Why is Ain Dubai, the world’s largest and tallest observation wheel, currently closed?
This major attraction, which offered stunning views of Dubai’s skyline and the Arabian Gulf, has remained out of service since March 2022.
People have been left wondering what led to the closure of such a major landmark and when, or if, it will reopen.
The closure was initially expected to be temporary, but ongoing maintenance and updates from the operators suggest more complex issues.
Here’s everything you need to know about Ain Dubai’s closure and what to expect in the future.
What is Ain Dubai?
Ain Dubai, also known as the Dubai Eye, is the world’s tallest observation wheel on Bluewaters Island.
It stands 250 meters tall (820 feet) and opened to the public in October 2021.
The wheel features 48 spacious, air-conditioned cabins, each capable of accommodating up to 10 people.
A full ride takes around 38 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a bird’ s-eye view of Dubai’s skyline and the Arabian Gulf.
From the top, you can see the Dubai Marina, the Palm Jumeriah, Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab and other nearby attractions.
In addition to the observation experience, Ain Dubai is part of a larger entertainment complex on Bluewaters Island, which includes dining options, retail stores, and various attractions.
Why is the Ain Dubai Closed?
Three years ago, Ain Dubai was introduced to Dubai’s skyline as the world’s largest Ferris wheel, bringing excitement and anticipation.
However, just a few months after it opened, the wheel mysteriously stopped turning.
What was initially expected to be a two-month closure for maintenance has stretched on indefinitely, leaving everyone curious about what’s really going on.
Those behind the project have been tight-lipped, leaving many to wonder if Ain Dubai will ever reopen.
People working at nearby shops and restaurants are starting to doubt it.
After six years of construction, it feels frustrating to see such a hyped attraction standing still.
Whispers of technical issues have started to circulate.
Some employees suggest that the wheel is heavier than the man-made island it sits on, which could pose serious safety concerns.
They also mentioned that during its brief operation, the wheel was noisy, raising even more questions about its stability.
With no official word on its future, the fate of Ain Dubai remains a captivating mystery, leaving us all to wonder: will this monumental attraction ever spin again?
Suggested Readings:
10 Romantic Restaurants in Dubai For A Perfect Date
Dubai Dinner in the Sky
Dubai’s Most Instagrammable Spots You Should Not Miss
Will Ain Dubai Be Open By January 2025?
As of now, Ain Dubai is closed for enhancement works, and a specific reopening date has not been confirmed.
Nathan Marchon, the project’s executive director, shared, “We have no official date yet, but it may open within the next few months.”
This indicates a potential reopening could happen soon, but nothing is confirmed at this time.
While it’s uncertain whether Ain Dubai will be ready for visitors by January 2025, you can keep an eye on their progress and receive the latest updates by visiting their official website.
When is the Best Time to Visit Ain Dubai?
Contents
Whenever Ain Dubai finally opens, the best times to enjoy its stunning vantage points are during sunset, in the evening, and especially during the golden hour just before sunset.
These moments offer a chance to see the city’s skyline illuminated by the warm hues of the setting sun.
If you want to avoid the crowds and have a more peaceful experience, plan your visit on weekdays.
You will have the chance to soak in the views without feeling rushed.
However, if you are looking for a lively vibe, Fridays to Sundays are ideal, as many locals and tourists gather for entertainment and leisure activities.
For the best overall experience, consider visiting between November and January, when the weather in Dubai is pleasantly cool and perfect for outdoor activities.
Want Insta-Worthy Photos of Ain Dubai? Check Out These Nearby Hot Spots!
1. Dubai Marina Promenade: Take a leisurely walk along the promenade and snap some gorgeous shots of Ain Dubai with the beautiful marina in the background.
2. Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR): Get that beachy vibe and strike a fun pose against the golden sands, with Ain Dubai adding a little sparkle to your picture!
3. Sky Lounge at Caesars Palace: Elevate your experience and capture Ain Dubai with a chic cocktail in hand from this stunning rooftop bar.
4. Ain Dubai Plaza: For the best close-up of Ain Dubai, this beautifully landscaped plaza is perfect for your next social media post!
FAQs
Is Ain Dubai bigger than the London Eye?
Yes, Ain Dubai is taller than the London Eye. Ain Dubai stands at 250 meters (820 feet), making it the world’s tallest observation wheel, while the London Eye measures 135 meters (443 feet).
Is Ain Dubai open or closed?
As of 2024, Ain Dubai is closed for enhancements. Visitors looking to enjoy the Ferris wheel will need to wait until the reopening is announced.
Can I visit Ain Dubai while it’s closed?
Unfortunately, Ain Dubai is not open to visitors at this time. However, nearby attractions and spots, like the Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach, remain accessible and offer beautiful views of Ain Dubai.
Why is the Ain Dubai closed?
Ain Dubai is currently closed for enhancement works to improve the overall experience for visitors. The management aims to elevate the safety and functionality of the Ain Dubai Ferris wheel.
Featured Image: Wikipedia.org