Do you dream of discovering Ain Dubai, Dubai's famous Ferris wheel, but don't know where to start? With its record 250-metre height, panoramic views of the Persian Gulf and temporary closure, this unique attraction on Bluewaters Island near Dubai Marina deserves a comprehensive guide to help you understand it all.
Follow the guide: we'll tell you all about its secrets, surprising anecdotes, and how to enjoy the city in a different way while you wait for it to reopen!
Discover the Ain Dubai: the world's largest observation wheel
Overview of this unique attraction in Dubai
Ain Dubai sits proudly on the island of Bluewaters, offering an unrivalled view of the futuristic metropolis. Measuring 250 metres, this observation wheel dominates Dubai's urban landscape. It embodies the United Arab Emirates' ambition to push back architectural boundaries. In a single spin, it reveals panoramic views of the Persian Gulf, Palm Jumeirah and Burj Khalifa, making it a must-see attraction for thrill-seekers.
Technical specifications of the Dubai Ferris wheel
At 250 metres, Ain Dubai surpasses all existing Ferris wheels, beating the record held by the Las Vegas High Roller (167.6 metres). Its structure weighs a total of 18,000 tonnes, including an 1,800-tonne central hub. The 48 cabins, each able to accommodate 40 people, are connected by 192 cables totalling 2,400 km. Compared with the London Eye (135 meters), it offers a much higher, more immersive experience.
The unique experience of Ain Dubai
The 48 air-conditioned cabins of the Ain Dubai promise an exciting journey. In 38 minutes, a complete tour reveals 360° views of Dubai: from Palm Jumeirah to the Burj Khalifa, via Dubai Marina. Each bubble, equipped with leather seats and panoramic windows, accommodates up to 40 passengers. This unique experience combines technology and spectacle, ideal for admiring the city from an unprecedented angle.
History and construction of this architectural feat
Construction of Ain Dubai began in 2013, marking a major milestone in Dubai's tourism development. Inaugurated in October 2021 after several postponements, the project was spearheaded by Meraas Holding. The ambitious project mobilized engineers from all over the world to overcome the technical challenges associated with its exceptional size.
Technical challenges overcome to build Ain Dubai
Erecting a 250-metre structure called for innovative solutions. The base, anchored on four 126-metre legs, supports the 1,800-tonne central hub. The 192 precisely assembled cables ensure stability. The cabins, designed by POMA, combine safety and comfort. These challenges illustrate the expertise of our engineers, transforming an audacious project into reality.
| Name of the Ferris wheel | City (Country) | Height (m) | Diameter (m) | Number of cabins | Capacity per cabin | Opening date | Current status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ain Dubai | Dubai (United Arab Emirates) | 250 | 250 | 48 | 40 | October 2021 | Temporarily closed |
| London Eye | London (United Kingdom) | 135 | 120 | 32 | 25 | February 2000 | Open |
| High Roller | Las Vegas (United States) | 167,6 | 158,5 | 28 | 40 | April 2014 | Open |
| Singapore Flyer | Singapore (Singapore) | 165 | 150 | 28 | 28 | February 2008 | Open |
| Star of Nanchang | Nanchang (China) | 153 | 153 | 60 | 8 | May 2006 | Open |
Integrating Ain Dubai into Dubai's urban landscape
Ain Dubai fits perfectly into the development of Bluewaters Island, becoming a symbol of the Emirates' ambition. It complements the attractions of Dubai Marina, reinforcing the city's status as a global tourist destination. Thanks to its presence, the island attracts visitors seeking unique experiences, contributing to the futuristic vision of the metropolis.
Practical information for planning your visit to Ain Dubai
How to get to Ain Dubai on Bluewaters Island
There are several options for getting to Ain Dubai. From downtown, the metro (red line to DMCC station) is convenient, followed by a 20-minute walk. Cabs and private cars are ideal for greater flexibility. Bluewaters Island is accessible via a road bridge, a pedestrian footbridge (Wharf Link, 265 meters) and water cabs. The F57 bus runs between Jebel Ali and the island from 6 a.m. to midnight. Special shuttles are not mentioned, but parking is available on site.
For easy access, take public transport or free parking less than 10 minutes' walk away. Underground parking costs AED 20/h, with 3 hours free if you spend AED 100 in the shops. From Dubai Marina, the 15-minute walk via Wharf Link is pleasant. Buses 8, 84 and F55A also serve the island.
To make the most of your day, combine Ain Dubai, Dubai Marina and JBR Beach. Start with a morning at JBR Beach, discover The Walk at Dubai Marina in the afternoon, then finish with the sunset from the wheel. Allow 2 hours for Dubai Marina and 2-4 hours for JBR Beach. Thrill-seekers can try the XLine Marina zip-line or a dhow cruise.
Prices, tickets and booking options
Ain Dubai tickets (before closing) varied according to the type of experience and time of day. Standard fares included a 38-minute turnaround in an air-conditioned cabin, with prices starting at AED 145. Premium (sunset, cocktails) and VIP (private cabins) options were available, sometimes with discounts of up to 30% via platforms such as Thrillophilia.
Tickets could be purchased online on sites such as aindubai.com, Tiqets or GetYourGuide, or on the spot. Advance booking avoided queues and guaranteed popular time slots (sunset). Tourist passes combining Ain Dubai with other attractions existed, but check their current availability. Discounts varied according to season and promotion (e.g. Dubai Shopping Festival). Check Coupon.ae for discount codes.
For the best rates, look out for seasonal sales or combined packages. Off-peak periods (Tuesday, early morning) offered more affordable prices. Tourist passes including Ain Dubai were available through local agencies, but access will depend on the attraction's reopening.
