Mammoet, the global specialist in engineered heavy lifting and transport, has said that it has successfully completed its role in the construction of Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest observation wheel.
Developed by Meraas, the observation wheel is located on Bluewaters Island and once operational, will provide residents and visitors with extensive views of the city and its shoreline.
In 2014, Hyundai Engineering & Construction (HDEC), the main contractor on the project, awarded Mammoet the heavy lifting contract to install the key structural elements of the wheel. By being heavily involved in the early phases of the project, Mammoet was able to present an installation method that delivered greater efficiency, safety and cost-effectiveness.
In a statement, the company explained that it proposed installing the largest elements – the legs and spindle – directly from the barge they were transported on, onto the foundations, by using two of the super heavy lift cranes. This eliminated the need for temporary storage, multiple barge transports and working at extreme heights.
“Having been involved in the construction of many of the UAE’s iconic landmarks, such as Burj Al Arab and its expansion, Dubai Metro, Dubai Mall, and the luxury Five hotel on Palm Jumeirah island, we are pleased to add another one to our successes in the Middle East,” said Michel Bunnik, commercial director, Mammoet Middle East and Africa.
“Working on Ain Dubai alongside our valuable client HDEC is an honour and a privilege. Engineering capabilities, operational excellence and the remarkable cooperation of the entire project team ensured that the project was delivered successfully and incident-free.
“I have no doubt that Ain Dubai will earn its place among the world’s most famous landmarks, setting a new precedent in the tourism industry and making Dubai a ‘first choice’ destination for the international leisure and business traveller. We are committed to supporting Dubai’s ambitions to strengthen its position as a global city and business hub of the Middle East,” he added.
