Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel, has finally made its much-anticipated return to the skyline of Dubai, reopening after more than two years of maintenance. The iconic attraction, which stands at 250 meters high and offers breathtaking views of Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), began its soft launch on December 25, 2022, before officially reopening to the public on December 26, 2022.
This landmark has been absent from the local tourism scene since March 2020, and its return is seen as symbolic of the Dubai tourism industry’s rebound. Ain Dubai will now operate from noon until 9 pm from Tuesday to Friday and from 11 am to 9 pm on weekends, closing every Monday. The final entry is permitted at 8:15 pm, allowing guests to experience stunning views at dusk.
For those eager to visit, Ain Dubai offers several tiers of tickets. The “Ain Dubai Views” ticket, popular among visitors, provides 360-degree panoramic views from shared cabins, priced at Dhs145 for adults and Dhs115 for children aged 3 to 11, with infants riding for free. A family pass for two adults and two children is also available for Dhs415.
Options expand with the “Ain Dubai Views Plus” ticket, which includes pre-ride interactives, snacks, drinks, and fast queue access, costing Dhs195 for adults and Dhs155 for children. Premium packages allow for cocktails and exclusive lounge access, with prices varying depending on the chosen package, reaching up to Dhs395 for bubbly per person.
Among the most exclusive offerings is the VIP group package, accommodating larger parties with private cabins and complimentary drinks. Prices for these packages can be as high as Dhs3,400 for groups of twenty, showcasing the luxury experience Ain Dubai aims to provide.
Before the official reopening, excitement and speculation ramped up as signs indicated Ain Dubai was preparing to resume service. Observers noted the structure began moving slightly, which sparked discussions about its operational readiness. A ticket kiosk was also noted at The Wharf mall located at Bluewaters Island, signaling readiness for visitors.
Ain Dubai’s reopening is part of broader efforts to rejuvenate the tourism sector, with the attraction having previously served as a backdrop for spectacular fireworks displays and other events. This holiday season continues to see daily drone shows as part of the Dubai Shopping Festival, reinforcing the city's commitment to entertaining its visitors.
The simultaneous reopening of the Al Ain Dates Festival adds to the cultural fabric of the region. This festival celebrates one of the UAE's most significant agricultural products and showcases local heritage through crafts, cultural performances, and diverse food offerings. Visitors will find not only palm dates but also various local delights, enhancing the richness of the Emirati experience.
The festival is set within Al Ain, becoming a gathering point for families and tourists alike. Events include traditional performances and workshops aimed at educating guests about the cultivation and significance of dates. Al Ain, known as the garden city, hosts the festival at the Al Ain Oasis, surrounded by lush date palms and cultural landmarks.
According to reports, the festival's significance extends beyond tourism, aiming to strengthen community engagement and promote local producers. “Our aim is to highlight the importance of dates not just as a food but as part of our culture and identity,” said festival organizer, reflecting the ethos of the event.
Participants and visitors alike can experience hands-on interactions, including date-picking and traditional cooking demonstrations, creating a unique immersive environment. The festival runs concurrently with Ain Dubai's reopening, marking a vibrant end to the year for both residents and visitors.
With both Ain Dubai and the Al Ain Dates Festival now operational, tourism experts predict these attractions will reinvigorate the region’s economy and support local businesses, representing the continuing upward trend of the UAE tourism sector.
