Dubai Frame: Everything You Need to Know

Dubai never ceases to amaze and delight residents and visitors of the city. Another very original landmark has joined the already existing sensational ones — Dubai Frame located in Zabeel Park. The project has become very symbolic and represents a window on the conditional border between old and new Dubai. On one side, there is a view of modern landmarks, such as Burj Khalifa and skyscrapers along Sheikh Zayed Road, and on the other — of the old parts of the city (Bur Dubai and Deira).
All these and many other parts of the city and attractions are best seen if you have a car at your disposal. To do this, visit Trinity Boutique and choose a car for rent without a deposit from more than 80 models: premium Mercedes, exclusive Lamborghinis, chic Porsches, fast Ferraris, and many others, even 2024 models.
You can get a long-term rental or a short-term one, with or without a driver, there are many additional options. The price already includes taxes, toll roads, full insurance, increased mileage (up to 300 km per day), and as a gift — a fully filled tank. The car will be delivered to you wherever you order — even to the Zabeel Park itself if you wish. Pay in any convenient way (card, cash, or crypto) and pick up your car in excellent condition. Any questions left? Ask them to a manager specially assigned to you and ride without worries!
Now, let’s dive into the Dubai Frame guide to make your visit even more comfortable and interesting.
What is Dubai Frame?
The Guardian newspaper calls Dubai Frame “The largest photo frame on the planet”. In addition, it is one of the youngest attractions of the city. It was opened only in January 2018. Here are the most basic things you need to know before you explore Dubai Frame:
Address | Zabeel Park Jogging Track — Za'abeel — Al Kifaf |
Opening hours | from 9 am to 9 pm |
Nearest metro station | Al Jafiliya (Red Line) |
Ticket prices | 20-300 AED |
Best time to visit | before sunset |
How much time can you spend there | 45-60 minutes (unlimited stay time) |
Dubai Frame dress code | No specific dress code, but it is recommended to dress comfortably and modestly as a sign of respect for local customs |
The main idea behind the creation of the Dubai Frame is to connect different historical eras of the city. It is located in such a way that on one side you will see the characteristic sights of modern Dubai, and on the other side you will see beautiful views of the old city. Thus, the illusion of time travel is created 50 years ago.
Dubai Frame Design
The project was conceived by architect Fernando Donis. His idea won the design competition of the Dubai government and ThyssenKrupp Elevator to create the so-called “New Face of Dubai”. The Golden Dubai Frame actually consists of glass, steel, aluminum, and reinforced concrete. However, the design also uses gilding, which enhances the visual effect on sunny days (and there are quite a few of them here).
The Dubai Frame is located next to the Star Gate of Zabeel Park. Its height is 150 meters, and its width is 95.5 meters. The Frame is a 48-story skyscraper of unusual shape – two towers connected by a 93-meter-long glass bridge.
Interesting fact — The Golden Frame has the unofficial status of “the largest stolen building of all time”. It is alleged that the designer’s intellectual property was stolen. In fact, he was denied recognition of authorship for his design. We don’t know how the legal proceedings ended, as the parties refuse to comment.
Entrance to Dubai Frame
Men must enter on the right and women on the left once they reach Dubai Frame entrance. After that, a security check is conducted. It's also helpful to know that carrying heavy objects or backpacks upstairs is prohibited. This is done for two reasons: safety and lift capacity. You can leave everything securely at the counter, so don't worry.
Inside the Dubai Frame
After purchasing Dubai Frame tickets, you attend a full three-part tour: a short film about the history of Dubai from the desert to the metropolis, a trip up, and then you go down and watch a film adaptation of the future city through 3D effects.
The Past Museum
First Dubai Frame offers you a modern interactive museum that introduces the history of the emirate using the latest technology. There you can see a 1960s plan of Dubai, talking holograms, all sorts of household items, and many interactive things and 3D images. The presentation is very exciting and will not leave anyone indifferent.
The Present Dubai
The bridge at the top, connecting the towers, provides an excellent panoramic view of the city. From here, stunning landscapes of the legendary city open up. In the center of the upper part of the Dubai Frame, there is a transparent glass floor with an area of 25 m2. You will have the opportunity to admire the view of the ground from a height of 150 meters. Elevators will take you to the upper bridge on the 48th floor in 75 seconds.
