the city.
2. Why did Dubai build Ain Dubai?
Ain Dubai reflects the ambition and vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The Sheikh envisions a Dubai where people can explore and enjoy wonders that they have never experienced before. He wants Dubai to be able to bring people together from around the world, which will showcase Dubai’s business and leisure potential to a global audience. Ain Dubai also embodies Dubai’s pioneering and innovative nature, which has pushed the boundaries of modern engineering.
3. About Ain Dubai – Several Intriguing Facts
Ain Dubai, standing at 250-plus meters tall, is visible from the Dubai Marina or further off. It is definitely visible from space. It beats the 190-metre New York Wheel that is to come up on New York’s Staten Island, and the 167-metre High Roller in Las Vegas, in terms of its height and size. Ain Dubai is, to date, one of Dubai’s most extravagant and expensive projects. Are you the facts and figures kind? If so, then you will love the intriguing statistics behind the construction of Ain Dubai. Read on!
- The structure includes around 9,000 tons of steel, which is 25% more than the amount of steel used to construct the Eiffel Tower.
- Each rim section weighs the same as two Airbus A380 aircraft. Each rim was rested on five support structures connected to the hub, as well as two 115-metre spokes.
- Hight-grade German and Korean steel has been used to manufacture Ain Dubai’s eight-rim sections. As each rim is so large, the rims were individually shipped to Ain Dubai by barge. The rims are being manoeuvred into position by cranes that can lift 3,000 tons a piece.
- 192 heavy-duty cables connect the wheel rim sections to the hub and spindle. Each cable comprises over a hundred separate pre-tensioned wires that can take a force of 300 tons. These super-strong cables will eventually support the 7,500 tons of the rim and its capsules.
- Ain Dubai’s 48 high-tech passenger capsules are being manufactured in Switzerland by a firm called Swiss Rides, on behalf of Hyundai, who is the main project contractor.
- Each double-glazed capsule is 30-square-metre in size and can easily accommodate 40 passengers. Each capsule is surrounded by high-quality glass that offers maximum visibility and protection from ultraviolet and infrared rays. Ain Dubai’s capsules use the same technology that is used to produce military aircraft canopies.
- Each capsule will be designed with stone flooring and benches that can be converted into fine dining rooms for up to 12 guests.
- Licensed bars will also be set up in six Premium Capsules.
- Large LED screens in each capsule will provide information about the spectacular views on offer.
- Smooth riding is ensured by motors located under each capsule so that passengers do not feel the wheel’s rotation.
4. Tourist Options
The London Eye has become a famous dining and entertainment destination. People rent a capsule to celebrate birthdays, to propose to their loved ones, and to celebrate special occasions in a grand way. We can see Ain Dubai head the same way. Wouldn’t it be amazing to rent a capsule and throw a dinner party for your business visitors or family? The amazing views and the height will add an unparalleled level of excitement to any occasion that you celebrate up there.
5. Ain Dubai Cabins
There are 48 high-tech oval-shaped cabins in Ain Dubai. They are of three types:
a) Observation Cabins –They are shared cabins, known as observation cabins. They are available for use day and night, with a unique sunset trip included. A family pass is available (with or without refreshments) to enjoy this experience with your loved ones.
b) Social Cabins – The social cabins offer a unique way to relax and enjoy the views. These cabins have VIP lounge access and a bar at the centre of the pod.
c) Private Cabins –The private cabin is ideal for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, engagements, etc. Packages include a three-course dinner experience throughout two rotations of the wheel.
6. Ain Dubai Location
Ain Dubai observation wheel is on Bluewaters Island, off the coast of JBR Beach.
7. How to Reach Ain Dubai
Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum Airport are 30 minutes away, while Abu Dhabi Airport is 45 minutes from Ain Dubai. The island is connected to the mainland by Sheikh Zayed Road. You can take the 265-meter pedestrian bridge (a 15-minute walk) from Jumeirah Beach to the island.
a) By Car: You can reach Bluewater Island in private vehicles. There is ample parking space available.
b) By Bus: Bus routes 4, 8, 883, and F55A will take you to Bluewaters Island. The closest bus stop is Jumeirah (12-minute walk) or Royal Meridien (20-minute walk).
c) By Metro: The M1 metro line takes you to Ain Dubai. The nearest metro stop is Damac Metro Station (9-minute walk).
d) By Tram: You can take a light rail to reach Ain Dubai. The nearest station is Jumeirah Beach Residences (9-minute taxi ride).
e) By Taxi: You can reach Ain Dubai via a taxi, Uber, or Careem. There are designated drop-off and pick-up zones for taxis on Bluewaters Island.
