Work to begin on the AED 250 Million Great Dubai Wheel project

Work will begin shortly on the 185-metre Observation Wheel, one of Dubailand's landmark tourist attractions, which will welcome its first visitors in early 2009 and provide a breathtaking panoramic view of Dubai and beyond.

Salem bin Dasmal, CEO, Dubailand said: "I am confident that the Great Dubai Wheel will add a unique architectural landmark to the Dubai skyline, and enhance the Dubailand experience several times over.

"The Great Wheel Corporation has a proven track record in developing these remarkable attractions around the world, and I am glad Dubailand is the destination for their masterpiece in Dubai."

The scheme's master plan was presented to Dubailand and Dubai Municipality by Great Wheel Corporation, a fast growing company in developing, financing, building and operating Great Wheels. Currently, the group is working on various sites around the world.

Leon Heijkoop, representative of the Great Wheel Corporation in Dubai said: "Gaining the approval of Dubailand and Dubai Municipality is crucial to the development of the Great Dubai Wheel, and we are grateful to both for their unstinted support through every phase of the project to date."

Heijkoop added that the master plan was prepared by a team of international experts with the support of Dubailand's project consultants.

Florian Bollen, Chairman of the Great Wheel Corporation, said: "Evidence from destinations that already have the Great Wheel suggests that they are a very popular way of seeing the cityscape from a different perspective. The Great Dubai Wheel will be one of the most attractive locations in Dubai to visit - a place for families and friends, as well as for tourists to enjoy stunning views during a 30 minute fantastic experience."

The Great Dubai Wheel is expected to attract 2 million visitors each year to Dubailand and further boost the region's image as a tourist destination.