Press Release
Ain Dubai Takes Shape
on Bluewaters Island in Dubai
 Engineering Marvel by Meraas Set to Become World’s Largest
Observation Wheel known as Ain Dubai
 Construction Milestone Reached: Hub and Spindle of the Wheel
Lifted into Place
Meraas, a Dubai-based holding company, has announced the completion of a significant
milestone in the construction of its majestic observation wheel to be located on Bluewaters
Island off the Jumeirah Beach Residence coastline, with the Hub and Spindle assembly of this
engineering marvel having been lifted into place – an unprecedented undertaking in the
engineering world, both in terms of process and scale.
Previously known as ‘Dubai-I’, the observation wheel is set to become the largest and highest
in the world. Once completed, Ain Dubai will tower high above Dubai’s coastline with its
dimensions far exceeding any similar existing structure. The observation wheel will open up
never-seen-before 360-degree views of Dubai and its renowned landmarks and skyline.
The Hub and Spindle of the observation wheel were manufactured and assembled in the UAE
and shipped to Bluewaters Island since it could not be transported on-land. The spindle with
a diameter of 6.25 metres is made of steel, similar to that used for nuclear plants, and is
skillfully rolled and welded to serve its vital future purpose. Three special machines imported
from Singapore undertook the fine-tuning work to produce circularity to meet incredible fine
tolerances.
The assembled hub and spindle is approximately 40 metres long and 20 metres high and
weighs a massive 1,805 tonnes - which is equivalent to four A380 aircrafts.
Delivered with fully-fitted internal and external platforms, cooling pipework, cable trays and
access ladders, the hub will later be connected to the rim via 192 spoke cables, with the
structure then resembling a gigantic bicycle wheel.
Two of the world’s largest cranes, each comprising a 180 metre-long boom and boasting a
lifting capacity of over 3,000 tonnes each, have soared over the construction site on
Bluewaters Island setting the Hub & Spindle in place on top of the 126 metre-high legs.
The maneuver required intricate coordination between engineers and technicians from
different countries as it involved simultaneous rotation and lifting.
The process of welding the Spindle A-frames to the four legs will take approximately four
weeks, and the cranes will continue holding the weight of the unit for the first two weeks of this
operation.
Speaking on the phenomenal construction milestone, Omar Delawar, Chief Projects Officer at
Meraas, said: “Once completed, Ain Dubai will emerge as an engineering masterpiece, the
first of its kind in the industry, and a truly spectacular must-visit attraction, adding a unique
experience and vantage point to the list of things to do in Dubai. Ferris wheels and observation
wheels offer the gentle thrill of being conveyed up in the air and have fascinated people for
several hundred years. Our iconic attraction heralds a new era in the world of entertainment
and will introduce the unforgettable option of viewing Dubai from the skies.”
He added: “We are proud to have conceptualised this engineering feat, and are thrilled to see
it taking shape – one step at a time. Due to the magnitude of the project, the construction
process is replete with superlatives, both for its engineering standards and quality assurance
and safety procedures.”
The architecture and design of Ain Dubai have been rigorously supervised by independent
third party engineers, who also inspect every step of the construction. This encompasses
thousands of complex calculations to ensure the horizontal and vertical forces of the fully
loaded, operational observation wheel are perfectly accounted for in the design.
Ain Dubai is set to become the main attraction of Bluewaters Island, which will also feature
entertainment, retail, residential and hospitality offerings. The creation of world-class
entertainment destinations marks a core component of Meraas’ strategy. In line with Dubai’s
tourism vision for 2020, the company is committed to delivering unique experiences that
engage audiences of all ages in new and exciting ways.
-Ends-
Notes to Editors
About Meraas
Meraas is a Dubai-based holding company with operations and assets in the UAE and overseas. The company
has established itself as a key innovator in UAE and follows a clear mandate to strengthen Dubai’s global
position. Through its portfolio of refreshingly innovative landmark concepts, Meraas aims to redefine industries
across multiple sectors. Meraas has also forged collaborative relationships with key partners who will add value
to its offering. The company has launched several projects in the tourism, retail, leisure and entertainment
sectors.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Sahithya Shetty
Edelman DABO
Mobile: +971 56 665 3607
Email. [email protected]
Mathilda Saad
Meraas
Mobile: +971 55 699 9890
Email. [email protected]