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Dubai Frame - A Window into the Past and Future of Dubai

My Experience at Dubai Frame

As a resident of Dubai, I’ve had the privilege of seeing the city evolve and grow over the years. Dubai Frame offers a breathtaking perspective of this transformation. My visit there was nothing short of spectacular, especially as the frame itself symbolizes the connection between old and new Dubai. Standing on the glass walkway at the top, looking out over both the historic areas of Dubai and the futuristic skyline, is an experience I’ll never forget. The views at sunset are absolutely mesmerizing – the city seems to glow with life as the sun dips below the horizon.

The museum inside the Dubai Frame is equally fascinating, showcasing the evolution of Dubai from a fishing village to a global metropolis. The contrast between the two perspectives – Old Dubai and New Dubai – gives you a deep sense of the city’s remarkable progress. I highly recommend booking tickets in advance, especially for the sunset times, to make sure you catch the view at its best.

 

History

  • Dubai Frame opened to the public in 2018, marking it as one of Dubai’s most ambitious architectural landmarks. Designed by architect Fernando Donis, the frame is often referred to as the “world’s largest picture frame.” The idea behind it is to provide visitors with a literal frame through which they can view both the city’s past and its present.

  • The structure stands at 150 meters tall and is designed to resemble a giant picture frame. The frame’s design was chosen as it represents the vision of Dubai’s leaders to connect the old and new parts of the city – capturing Dubai’s past in one direction and its future in the other.

  • Dubai Frame is part of a larger urban development plan for Zabeel Park, transforming the area into a cultural hub that symbolizes Dubai’s futuristic vision while respecting its deep rooted history.

 

Unique Facts

  • Observation Deck: The glass bridge at the top offers a thrilling walk where you can look directly down at the ground through the transparent floor. It’s one of the highlights of the experience and gives visitors a literal “bird’s eye view” of Dubai.

  • Dual Perspectives: The Dubai Frame provides a unique opportunity to view Old Dubai (with historic landmarks like Deira and Bur Dubai) on one side, and the towering skyscrapers of New Dubai (like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Marina) on the other. This juxtaposition of the old and new is what makes the experience so special.

  • Museum of Dubai’s History: The museum inside the Dubai Frame showcases a fascinating interactive exhibit about the city’s rapid transformation from a small fishing village to a world class metropolis. The museum is a great spot to learn more about the city’s development, its future projects, and the vision that led to its rapid growth.

  • World’s Tallest Frame: At 150 meters in height, the Dubai Frame holds the title of the world’s largest picture frame, and its unique structure has made it a striking addition to Dubai’s skyline.

Location

  • Zabeel Park, Dubai, UAE

 

Opening Hours

  • Daily: From 9 AM to 9 PM

 

Best Time to Visit

  • Sunset: For the most stunning views, the best time to visit is around sunset when you can capture both the old and new parts of the city as they glow in the evening light. The views of both Old Dubai and New Dubai are especially beautiful at this time.

 

Cost of Entry

  • Adults: AED 50
  • Children: AED 20
    (Note: Prices are current as of my last check, but I recommend confirming before your visit as pricing can change slightly.)

 

Facilities Available

  • Observation Decks: The Dubai Frame has two observation decks – one for the views of Old Dubai and one for the views of New Dubai. Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city from these high platforms.

  • Glass Walkway: The glass bridge at the top of the frame offers a unique experience. Walking on it gives you a thrilling view straight down to the ground, adding an extra level of excitement to the visit.

  • Museum: Inside the Dubai Frame, the museum offers an interactive journey through the history and future of Dubai. You’ll get to see models, photos, and multimedia displays illustrating how the city transformed over the years.

  • Cafes and Souvenir Shops: There are cafes on site where you can grab a drink or snack while enjoying the views. You can also find souvenir shops offering Dubai themed gifts and memorabilia.

Additional Insights

What to Do
  • Visit During Sunset: For the most captivating views, try to plan your visit around sunset. You’ll get to witness both the city’s old and new sections bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, which is perfect for photography.

  • Explore the Museum: Make sure to explore the museum to understand the fascinating history and future of Dubai. It’s a great spot to learn about Dubai’s journey from a desert village to the global city it is today.

  • Take Photos: The Dubai Frame offers amazing photo opportunities. Make sure to take advantage of the stunning views from both the observation decks, especially the glass walkway for a more dramatic shot.

What Not to Do
  • Don’t Miss the Glass Walkway: The glass walkway is a highlight of the experience, so make sure you don’t skip it! It’s a bit unnerving at first, but the views are absolutely worth it.

  • Avoid the Crowds: Weekends can get crowded, so try to visit during the weekdays to avoid the long queues and get a better experience.

  • Don’t Overlook Ticket Booking: It’s a good idea to book tickets in advance, especially for sunset slots, as they tend to fill up fast. This will help you skip the lines and ensure a smoother experience.

Personal Tips

  • Best View Timing: Aim to reach around 30 minutes before sunset to ensure you get a spot on the observation deck and can catch the beautiful transition from day to night.

  • Photography: Bring a good camera or smartphone to capture the stunning views. The Dubai Frame offers a perfect blend of cityscapes, historical landmarks, and the iconic Burj Khalifa in the distance, making it a photographer’s paradise.

  • Plan for a Full Visit: Don’t just rush through the visit. Take your time to explore both the observation decks, the museum, and enjoy the cafes around the park. The entire experience is very immersive and worth the time.

Visiting the Dubai Frame is a must do for anyone looking to gain a fresh perspective on Dubai’s incredible transformation. Whether you’re a first time visitor or a long-time resident, the Dubai Frame offers one of the most unique views of the city’s past, present, and future. The stunning views, combined with the interactive museum, make this a perfect stop for anyone wanting to understand Dubai’s rapid rise from a humble fishing village to one of the world’s most iconic cities. So, make sure to include it in your Dubai itinerary – it’s a window into the soul of the city, and you won’t want to miss it.