Dubai Holding appoints Ronald Drake as GM of Ain Dubai

Dubai Holding, a diversified global investment company with operations in 13 countries, today confirmed the appointment of Ronald Drake as General Manager of Ain Dubai as the Emirate’s newest landmark and world’s largest and tallest observation wheel gears up for a highly anticipated public opening in Q4 this year.

A specialist in commercial entertainment project revitalisation, Drake brings over 35 years of extensive experience developing global tourist attractions, retail, and live entertainment projects. He is responsible for creating and delivering the strategic vision of Ain Dubai through its launch and operations, as well as developing and nurturing growth for Ain Dubai, establishing it as one of Dubai’s iconic landmarks on the global stage.

Set to become the ‘must-visit’ venue for views, sunsets, entertainment and celebrations, Ain Dubai re-imagines the traditional observation wheel experience, translating it into a world-class entertainment hot spot that delivers bespoke experiences suited to all types of celebratory occasions for people of all ages to enjoy.

Mohamed Sharaf, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Holding Entertainment said: “The highly anticipated Ain Dubai is ready to open to the world in the next few months as the newest skyline-defining landmark and the latest offering by Dubai Holding to elevate the Emirate’s rich and vibrant leisure and entertainment landscape. Ain Dubai holds ever so true to fortifying Dubai’s leading position as a key international tourism destination and serves as testament to the grand vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.”

“We are extremely proud of Ain Dubai as we endeavor tirelessly to ensure innovative concepts are brought to life in Dubai, building on our track record of launching some of the Emirate’s most popular entertainment attractions and destinations, while expanding Dubai Holding’s diverse entertainment and leisure portfolio as the region’s largest and most prolific. We have every confidence that Ronald’s invaluable contribution will ensure that this project will be another success,” Sharaf added.

Passionate about international entertainment and attractions, Drake’s long-standing career includes roles in America, Asia, and now the Middle East.

Commenting on his new position, Ronald Drake, General Manager of Ain Dubai said: “I am delighted to be trusted with a project of this scale and magnitude. With my background in developing world-class attractions across the globe, the focus will be tailoring these learnings and delivering the best possible experience for visitors to Ain Dubai.”

Set against the backdrop of Dubai’s dazzling skyline with breath-taking land and sea views, Ain Dubai, at over 250 metres tall, eclipses anything that has come before it, heralding a new era in the world of entertainment. The 48 double-glazed uber-luxurious cabins will boast the capacity to collectively carry up to 1,750 passengers at a time. The custom built, fully air-conditioned cabins offer unrivalled and unforgettable 360-degree views of Dubai in premium comfort.

Ain Dubai is the latest addition to the extensive Dubai Holding entertainment portfolio. As one of the largest diversified investment conglomerates in the region, Dubai Holding continues to play an instrumental role in the sustainable growth of the Emirate across various sectors in line with the UAE Government’s diversification strategy. Dubai Holding has the credential and a solid record of success, having launched some of Dubai’s leading entertainment offerings including ARN, Coca-Cola Arena, Global Village and other leading theme parks and waterparks.

The magnificent Ain Dubai sits at the heart of the unique, must-visit lifestyle destination, Bluewaters, where the charm and exclusivity of island living meets the exuberance of a sophisticated urban lifestyle. Bluewaters boasts hospitality, lifestyle, residential, and leisure and entertainment opportunities. The jewel of the Bluewaters experience, Ain Dubai offers a majestic new perspective from the eye in the sky across Dubai’s mesmerising skyline. Open both day and night, visitors can experience two very different sides of Dubai – gazing at sunset’s golden rays glittering across the skyscrapers or watching Dubai’s spectacular neon lights switch on as darkness falls.