Key Takeaways
- Dubai Frame is a 150‑meter tall picture‑frame structure that links old and new Dubai.
- Designed by architect Fernando Donis and built by Al Shafar Group.
- Two observation decks give 360° city views; the glass bridge offers a thrilling walk.
- Tickets cost between AED 50 and AED 100; online booking speeds up entry.
- Great photo‑ops, night‑light shows, and easy access via Metro make it a must‑see.
When you wander along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, you’ll spot Dubai Frame a monumental picture‑frame‑shaped structure that bridges art, architecture and engineering, offering panoramic views of both historic and modern Dubai. It’s more than a giant photo‑frame - it’s a cultural bridge that lets you look east to the historic creek and west to the glittering skyline.
Direct Answer
The Dubai Frame is a 150‑meter high, 105‑meter wide landmark that frames the city’s past and future, featuring glass‑enclosed observation decks on its top and a sky‑bridge that lets visitors walk between the two towers.
Definition and Context
Constructed in 2018, the frame sits on the edge of Zabeel Park, one of the city’s largest green spaces. Architect Fernando Donis envisioned it as a “portal of time”. Structural engineering was handled by WSP Global, ensuring the massive steel skeleton could support the glass façade and the sky‑bridge that hovers 100 metres above ground.
Benefits of Visiting the Dubai Frame
- Unique Perspective: From the lower deck you see the winding creek, the early‑Dubai souks, and the desert‑edge horizon. From the upper deck you get a bird’s‑eye view of the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and the World Islands.
- Instagram‑Ready: The golden frame at sunrise and the illuminated night show make perfect backdrops.
- Educational Experience: Interactive galleries inside the base explain Dubai’s rapid transformation, adding depth beyond the visual spectacle.
- Family Friendly: Children love the glass bridge; there are wheelchair‑accessible elevators and stroller‑friendly ramps.
How to Reach the Dubai Frame
Getting there is straightforward:
- Take the Red Line Metro to Dubai Internet City station.
- Exit toward Al Khail Road and catch a short bus 81 that drops you at Zabeel Park.
- Follow the clear signage that leads directly to the frame’s entrance.
If you drive, park in the adjacent public lot (AED 5 per hour). Taxis and ride‑hailing services also drop you at the main gate.
What to Expect During Your Visit
After ticket validation, an elevator whisks you to the lower observation deck in under a minute. You’ll first see a 360° video of Dubai’s evolution, then step onto the glass‑floor bridge - a translucent panel that gives the illusion of walking on air. The upper deck offers a rotating restaurant, Sky View Café, where you can sip a latte while the city glitters below.
Throughout the day, a timed light‑show paints the frame in shifting colors, turning the structure into a giant lantern.
Pricing and Booking
Tickets are tiered:
- Standard Adult (age 12+): AED 50
- Child (3‑11 years): AED 20
- Premium (includes sky‑bridge access and café voucher): AED 100
Purchase tickets online via the official website or the Dubai Frame app for a 10% discount and a fast‑track entry pass.
Safety Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes - the glass bridge can feel slippery on rainy days.
- If you’re afraid of heights, stay on the lower deck; the upper deck has a solid floor option.
- Bag checks are mandatory; keep valuables close while you queue.
- Follow staff instructions during the light‑show, especially when the floor panels are illuminated.
Comparison: Dubai Frame vs. Burj Khalifa vs. Louvre Abu Dhabi
| Feature | Dubai Frame | Burj Khalifa | Louvre Abu Dhabi |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 150 m | 828 m | 73 m |
| Primary purpose | Observatory & cultural bridge | Mixed‑use skyscraper (observation, hotel, office) | Art museum |
| Design inspiration | Giant picture frame | Islamic architecture + spire | Floating dome, ‘rain of light’ concept |
| Typical ticket price (adult) | AED 50 - 100 | AED 150 - 200 | AED 60 - 80 |
| Best time to visit | Sunset for light‑show | Early morning to avoid crowds | Late afternoon for natural light inside |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of the Dubai Frame?
The frame opens daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The last entry is at 8:30 PM.
Is there a discount for UAE residents?
Yes - residents can enjoy a 15% discount on standard tickets by presenting a valid Emirates ID.
Can I bring a stroller onto the glass bridge?
Strollers are not allowed on the sky‑bridge for safety reasons, but you can leave it at the ground‑level waiting area.
Is there a wheelchair‑friendly route?
All elevators are wheelchair accessible, and the lower deck offers a fully level observation area.
Do I need to pre‑book tickets?
Pre‑booking is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays, to avoid long queues.
Ready to Experience the Frame?
Grab your tickets online, head to Zabeel Park, and step into a living photograph of Dubai’s past, present, and future. Whether you’re a first‑time visitor or a local looking for a fresh perspective, the Dubai Frame promises a picture‑perfect moment you won’t forget.
George Granados
October 21, 2025 AT 00:40The Dubai Frame stands as a bold visual metaphor that captures the city’s rapid transformation. Its towering steel ribs reach up 150 meters and frame the skyline with a crisp architectural line. Visiting the lower deck you are greeted by an immersive video that traces the humble beginnings of Dubai from a pearl‑diving outpost to a global metropolis. The glass bridge then invites you to step onto a translucent floor that trembles with the thrill of height while offering an unobstructed view of both historic creek and futuristic towers. Each pane of glass has been engineered to withstand desert sandstorms and the occasional gust of wind that sweeps across the boulevard. The design by Fernando Donis was deliberately chosen to act as a portal of time that encourages reflection on where we have come from and where we are headed. The observation decks are fully accessible with elevators that cater to wheelchairs, strollers, and families with young children. Ticket pricing is modest allowing locals and tourists alike to experience the panoramic vista without breaking the bank. Online booking not only guarantees entry but also unlocks a small discount that makes the experience even sweeter. The night‑light show transforms the frame into a giant lantern that pulses with colors reflecting the city’s vibrant energy. Photographers will find endless angles for their Instagram feed, especially during sunrise when the golden hour kisses the structure. The surrounding Zabeel Park provides a pleasant green respite before or after your visit, adding a natural counterpoint to the urban scenery. Transportation is straightforward with the Red Line Metro dropping you at Dubai Internet City and a short bus ride or walk leading directly to the entrance. For those who enjoy culinary treats, the Sky View Café perched atop the frame offers a latte with a view that feels almost surreal. In short the Dubai Frame is more than a tourist attraction it is a reminder that the city’s past and future can coexist in a single, elegant frame.