8. Visit Timings
It is temporarily closed for maintenance.
9. Best Time to Visit Ain Dubai
The best time to visit Ain Dubai will be between October and March to escape the harsh climate. Visit Ain Dubai during the evening hours to enjoy the spectacular sunset views of the Dubai skyline. With the UAE adopting Saturday and Sunday as weekends, weekdays should be preferable for a visit to avoid the rush and long queues.
10. Tickets
The tickets for Ain Dubai vary according to the cabins visitors choose. A regular ticket or a general admission ticket for Observation Cabin is priced at 130 AED for adults and 100 AED for children (aged 3 to 12 years). At sunset, the price increases to 180 AED for adults and 150 AED for children. The Social Cabins include access to the VIP lounge. The tickets for the lounge pass are priced at 175 AED, and the premium pass (including a welcome drink and premium cabin) is priced at 380 AED. The tickets for a Private Cabin (10 people max) are priced at 1800 AED. It is better to check the up-to-date ticket prices on the official website.
11. Things to do at and around Ain Dubai
a) Ain Dubai offers an exclusive feature for adrenaline junkies.
b) There are lounges, cafes, beachside resorts, retail outlets, and restaurants to let visitors enjoy an incredible day out.
c) Enjoy a game of bowling at Brass Monkey.
d) Visit the Madame Tussauds Dubai
e) Relax at Cove Beach
f) Enjoy a concert or a comedy show at The Rotunda in Caesar’s Palace
g) Explore the Emirates Golf Club
h) Feel an adrenaline rush at Skydive Dubai
i) Explore the Dubai Marina Mall
j) Splash around at AquaFun Water Park
12. Restaurants Near Ain Dubai
Head to one of the many restaurants on Bluewaters Island. Some top restaurants here are The Selfish Bull, Hell’s Kitchen, Zhen-Wei, The London Project, and Alici.
13. Accommodation Near Ain Dubai
Budget: Pearl Marina Hotel Apartments, Dubai Beach Host
Mid-Range: Wyndham Dubai Marina
Luxury: Hilton Dubai The Walk, Caesar’s Palace Dubai
14. Ain Dubai Visiting Tips
a) You can enjoy a ride even if you have motion sickness, as the wheel moves at a walking pace.
b) There are no toilets on board, but you can use the washrooms in Terminal Building
c) You can enjoy free Wi-Fi while taking a ride in Ain Dubai
d) There are no locker rooms available for bags or luggage. Only small bags are permitted on board the Ferris wheel.
e) Guests under 16 should be accompanied by an adult over 21 years old.
f) Wear comfortable shoes as you may have to walk a lot to explore the island.
g) Follow proper dress code, adhering to the local customs and traditions.
Conclusion
Dubai has yet to let us know the exact date of Ain Dubai’s re-opening, as it is now temporarily closed for maintenance works. The world is waiting with eagerness for the day when it resumes rotating against the captivating backdrop of Bluewaters Island. It will be simply amazing, and we cannot wait. While Ain Dubai continues to reach new heights, other architectural gems, such as the Dubai Frame and the Museum of the Future, are worth a visit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. What safety measures are in place at Ain Dubai, and how does it ensure a secure experience for visitors?
Ain Dubai prioritizes visitor safety with stringent safety protocols. These include regular maintenance checks, thorough inspection of equipment, and adherence to international safety standards. Trained staff members are present to guide visitors, and modern technology is employed to monitor and ensure a highly safe ride experience for everyone.
2. How tall is Ain Dubai, and how does it compare to other observation wheels globally?
Ain Dubai stands at an astounding height of 250 meters (820 feet), making it one of the tallest observation wheels globally. To put it into perspective, it surpasses renowned structures like the London Eye and the High Roller in Las Vegas, solidifying its position as an unrivaled marvel in observation wheel engineering.
3. What are the key features and attractions associated with Ain Dubai?
Ain Dubai boasts cabins equipped with interactive experiences, providing visitors with an immersive journey. The panoramic views from the top include iconic landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa and the Palm Jumeirah. The observation wheel is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a mesmerizing spectacle against the Dubai skyline.
4. How has Ain Dubai contributed to Dubai’s tourism and economic landscape?
Ain Dubai has significantly boosted Dubai’s tourism sector by attracting visitors, eager to experience this architectural marvel. The influx of tourists has positively impacted the local economy through increased spending on accommodation, dining, and other leisure activities. Furthermore, Ain Dubai has become a focal point in Dubai’s marketing strategies to promote the city as a premier global tourist destination.