Ain't-So-Spinnin': The Curious Case of the Dubai Eye That Decided to Take a Permanent Siesta
Dubai, the land of mile-high buildings, man-made islands, and enough gold to blind a dragon... also has a giant Ferris wheel that seems to be taking a rather extended nap. Buckle up, thrill-seekers (or should I say nap-seekers?), because we're diving into the mystery of the Ain Dubai, the world's tallest Ferris wheel that went from tourist hotspot to motionless metal giant in the blink of an eye (or should I say, the lack thereof).
What Happened To Dubai Eye |
From Big Wheelin' to Barely Chillin'
The Ain Dubai, which translates to "Eye of Dubai" in case you were wondering, opened with a bang (and probably a lot of fireworks) in October 2021. Tourists flocked to experience breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its luxurious pods. But just like that celebrity marriage that lasted 72 hours, the Ain Dubai's glorious spin time came to an abrupt halt in March 2022.
What happened? That's the million-dirham question (because let's be honest, nobody wants to answer it). Theories range from "technical difficulties" (the official, but oh-so-unsatisfying explanation) to "the wheel being too heavy for the man-made island it sits on" (because apparently, even giant Ferris wheels need to watch their weight).
Tip: Focus more on ideas, less on words.
The Rumor Mill Goes Round and Round (But the Ain Dubai Doesn't)
The internet, that great gossip factory, has been churning out rumors faster than you can say "falafel." Some say it's a design flaw, others whisper about safety concerns. There's even a rumor that the wheel just got tired of all the tourists taking selfies (can't blame it, really).
Whatever the reason, the Ain Dubai remains stubbornly still, a giant metal reminder that even in a city that thrives on breaking records, sometimes things don't quite go according to plan.
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So, You Want to Ride the Ain Dubai? Here's How To... (Not Really)
How to ride the Ain Dubai: Well, this one's a tricky one. As of now, the Ain Dubai is more of a stationary sculpture than a thrilling ride. (Unless you consider the thrill of existential dread as you ponder the impermanence of all things, including giant Ferris wheels.)**
How to find out when the Ain Dubai reopens: This is where things get a little mysterious. (Check the official website regularly, but don't hold your breath.)
Tip: Highlight what feels important.
How to avoid disappointment: Maybe plan your Dubai vacation around other, more reliable, giant things. Like the Burj Khalifa, for example. That one seems to be going strong.
How to make your own giant Ferris wheel: Cardboard, a whole lot of glue, and a healthy dose of optimism might do the trick. (Just don't put it on a man-made island.)
Tip: Don’t skip — flow matters.
How to move on with your life: There's a whole world of Ferris wheels out there, my friend! (The London Eye is calling your name.)
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