Opening hours and best time to visit
At the time of its launch, Ain Dubai was open from 12pm to 10pm, except on Tuesdays (closed on certain days). Times could vary according to season or event, with slots such as 12pm, 5pm or 9pm. A tour lasted 38 minutes, allowing visitors to enjoy both daytime and night-time views.
The best time to visit was early morning (few people, bright sun) or sunset (spectacular views). From December to February, pleasant temperatures (24°C) and clear skies improved visibility. See our guide to the best times to visit Dubai. Special events (night illumination, culinary workshops) were scheduled in the evening, but check post-opening announcements.
For a memorable sunset, plan your ascent 1 to 2 hours before dusk. Prime time cabins (5pm-7pm) were very much in demand. Private events (birthdays, weddings) could be organized on board, but availability will depend on future offers.
The current situation at Ain Dubai: temporary closure and outlook
Closure of Ain Dubai: a pause that lasts
The Ain Dubai closed its doors in March 2022 for "improvement work" initially scheduled during Ramadan. This interruption, which was supposed to be brief, was prolonged with no announced reopening date. Official reasons remain vague, fuelling rumours and questions. The 250-metre-high structure symbolizes Dubai's architectural ambitions.
Initial announcements suggested a closure limited to the month of Ramadan, but successive extensions sowed doubts. The official website regularly updated the deadlines, without giving any concrete details. Speculation about technical problems circulated, but no confirmation was given. The imposing size of the wheel (250 meters) could complicate interventions.
To date, no reliable information on the reopening is circulating. Improvements, although mentioned, remain unclear. Visitors are hoping for something new, but the authorities' silence maintains the uncertainty. Why does such an iconic attraction remain inaccessible?
Unclear communication and strong reactions
Communication about the closure is limited to brief announcements on the official website. Initially scheduled for a few weeks, the duration was stretched without any clear explanation. The media relayed the mystery, highlighting the lack of transparency. "It's an unusual situation," commented one specialist blogger.
Tourists are expressing their frustration on social networks, with some cancelling their plans. Travel forums are full of unanswered questions. International media reported " technical problems " or "logistical delays", without confirmation. Is Ain Dubai's exceptional size (250 metres) complicating repairs?
Dubai Holding Entertainment, manager of the site, claims to remain "committed to improving the experience". Recent articles suggest "major upgrades", but details are lacking. In the meantime, social networks are abuzz with rumours, fuelling an expectation mingled with scepticism.
What are the prospects for the reopening?
No official reopening date has been given. The website simply states that the Ain Dubai will reopen "in due course", with no further details. Successive extensions have taught visitors to be wary of hasty announcements. Patience, then, but until when?
Improvements include "technical upgrades" and "logistical adjustments". Some speculate on revisited cabins or new animations. However, without official confirmation, these ideas remain theoretical. The priority seems to be safety, crucial for a structure of this scale.
Why wait to book? Because new experiences, if they exist, have yet to be discovered. As with other giant projects in the Emirates, the reopening could hold surprises. In the meantime, Dubai is counting on its other attractions to keep its magic intact.
Explore Bluewaters Island and the surrounding area until it reopens
Attractions and activities on Bluewaters Island
Bluewaters Island is a modern, lively destination in Dubai, designed to offer a unique blend of leisure, shopping and dining. This man-made island, located just opposite Dubai Marina, offers the ideal setting for a day or evening out with family or friends.
In addition to Ain Dubai, the island is home to a variety of quality restaurants, from street food to gourmet establishments. There are also shopping areas with designer boutiques and international brands. The Wharf, the central pedestrian zone, is bustling with cafés, bars and entertainment venues.
Active leisure enthusiasts will appreciate TR88HOUSE, a family entertainment center offering a trampoline park, fluorescent mini-golf and other fun activities. The Banyan Tree Dubai, formerly Caesars Palace, offers a private beach, swimming pools and first-class restaurants.
Hotels nearby for a stay close to Ain Dubai
For those wishing to stay close to Bluewaters Island, several accommodation options are available directly on the island. The Banyan Tree Dubai, formerly Caesars Palace, offers luxury accommodation with breathtaking views of the city and the Arabian Gulf.
Dubai Marina and JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence) also offer a wide range ofaccommodation options, from boutique hotels to luxury residences. The Ritz Carlton JBR, located on The Walk, is just a few minutes' walk from Bluewaters, as are the Rove Dubai Marina and the Address Beach Resort.
When choosing your accommodation, there are a number of criteria to consider: a panoramic view of Dubai, proximity to a beach, easy access on foot or by public transport, or special offers combining accommodation and activities on the island.
Alternative ways to enjoy panoramic views of Dubai
While we await the reopening of Ain Dubai, several other observation points offer spectacular views of Dubai. The Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest skyscraper, allows visitors to admire the city from a height of over 500 metres, thanks to its "At The Top" observatories.
The Dubai Frame, a large golden frame located in Zabeel Park, offers a unique view of the city, framing both its historic districts and futuristic skyscrapers. For a different experience, the View at The Palm, located 240 meters up the Palm Tower, offers a 360° panorama of Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina.
For an original aerial perspective, helicopter flights fly over Dubai's iconic sites, while panoramic restaurants and bars such as CÉ LA VI or The Penthouse offer spectacular views in an elegant lounge atmosphere.
At 250 meters high, Ain Dubai dominates the landscape of Bluewaters Island, offering breathtaking views of Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa and the Arabian Gulf. Despite its temporary closure, get ready to book your unforgettable experience as soon as it reopens. Why wait for an adventure that combines technology and spectacle, with 360° views of the futuristic city?
