Dubai prepares for opening of world’s tallest observation wheel

Dubai Holding is preparing to publicly open Ain Dubai (previously named the Dubai Eye or Dubai-I) - the world’s largest and tallest observation wheel - in the fourth quarter of 2021 at Bluewaters Island in the United Arab Emirates.

Ain Dubai, at over 250 metres tall, eclipses anything that has come before it, heralding a new era in the world of entertainment. When completed, Ain Dubai will be 42.5 metres taller than the current world's tallest observation wheel, the 167.6 metres High Roller, which opened in Las Vegas in March 2014.

The 48 double-glazed uber-luxurious cabins will boast the capacity to collectively carry up to 1,750 passengers at a time. The custom built, fully air-conditioned cabins offer unrivalled and unforgettable 360-degree views of Dubai in premium comfort - views of Dubai Marina and landmarks such as Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, and Burj Khalifa.

Its base will serve as an entertainment zone, and an 80 metre LED screen will be mounted on the wheel creating an electronic platform for broadcasting, advertisements, and other information.

Dubai Holding has confirmed the appointment of Ronald Drake as general manager of Ain Dubai, bringing 35 years of experience developing global tourist attractions, retail and live entertainment projects. A specialist in commercial entertainment project revitalisation, Drake is responsible for creating and delivering the strategic vision of Ain Dubai through its launch and operations, as well as developing and nurturing growth for Ain Dubai, establishing it as one of Dubai’s iconic landmarks on the global stage.

Mohamed Sharaf, chief operating officer of Dubai Holding Entertainment advises “Ain Dubai aims to re-imagine the traditional observation wheel experience.”