Dubai’s iconic Ain Dubai observation wheel has reopened to the public after more than two years of restoration work, with a soft launch on December 25, 2023, attracting hundreds of eager visitors.The reopening comes after the wheel was closed for “enhancement works” since March 2022. The attraction, located on Dubai’s Bluewaters Island, is now back in full operation, offering visitors the opportunity to take in stunning 360-degree views of the city.
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According to on-site staff, the first day of the soft opening was bustling with activity, particularly due to the timing of the launch coinciding with Christmas Day.
A security guard at the site remarked, “Since it was Christmas, there were a lot of people at the mall. Many visitors saw that the wheel was open and immediately booked tickets. Staff members also brought their families, so the place was very busy, perhaps even with thousands of people. We expect even more visitors today.”
The attraction had been a highly anticipated return after the extensive restoration period. It initially opened in 2021, but after being closed for upgrades, Ain Dubai’s grand reopening has generated excitement, with tickets ranging in price from Dh145 to Dh1,260 depending on the package selected.
Emirati visitor Ahmed Hani, who was one of the first to experience the attraction upon its reopening, shared his enthusiasm. “It was my first time riding the wheel, and it far exceeded my expectations. My family and I got to witness the sunset view, and it was truly breathtaking.”
Hani also observed that many visitors on the first day were riding the wheel for the first time. “There were some who had been before, but most were new to it,” he said, adding, “It was a very nice experience. The option to book an entire pod for celebrations with customized decorations will definitely be a popular choice among UAE residents.”
The 250-meter-tall Ain Dubai offers a unique perspective of Dubai’s skyline and is one of the tallest observation wheels in the world. Each ride lasts about 38 minutes, ensuring ample time for passengers to take in the panoramic views of landmarks such as the Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab.
International visitors were also impressed with their experience. Indonesian influencer Vina Muliana, who was visiting her sister in Dubai, decided to visit the Bluewaters Island on the opening day. “I’ve seen Ferris wheels in Singapore and London, but I wanted to ride the tallest one in Dubai,” she said.
“I had no idea it had closed for restoration, so we got lucky to visit on the first day of its reopening.” Muliana, who had already been skydiving during her trip, called the experience “incredible,” particularly highlighting the breathtaking view from the top of Ain Dubai.
Ain Dubai’s reopening is expected to draw even larger crowds as more visitors from around the world flock to the attraction to witness the breathtaking views and enjoy a unique experience in one of the city’s most popular destinations.
With the holiday season in full swing, the soft launch marks the beginning of what is expected to be a busy period for the world’s tallest observation wheel.