The Dubai Eye just opened in the UAE and, at 820 ft, it’s officially the world’s tallest observation wheel. To mark the grand opening, Crown Prince of Dubai Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum was filmed sitting atop one of the wheel’s viewing pods in a promotional video.
The attraction is the centerpiece of Bluewaters Island, an artificial island near the Dubai Marina that opened in 2018.“The record-breaking Ain Dubai eclipses the 165-meter Singapore Flyer and is almost double the size of the London Eye,” said Ronald Drake, the attraction’s general manager.
The structure has 48 enclosed cabins, some of which can fit up to 40 passengers. In total, 1,750 people can ride at the same time, according to the attraction, however, capacity is currently limited due to the global pandemic. As of now, up to 10 people can ride in each cabin, said Drake.
Each cabin is larger than two double-decker buses strapped side by side, according to Ain Dubai. Three types of cabins are available: “observational” cabins are for basic rides, “social experiences” include lounge access and a drink, and “private” cabins which can be customized for dinner parties, business meetings and other events.
Each ride lasts 38 minutes and gives a bird’s-eye view of Dubai’s coast and city skyline.
