{"id":11969,"date":"2021-10-28T14:48:43","date_gmt":"2021-10-28T14:48:43","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/tiqets-blog-staging.local\/biggest-observation-wheel-in-the-world\/"},"modified":"2025-08-22T10:39:18","modified_gmt":"2025-08-22T10:39:18","slug":"biggest-observation-wheel-in-the-world","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/biggest-observation-wheel-in-the-world\/","title":{"rendered":"An Insider\u2019s Guide to the Biggest Observation Wheel in the World","gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"text"}]},"content":{"rendered":"\n

\u2013\u00a0This post was written by\u00a0Lauren Voges<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong>\u2013<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Setting a new world record is no small feat \u2013 especially when that record is building the biggest observation wheel in the world. But it\u2019s a challenge that the folks behind Ain Dubai were ready to tackle and conquer. Dubbed an engineering marvel, this spectacular observation wheel has more to offer than height; it has some of the best views of Dubai and plenty of luxurious experiences to boot.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We (virtually) sat down with Ain Dubai General Manager Ron Drake to find out more about this incredible attraction \u2013 and when and how we can enjoy it! <\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"Aerial
Ain Dubai, there’s no better place to see the Dubai skyline<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Tell us a bit about you: What do you do for Ain Dubai? <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

I am the General Manager for Ain Dubai and I am responsible for creating and delivering the strategic vision of Ain Dubai through its launch and operations, as well as establishing it as one of Dubai\u2019s iconic landmarks on the global stage.

I joined the project in 2017, and was charged with building a multi-layered, connected entertainment destination. I can\u2019t wait to lead the global launch of Ain Dubai in 2021!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is it like to work for the biggest observation wheel in the world?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Ain Dubai is more than a bucket list item, it is the ultimate celebration destination that has captured the imagination of the world and provides customizable experiences for a different perspective each time. It\u2019s not just about the views and ride \u2013 it\u2019s unique in so many ways.  From photo opportunities, to food and beverage, to hospitality, Ain Dubai provides multiple moments of enjoyment. <\/strong>

For me, it is an immense joy and pleasure to be involved in such a project and we can\u2019t wait to welcome the world! <\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"The<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Ain Dubai has already been named one of Forbes\u2019 bucket list attractions for 2021, what makes it such a special attraction \u2013 aside from its towering height? <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Ain Dubai eclipses anything that has come before it. It\u2019s the world\u2019s largest and tallest observation wheel, and we\u2019re confident it will prove a must-visit experience for visitors and residents in the UAE. 

Open both day and night, Ain Dubai will invite visitors to experience two very different sides of Dubai from stunning Bluewater\u2019s views to night-time entertainment hub. You can gaze at sunrise\u2019s golden rays glittering across the skyscrapers or you could watch Dubai\u2019s spectacular LED lights switch on as darkness falls.

Sundowners, dining in the sky, unique celebration packages and bespoke corporate & event offerings \u2013 these are just a few of the 19 unique & customizable experiences we\u2019ll offer. And they\u2019re all set against the backdrop of Dubai\u2019s dazzling skyline and breathtaking land and seascapes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How tall is Ain Dubai exactly? <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Well, it\u2019s over 250m, making it the world\u2019s largest and tallest observation wheel. <\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"View
Photo by Mohammad Wasim<\/a> on Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Where does the name come from? What does Ain mean?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Ain means Eye in Arabic so, essentially, the name means Dubai Eye.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What does it take to build the tallest observation wheel in the world? <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Ain Dubai really pushed the boundaries of engineering in a way that only a project built in Dubai can. It was built by the world\u2019s best, bringing together groundbreaking marvels, credentials and excellence in engineering, technology, and safety to create a remarkable visitor experience. 

What we\u2019ve designed and developed here is hugely complex \u2013 it has never been done before, to this scale, so a lot of what we did was breaking new ground.

This of course means that along the way, things didn\u2019t always go to plan. We hit some challenges but as is the Dubai spirit, we adapted, we found solutions, and we are so proud of what we have achieved. <\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"Looking
For an even more memorable ride, step onto Ain Dubai at sunset<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Who undertook the task of building the biggest observation wheel in the world?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Dubai Holding, a diversified global investment company with operations in 13 countries, is behind this amazing engineering feat. And the project was managed by North25, a Dubai-based project management company. 

But there are also 10 key countries that helped us bring this project to life:  the UAE, South Korea & Germany produced the majority of the Steel Wheel Structure; the UK and the Netherlands provided key engineering and project management expertise; France provided the key engineering on the cabins; Italy provided the control system and communication system; and finally the highest level of technical expertise was ensured by a reputable independent checking engineer from Germany.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you been on the Ain wheel yet? <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Of course, many times \u2013 the team have a hard time getting me off it!

Personally, my favourite thing about Ain Dubai is the multiple, unique photo-taking opportunities. Every moment is a great photo that is distinctly Dubai. From stunning views of the JBR skyline, to a bird\u2019s-eye view of the Palm, to the changing vibrant colours when Dubai goes from day to night, we simply have the best photo opportunities! <\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"Distant
“…the team have a hard time getting me off it!”<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

How long does the ride take?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Each rotation of the wheel takes approximately 38 minutes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What are the cabins on the wheel like? <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The 30-square-metre, double-glazed cabins are designed to comfortably accommodate 40 passengers and are clad in high-quality glass with UV and infrared protection to ensure maximum light and visibility. They\u2019re uber-luxurious! 

The cabins are more than 2.5 times heavier than those found on the London Eye, and they\u2019re larger than two double decker buses strapped together. They can collectively carry up to 1,750 passengers at a time. The best part? The cabins offer unrivalled and unforgettable 360-degree views of Dubai in premium comfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are there special ways to experience Ain Dubai? For example, can you have a meal or a drink on your ride? <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

So, there are three main categories when it comes to our cabins: Observation Cabins, Social Cabins and Private Cabins, with options to go on one rotation (approximately 38 minutes), or two rotations (approximately 76 minutes).  

The Observation Cabins provide the perfect platform for those never-seen-before, Instagrammable 360-degree views of Dubai. They\u2019re also a unique, fun way to relax into the end of a busy day or start an incredible night out. The Social Cabins feature beverage-inclusive packages that offer something for everyone. The premium cabins are great for enjoying a little VIP treatment and you can get the best social vibes at the Ain Dubai Sky Bar cabins with beverages to toast the sunset over Dubai.

You can also take your experience to new heights with an Ain Dubai Private Cabin, which offers true exclusivity. We\u2019ll have unique celebration packages for birthdays, engagements, weddings, business functions and more. The private cabins can be customised to cater for all sorts of events, from intimate celebrations to cultural festivities to treat VIP guests. <\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"Close-up<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

And finally, what tips do you have for a first-time rider? <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

1. Bring your camera! There is so much to see on Ain Dubai, you won\u2019t want to miss a moment.

2. One rotation takes approximately 38 minutes, but we advise you to arrive 30 – 60 minutes prior to your experience to complete the entry process, buy snacks and beverages, and visit the toilets before you board. Keep in mind there are no toilets in the cabin, but there are facilities in the Terminal Building. After your ride, you can extend your stay with a visit to our Seaview Lounge on the first floor or modern bistro cafe on the ground floor.

3. We are a fully-catered attraction, so no need to bring food and beverages from home.

4. Ain Dubai is located at Bluewaters in Dubai, opposite Caesar\u2019s Palace Bluewaters Dubai and near to other top-rated Dubai tourist attractions. The Ticket Office is located at the base of Ain Dubai, but we highly recommend you book in advance to avoid disappointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>