Dubai Frame — About, History, Tours & Visitor Info (2025)
Discover Dubai’s 150-meter landmark in Zabeel Park that literally frames the city: “Old Dubai” to the north and the modern skyline to the south. This guide covers what to see on every level, a brief history, the best ticket options, timings, how to get there, and practical tips.
About the Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame is a giant picture frame structure rising about 150 meters high and ~93 meters wide, opened to the public in 2018. Set inside Zabeel Park (Gate 4), it’s designed so you see “Old Dubai” (Deira, Dubai Creek) on one side and “New Dubai” (Downtown skyline with Burj Khalifa) on the other. A high-speed elevator takes you to the Sky Deck with 360° views, interactive exhibits, and a clear glass walkway that turns transparent beneath your feet.
What You’ll See
The experience unfolds in three parts: a Past Dubai Gallery (immersive multimedia on the ground level), the Sky Deck with panoramic views and a glass-floor strip, and a Future Dubai Tunnel with light and sound projections as you exit. Plan roughly 45–75 minutes for a relaxed visit.
Why It’s Popular
Besides the vantage point, the Frame is one of Dubai’s most photogenic icons. It’s family-friendly, largely step-free with elevators, and pairs easily with a city tour or Dubai Creek stops. Sunset/blue hour slots are the most dramatic for photos.
Brief History & Timeline
- 2009–2013 — Design concept gains traction: a frame capturing “old” and “new” Dubai in a single view.
- Mid-2010s — Construction progresses in Zabeel Park with twin towers connected by a sky bridge.
- Jan 2018 — Dubai Frame opens to visitors with Past/Present/Future exhibit flow.
- 2019–2025 — Ongoing popularity; evening lighting effects and seasonal hours make it a staple in city tours.
Tours & Ticket Options
Standard Entry (Sky Deck Access)
Timed entry includes elevator ride to the Sky Deck, 360° viewpoints, and the glass-floor strip. Perfect if you want a flexible, self-guided visit.
City Tour + Dubai Frame
Combine the Frame with a guided city tour covering highlights such as Dubai Creek, souks, and the Blue Mosque-style Jumeirah Mosque. Ideal if you’re short on time and want context.
Museum of the Future + Frame
A modern icons combo: delve into future tech exhibits, then head to the Frame for skyline panoramas—great for first-time visitors.
Family/Friends Combos
Pair the Frame with seasonal favorites like Miracle Garden or Global Village for a full day of photos and entertainment.
Good to know: Ticket inclusions and hours can vary by date/season. Many options offer mobile vouchers and free cancellation up to 24 hours—always check your product page.
What You’ll Experience Inside
Past → Present → Future
Start with an immersive Past Dubai gallery (old trading routes, creek life, souks), ascend to the Sky Deck for views toward both old and new cityscapes, then exit via a playful Future Dubai tunnel with projection mapping and soundscapes.
- Sky Deck views: See Deira/Creek one way; Downtown/Burj Khalifa the other.
- Glass walkway: A switchable transparent strip adds a gentle thrill.
- Photo spots: Framed skyline views and evening light shows on the façade.
Spot These Details
Look for wayfinding graphics that label landmarks on the windows. Exhibits explain how Dubai grew from a creek-side port to a global city—use them for quick context before the views.
Photography: Non-flash photos are generally fine; drones, tripods, and large stabilizers are restricted. Be mindful on the glass strip and give others space.
Insider Tips
Best Time
Sunset to blue hour offers warm skyline colors and city lights. For fewer crowds, try weekday mornings.
How Long
Most visits take 45–75 minutes. Add time if you’re doing combo tours or waiting for sunset.
Pair with Nearby Sights
Combine with a Dubai Creek abra ride and the Gold & Spice Souks, or with modern icons along Sheikh Zayed Road for a “then & now” theme day.
Visitor Cheatsheet
Opening Hours
Typically 10:00–21:00 (seasonal extensions common). Last entry ~30–45 minutes before closing.
Address
Zabeel Park, Gate 4 (Star Gate), Dubai. Taxis/rideshare are the fastest; parking available inside the park.
Getting There
Metro: Al Jafiliya (MRed) + short taxi/walk. Buses serve Zabeel area; check live timings in RTA app.
Tickets & Pricing
Official listings often show adults around AED ~50; children 3–12 AED ~20; under-3 free. Always confirm current prices on your chosen product page.
Accessibility
Elevators to the Sky Deck; most routes are step-free. People of Determination may have complimentary access (check policy).
Rules & Essentials
Security screening at entry; large bags restricted. Dress for air-conditioning; keep a light layer handy in summer.
Ready to Visit the Dubai Frame?
Choose entry tickets or a combo tour, aim for sunset, and enjoy one of Dubai’s best viewpoints—framing the city’s past and present.
