Bluewaters, the island destination by Meraas, has opened its doors to visitors. It is home to Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel. At 250 meters, it is taller than the 167-meter High Roller in Las Vegas and the 190-metre New York Wheel planned for Staten Island. Ain Dubai will carry up to 1,400 passengers at a time in its 48 double-glazed capsules, offering unforgettable 360-degree views of Dubai. Each leg of the observation wheel stands at a height of 126 meters and is long enough to fit 15 London buses.

Bluewaters features several courtyards, intimate pedestrian spaces and scenic walkways that boast a green and lush landscape. Central and Sunset Avenues separate the three zones, while North and South Walks allow pedestrians to stand at the water’s edge and gaze out at the sea, or the city beyond.

His Excellency Abdulla Al Habbai, group chairman of Meraas, said: “Dubai has always had its eye on the future. As the city develops in line with the vision of the UAE’s leadership, we are constantly striving to achieve greater heights. Meraas has been mindful of this, while also being focused on the nation’s emphasis on its people’s happiness and quality of life. We are set to achieve many engineering feats at Bluewaters and are delivering a destination which will establish a new benchmark for modern design. However, we are proudest of the fact that it will bring people together and create enriching experiences to support the growth of Dubai as a global hub.”

The Wharf, Bluewaters’ lifestyle retail area set against the backdrop of Ain Dubai, will have 132 retail and dining outlets dotted across the boulevard in low-rise structures. Walkways crisscross the district, shaded by trees, palms and visually striking light features.

Food and beverage at The Wharf range from licensed fine-dining concepts at the waterfront to quirky eateries, and an eclectic mix of cafés, restaurants and intimate bistros that serve a wide range of global cuisines. More concepts and stores will be opening gradually over the coming couple of months.

Central Avenue borders the landside of The Wharf, while North Walk and Wharf Avenue edge the waterfront, circling Ain Dubai Plaza beneath the observation wheel. A 265-meter pedestrian bridge, The Wharf Link, connects this area to The Beach on the coast of mainland Dubai. Bluewaters Wharf Station will serve as a dock for water transport. It also boasts over 2,000 parking bays, spanning basement and podium levels.

Meraas aims to pull out all stops to deliver Bluewaters’ promise of an island luxe vibe, with unparalleled experiences brought to the region for the first time at the Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai, The Residences at Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai and Caesars Resort Bluewaters Dubai. These five-star accommodations comprising 495 luxury rooms and 80 serviced apartments will be flanked by a 500-seat theater, The Rotunda, at one end and a state-of-the-art conference centre, Caesars FORUM, at the other. Complementing the hospitality offerings will be Cove Beach Dubai, a private beach club.

The 194-key Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai – the world’s second Caesars Palace – will feature an outdoor swimming pool, the wellness concept Qua Spa and a fitness center with stunning views of Ain Dubai as well as six cutting-edge restaurants. The Residences at Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai will offer an additional 80 premium serviced apartments, ideal for contemporary living. The second hotel, Caesars Resort Bluewaters Dubai, will comprise 301 rooms, two outdoor swimming pools, six unique restaurants, three meeting rooms equipped to provide business services, and a 750-square metre event hall.

Also in the project, Bluewaters Residences, which comprises 10 mid-rise towers featuring 698 apartments, four penthouses and 17 townhouses, set over a podium that offers stunning views of the sea or Ain Dubai. With the initial wave of handovers set for December 2018, the island should welcome its first residents by Q1 2019.