The Future Gallery
The Future Dubai Gallery illustrates what the future may bring through virtual reality. You get the impression that a time machine has taken you to Dubai in the year 2050, thanks to the immersive sound and visual effects. This place has a lot of futuristic features, like space missions, underwater habitats, and air taxis.
Breakfast with the View
Enjoy a delicious cup of coffee and a nutritious breakfast to start your day. Breakfast is served from 6 am to 8 am at the top of Dubai Frame. You can enjoy your favorite breakfast while watching the sunrise.
Gift Shop
There are 2 small kiosks with souvenirs and special treats at the top of the Frame and one Gift Shop near the entrance which sells T-shirts, mugs, keychains, etc.
Dubai Frame Ticket Cost
For those wishing to visit Dubai Frame, the ticket price in 2025 will be:
Visitors Category | Entry Ticket Price |
---|---|
Adults (above 12) | 50 AED |
Children (3-12 years old) | 20 AED |
Children under 3, senior citizens above 60, people of determination plus 2 companions max | Free |
VIP Ticket | 300 AED |
VIP Dubai Frame tickets allow you to get a private tour around the Dubai Frame, fast track entry, free parking space, and a souvenir gift.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
When planning your trip to Dubai Frame, consider the following tips to ensure an unforgettable experience:
- To avoid the crowds, go early in the morning or later in the evening. The building can only accommodate 200 visitors per hour.
- Check for clear weather to enjoy the views from the Sky Deck Level.
- Wear comfortable shoes and dress nicely.
- Bring a camera to capture stunning views and memories.
- Download the Dubai Frame app for more information and engaging content.
With these tips, you can have an unforgettable time visiting one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks. However, there are some restrictions you should be aware of:
- No pets;
- No strollers (you should leave it outside if you have one);
- No photos in the gallery;
- No food and drinks from outside;
- No jumping on the glass floor;
- No smoking.
These rules are established for your convenience, safety, and a better experience of visiting the Frame to enjoy the city's modern skyline.
Overall, a visit to this place is definitely a new, unique, and interesting experience, which by its nature is significantly different from visiting other panoramic sites and will contribute to the collection of tourist attractions not only in Dubai but also around the world.
FAQ
What are the opening hours of Dubai Frame?
The Frame is open from 9 am to 9 pm every day, giving plenty of time for visitors. It is open all year round, including weekdays, weekends, and holidays, making it accessible to everyone.
How much time is needed for a Dubai Frame?
A visit to the sight typically lasts about 45-60 minutes, but you can stay longer to enjoy the view.
Is it better to see Dubai Frame in the morning or at night?
The best time to visit Dubai Frame is during sunset hours. The golden hours cast a warm glow over the landscape, creating a mesmerizing backdrop of vibrant colors. You can also watch the city transform mesmerizingly as the sun sets, painting the sky in orange, pink, and purple hues.
How to Get to the Dubai Frame?
The nearest metro station is Al Jafiliya (Red Line). From the station, you can walk or take a taxi. There are also bus routes that pass by the park. The bus numbers that pass by the Dubai Frame are 21, 31 and F13. You can reach Zabeel Park by car. From Sheikh Zayed Road, turn onto the Al Maktoum Bridge and follow the signs to Zabeel Park.
Does the Dubai Frame have any restaurants or cafes?
With its contemporary atmosphere and impressive views, the Low Battery Cafe, located inside the Dubai Frame, provides a distinctive dining experience. Zam Zam Mandi Restaurant, Zou Zou Restaurant, Pind Da Dhaba, Yamanote Uptown Mirdiff, or Saleem's of Delhi are some of the restaurants close to Dubai Frame that you can visit if you want to sample a variety of cuisines.
Can I visit the Dubai Frame during Ramadan?
The timing of visits may change during public holidays, holidays, and the holy month of Ramadan. The opening hours during Ramadan are always from 11 am to 7 pm.
What metro station is the Dubai Frame closest to?
The nearest metro station is Max Fashion (ex. Al Jafiliya), the red line of the Dubai Metro. Then you need to walk to the entrance №4 of Zabeel Park.
Can I visit Dubai Frame at night?
Yes, it is possible to visit Dubai Frame at night, but the admission is extra. Generally speaking, Dubai Frame tickets during the day are slightly less expensive than night tickets.