Ain Dubai
Bluewaters, Bluewaters Island, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
The Ain Dubai observation wheel soars 820 feet (250 meters) above sea level on Bluewaters Island, located on the southwest side of Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah archipelago. Opened in 2021, it’s one of the world’s highest observation wheels and treats passengers to rotating views of the Dubai skyline and Persian Gulf.
The Basics
Nearly twice as tall as the London Eye, Ain Dubai seats 1,750 passengers, making it one of the largest-capacity observation wheels on the planet. Passengers board 48 glass cabins to catch 360-degree views of Dubai and the Persian Gulf on 38-minute rotations called “flights.”
Flight tickets can be purchased at the gates, but this often requires waiting in line. Prebooked Ain Dubai experiences can include convenient skip-the-line options and transfers from Dubai city. Prime-time tickets are needed to ride the wheel at sunset, while VIP passes offer premium cabins with lounge access and cocktails. Alternatively, book a speedboat trip, evening sightseeing cruise, or Dubai city tour to admire the wheel from water or land.
Things to Know Before You Go
Ain Dubai is a must for sightseers and photographers—views of Dubai are unmatched.
Use the restrooms before boarding as there are no facilities in the cabins.
*Ain Dubai is wheelchair-friendly, with cabin access provided via lifts or ramps.
How to Get There
Ain Dubai sits on Bluewaters Island, a retail and lifestyle venue jutting into the Persian Gulf from Dubai Marina. Taxi cabs are easiest for reaching the wheel. If you’re driving, take Exit 31 from Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road. Alternatively, stroll over the footbridge from JBR Beach, catch the #8, #884, or F55A buses, or walk from the Damac or Dubai Marina Mall metro stations.
When to Get There
Dusk is a great time to catch sunset views. If you plan on buying tickets at the gates, aim to arrive just before opening time to beat any lines. Opening hours can vary, and the wheel is sometimes fully prebooked for private events, so double-check timings in advance.
What’s On at Bluewaters Island
Take time out before or after your Ain Dubai flight to explore the other attractions on Bluewaters Island. Dazzling, brand-new retail malls packed with restaurants, shops, bars, and entertainment venues are all within walking distance from the wheel. You can combine your flight with a visit to Madame Tussauds Dubai, a bout of boutique browsing, or a spot of ten-pin bowling at the Brass Monkey.
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