Dubai Frame is a Dubai Frame 150-meter-tall golden structure in Zabeel Park that connects Old and New Dubai. It features a glass walkway and a museum inside. This architectural marvel opened in 2018 and has become a symbol of the city's rapid transformation.
What is the Dubai Frame?
The Dubai Frame is a massive golden structure located in Zabeel Park, Dubai. It measures 150 meters in height and 93 meters in width, forming a giant frame that literally connects the city's past and future. The building's design is inspired by the concept of a picture frame, capturing the evolution of Dubai from a modest fishing village to a global metropolis. Inside the frame, visitors find a glass walkway, a museum, and stunning views of both Old Dubai and New Dubai.
Construction of the Dubai Frame began in 2013 and took five years to complete. The structure uses over 5,000 tons of steel and 10,000 square meters of glass. The gold-colored exterior is made from a special coating that reflects sunlight, reducing heat absorption. This design choice not only makes it visually striking but also ensures it stands out against the city's skyline. The frame consists of two towers connected by a bridge at the top, creating a hollow space that frames the city views.
The Vision Behind the Design
Designed by Colombian architect Fernando Donis, the Dubai Frame was conceived as a symbol of Dubai's transformation. Donis won the competition for the project in 2008, and construction began in 2013. The idea was simple yet powerful: create a structure that frames the contrast between the historic areas of Dubai and the modern skyline. The frame itself is made of steel and glass, with a gold-colored exterior that reflects the sun. This design choice not only makes it visually striking but also ensures it stands out against the city's skyline.
Donis described the concept as "a visual metaphor for Dubai's journey." The frame's two towers represent the city's past and future, while the bridge at the top offers a literal connection between them. This vision reflects Dubai's ambition to preserve its heritage while embracing innovation-a balance that defines the city today.
Inside the Dubai Frame Experience
When you step inside the Dubai Frame, the first thing you notice is the glass walkway suspended between the two towers. Walking across it, you'll feel like you're floating above the city. The transparent floor provides breathtaking views of Zabeel Park below and the surrounding skyline. At the top level, the observation deck offers 360-degree views. On one side, you see the historic districts of Deira and Bur Dubai, with their narrow creeks and traditional buildings. On the other side, the modern skyscrapers of Downtown Dubai, including the Burj Khalifa, stretch out before you.
On the ground floor, the Dubai History Museum takes visitors through the city's journey. Interactive exhibits showcase Dubai's transformation from a pearl-diving community to a global business hub. There are also multimedia displays that let you experience historical events firsthand. For example, you can see how Dubai looked in the 1950s compared to today through augmented reality. The museum also features artifacts like traditional dhows, pearl-diving tools, and early maps of the city.
Why It's a True Architectural Icon
The Dubai Frame isn't just another building-it's a symbol of Dubai's ambition. Its unique design has earned it recognition worldwide. In 2019, it was named one of the top 10 architectural wonders by Architectural Digest. The structure's ability to physically connect Old and New Dubai makes it more than just a landmark; it's a narrative of the city's growth. Every year, over 1.5 million visitors come to experience the frame, making it one of the most popular attractions in the UAE.
What sets the Dubai Frame apart from other landmarks is its purpose. Unlike the Burj Khalifa, which is primarily a skyscraper, or the Palm Jumeirah, which is an artificial island, the frame serves as a visual and conceptual bridge. It reminds residents and tourists alike of Dubai's journey and its relentless drive toward the future. The golden exterior also symbolizes the city's wealth and ambition, while the frame itself represents the city's ability to frame its own story.
Planning Your Visit
Visiting the Dubai Frame is straightforward. It's open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Tickets cost AED 50 for adults, AED 30 for children aged 3-12, and seniors over 60 enter for free. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and the crowds are thinner. A typical visit takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the museum and taking photos.
Here's a quick reference for your visit:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily |
| Ticket Price | AED 50 for adults, AED 30 for children (ages 3-12), free for seniors over 60 |
| Best Time to Visit | Early morning or late afternoon for clear views and fewer crowds |
| Duration of Visit | 1.5 to 2 hours |
| Accessibility | Fully wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps |
Pro tip: Bring a camera with a good zoom lens. The views from the top are spectacular, especially at sunset when the sky turns golden. Also, check the Dubai Frame's official website before visiting for any special events or temporary exhibitions.
The Future of Dubai's Icon
As Dubai continues to grow, the Dubai Frame remains a central part of its identity. In 2025, the landmark introduced a new augmented reality exhibit that overlays historical images onto the city views. This allows visitors to see how specific areas looked decades ago, right next to the modern skyline. The museum has also expanded its collection to include more interactive displays about Dubai's future projects, such as the Dubai Creek Harbour development.
Looking ahead, the Dubai Frame is set to become even more integrated with the city's tourism infrastructure. Plans include improved transportation links to the site and partnerships with local hotels for package deals. As Dubai prepares for Expo 2025, the frame will likely play a key role in showcasing the city's evolution to international visitors.
For anyone interested in understanding Dubai's story, the Dubai Frame offers a unique perspective. It's not just a building-it's a living symbol of the city's past, present, and future.
How tall is the Dubai Frame?
The Dubai Frame stands at 150 meters tall and spans 93 meters wide. Its design is meant to resemble a giant picture frame, offering panoramic views of both Old and New Dubai.
Is the glass walkway safe?
Yes, the glass walkway is completely safe. It uses reinforced, tempered glass rated to withstand heavy loads. Safety barriers are also installed along the edges for extra security.
Can I take photos from the glass walkway?
Absolutely! The glass walkway is one of the best spots for photography. Just be mindful of other visitors and avoid using tripods during peak hours to keep the area clear.
Are there food options inside?
There's a small café on the ground floor offering light snacks and beverages. For more dining options, nearby restaurants in Zabeel Park or Downtown Dubai are easily accessible.
What's the best way to get there?
The Dubai Frame is located in Zabeel Park, near the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). You can reach it by metro (Dubai Frame Station on the Red Line), taxi, or ride-sharing apps. Parking is available on-site for those driving.
