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Dubai Frame

Updated: October 12, 2021
 By Pri

Anyone who has visited Dubai recently will have seen an eye-catching structure rising up against the skyline in Karama. The Dubai Frame is set to be the newest addition to Dubai’s collection of architectural icons. This project has been a long-time coming – in fact, it was originally set to open in 2015. However, good things come to those who wait. We are happy to say that the Dubai Frame is now completed. Since its official opening date has now been set for January of 2018, we thought we would share everything you need to know about the Dubai Frame.

What is the Dubai Frame?

The Dubai Frame is 150-meter-by-150-meter rectangular structure, with a void in the center. According to the architect, instead of just being another structure on the Dubai skyline, it was designed to ‘frame’ Dubai’s development – past, present and future.

When you look through the frame from one side, to the South, you can see the glitzy skyline of Downtown Dubai, including famous landmarks like the Burj Khalifa. This view represents the modern side of Dubai, with all its glamour and ambition. However, when you look through the other side of the frame, to the North, you see the heritage regions of Dubai, where residents of the past dived for pearls, traded spices and lived simple lives.

How is the Dubai Frame decorated?

The Dubai Frame is opulently decorated with a stainless steel gold cladding, in a nod to Dubai’s reputation as the ‘City of Gold’. The shining exterior is striking against the blue sky. Fun fact –the honeycomb-like design on the Dubai Frame is a reference to the symbol of the upcoming Dubai Expo 2020.

Can you go to the top of the Dubai Frame?

Yes – the top of the Dubai Frame consists of a 93-meter long bridge. This allows visitors to enjoy views from up high. The experience is managed by the same people in charge of ‘At the Top’, the Burj Khalifa’s own viewing deck experience. This way, you know you are dealing with a team that is experienced in managing huge attractions like this endeavor.

How do you get to the top of the Dubai Frame?

Thankfully, the top of the Dubai Frame is accessible by elevator. In fact, the elevator is designed by ThyssenKrupp, the German engineering company that actually sponsored the competition where this design first took fruit. Impressively, the elevator is designed to only take one minute to reach the top, so just getting there will be an experience in and of itself.

Where is the Dubai Frame located?

The Dubai Frame is located at Zabeel Park in Karama. Karama is a lot closer to old area of Dubai, rather than the new. This makes sense, as the extra distance allows for a more encompassing view of the towers that make up Downtown Dubai. In a similar vein, by being closer to the Dubai Creek, the visitors can enjoy watching the sharper details, like the abras on the water.

If you are travelling to the Dubai Frame by metro, you should take the Red Line to the Al Jafiliya Metro Station. Our guide to using the Dubai Metro will help you out. If you wish to travel by car, there is public parking available inside Zabeel Park, outside Gate One.

How much are tickets to visit the Dubai Frame?

Tickets to the Dubai Frame cost AED 50 for adults and AED 30 for children. Tickets are free for children under the age of 3 and people over the age of 60. The tickets are valid for a one-hour experience.

The ticket system for the Dubai Frame to similar to that of the Burj Khalifa, wherein it is highly recommended that you book your tickets in advance. Each individual tour is set to take 20 people. While you might get lucky sometimes and find a group with an opening, your best bet is to reserve in advance.

Is the view from the top all the Dubai Frame has to offer?

No – the Dubai Frame is also home to a museum on the mezzanine floor. In keeping with the theme of the Dubai Frame, the museum is focused on Dubai’s development from humble fishing village to iconic global metropolis. What makes this museum particularly unique is that it doesn’t just rely on displays to convey information. Instead, it incorporates projections, mist effects, scents and movement to create a one-of-a-kind interactive experience.

Dubai has gone through massive changes throughout the course of its history. It is apt that there is now a monument paying tribute to the city’s past and future. We can’t wait for the official opening of the Dubai Frame, which will give us a chance to celebrate all that the city of Dubai has accomplished.

About The Author

Pri

Pri is a true believer in the Rule of Three - she lives between Dubai, Bombay and Washington DC, speaks three languages and has 3 kids under 3. She graduated from Connecticut College and has a Masters Degree from New York University. Pri is a licensed Dubai tour guide, travel blogger, art aficionado, foodie and curious to check out all things new in her city. Pri has been part of the Free Tours By Foot team since 2015 and loves to make customized itineraries for her guests.
Updated: October 12th, 2021
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