Ain Dubai: A travel agent’s guide to...

All you need to know about the newly reopened tourist attraction in the UAE

Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest and largest observation wheel, reopened on 25 December 2024 following restoration work spanning more than two years.

Located on Dubai’s Bluewaters Island, the iconic attraction opened to the public in October 2021 before closing in March 2022 for “periodic enhancements”.

Now fully operational, the rotating wheel is open to the public Tuesday to Friday from 12pm to 9pm, and on weekends from 11am to 9pm.

Standing 250 metres tall, Ain Dubai is 82 metres higher than the Las Vegas High Roller, the world’s second-tallest wheel, and nearly twice the height of the London Eye.

It features 48 air-conditioned glass cabins, compared to just 28 cabins on the High Roller, with each cabin able to carry up to 40 people, with a total capacity of 1,750 people.

Each ride on Ain Dubai lasts around 38 minutes and offers 360-degree views of Dubai’s skyline encompassing Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Marina, Burj Khalifa and the Arabian Gulf.

Ticket prices range from AED145 (US$39) to AED1,260 (US$343), and alongside a standard ride in shared cabins, the attraction is now home to elevated ticket options and new experiences.

Starting from AED195 (US$53), the Views Plus package provides the ‘fast queue’ option alongside a snack, drinks and two digital images, while the Premium package priced at AED265 (US$265) for adults offers priority access to skip the queues, plus two mocktails and access to the lounge.

Private cabins can be booked as part of the VIP packages, which are available for six, 10 or 20 people and range from AED1,260 (US$343) to AED6,150 (US$1674). Perks include a separate entrance, access to the lounge, professional photos and in-cabin menus.

Themed dining packages for groups are also available. Afternoon Tea starts from AED295 (US$80), while the Dine in the Sky experience is priced at AED6,850 (US$1,865) per cabin for 10 guests and includes two rotations, a three-course set menu, four drinks per person and a dedicated butler. There are also Ladies Night and Boys Night Out packages, as well as three- and five-course dining in the lounge.

In addition, private and personalised packages can be organised upon request. From weddings to product launches, Ain Dubai offers creative spaces and F&B services to help individuals, groups and businesses curate bespoke events.

Cabins can be hired for a birthday celebration, private meetings, romantic proposal complete with personal bartender, candles and music, or wellness experiences with customised lighting and sound options.

Tickets are available from the attraction’s official website.

For more information, visit www.aindubai.com