Dubai is the undisputed leader in pushing the boundaries of architecture. Not only will you find the tallest building in the world, record-breaking Aquaventure Waterpark, and the largest flower arrangement ever, but you’ll also discover a frame of extraordinary proportions.
Dubai Frame, located in Zabeel Park, is an iconic structure and one of the most famous attractions in the city and the entire United Arab Emirates. It’s no wonder that this building, shaped like a golden frame, enjoys such immense popularity. After all, it’s not every day that a city’s skyline features a monumental mirror, blending a tribute to the past with a bold look toward the future.
How did Dubai’s picture frame come about?
The project, completed in 2018, was the winning design in a competition organized by the ThyssenKrupp Elevator International Award in 2009. The idea for such an unusual structure truly impressed the jury, as it was selected from among 926 proposals. The award-winning concept came from Fernando Donis, an architect who envisioned Dubai as a city filled with symbols and architectural emblems.
To avoid adding another element to Dubai’s already rich skyline, architect Fernando Donis decided to frame it instead, creating a structure where the main feature is the empty space, capturing the city’s past, present, and future within a single view.
Dubai Frame Through the Eyes of the Architect
Dubai Frame stands at 150 meters tall and 95 meters wide. To create a structure of such immense proportions, over 9,900 m³ of reinforced concrete, 2,000 tons of steel, and 2,900 m² of laminated glass were used. The dazzling shine of the frame is achieved with more than 15,000 m² of stainless steel coated in gold. The design inspiration for Dubai Frame came from the logo selected for Dubai Expo 2020. The main attraction of the structure is its Sky Deck, located on the 48th floor. Believe it or not, you’ll reach this observation level in just 75 seconds via the high-speed elevator!
The dimensions of the giant frame are not coincidental. They incorporate another golden element: the “golden ratio”, which is the ratio of the shorter to the longer section, approximately 1.618. Since ancient times, this proportion has been considered a hallmark of aesthetic harmony in art and architecture. Famous artists like Da Vinci and Dalí employed the golden ratio in their works, and in the early 21st century, architect Fernando Donis followed this tradition. The rectangular structure of Dubai Frame embodies this divine proportion, and it is said that it owes its perfect structural balance to this principle.
Sky Deck Observation Terrace
The upper corridor connecting the two identical towers is made of gigantic glass panels, transforming the terrace into an ideal observation point. From here, visitors can capture the most breathtaking views of Dubai’s skyline. This panoramic experience is the primary reason why the majority of tourists visit Dubai Frame. Whether you visit during the day with sunlight illuminating the city or at night when the skyline glows with vibrant lights, you won’t be disappointed.
As soon as you step onto the terrace, you’ll realize that Sky Deck offers more than just stunning views of Dubai. The bridge, made from liquid crystal, is coated with a special film activated by sensors. This means the floor becomes transparent under the feet of those walking across it. While this might evoke a sense of fear in some, others will feel a thrilling rush of adrenaline. Regardless, the sensation of walking almost in mid-air is an unforgettable experience that you’ll carry with you long after your visit.
FUN FACT: The view from the top of Dubai Frame offers a unique perspective, dividing the city into two contrasting parts. On one side, you’ll see the futuristic skyscrapers symbolizing Dubai’s rapid development and ambition. In contrast, the other side presents the old city, showcasing the traditional, historic part of Dubai—something not easily seen from many other locations.
Inside Dubai Frame
Did you know that your ticket to Dubai Frame is also a ticket to a time machine? In addition to the stunning Sky Deck, you should take time to explore the museum space within the building. Located on the ground floor, the exhibition uses cutting-edge technology and special effects to tell the story of Dubai’s transformation. It’s an interactive journey through the city’s heritage, illustrating how a small fishing village evolved into one of the most luxurious destinations in the world. This multisensory experience engages not only your sight but also your sense of sound and smell, immersing you in the city’s vibrant past.
After the glass corridor, which represents the city’s present, you’ll be led into a tunnel that propels you into the future. Visual and audio effects guide you to a vision of Dubai in the year 2070. Here, you’ll encounter a world of flying vehicles, underwater cities, artificial intelligence, and even space travel—a futuristic journey that’s bound to leave a lasting impression.
Zabeel Park
While Dubai Frame is undoubtedly the star attraction, Zabeel Park itself offers plenty of reasons to visit. As one of the largest parks in Dubai, and one of the first technology-driven green spaces in the region, Zabeel Park sprawls over an impressive area equal to 45 football fields. It serves as a major entertainment hub, even though the once-famous Star Gate park is no longer operational. The park continues to be a vibrant space with multiple installations and activities perfect for both relaxation and fun.
Scattered across different zones of the park, you’ll find barbecue and picnic areas, restaurants, fountains, walking trails, a fitness center, and excellent jogging paths. You can also enjoy mini-golf, cricket, rollerblading, or skateboarding at the skatepark. The park often features live music and hosts large exhibitions like Dubai Garden Glow during the cooler months, while the Mega Bowl amphitheater, galleries, and various sculptures are open year-round for visitors to explore and enjoy.
A Few Useful Tips
If you’re planning to see Dubai’s most iconic landmarks, Dubai Frame is certainly a must-visit. However, it may not be the ideal spot for those with fear of heights. The transparent floor of the Sky Deck, while completely safe, might cause anxiety for some visitors. But for those willing to push through, the views and experience are absolutely worth it!
Kupując bilet wstępu, rozważcie także zakup audioprzewodnika. Dzięki niemu oglądając panoramę miasta, możecie usłyszeć całą moc ciekawostek na temat atrakcji i różnych stref miasta. Przydatną opcją dla tych, którzy planują zobaczyć z bliska inne architektoniczne emblematy Dubaju będzie zakup biletów łączonych. Dzięki takiemu rozwiązaniu zaoszczędzicie co nieco wchodząc do Burj Khalifa, Miracle Garden czy Muzeum Przyszłości. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, charge your camera, and prepare for some queues. To avoid long waits, it’s best to book tickets in advance.
When purchasing your entry ticket, consider getting an audio guide, which will enhance your experience with interesting facts about the city’s landmarks. For those planning to visit other top attractions like Burj Khalifa, Miracle Garden, or the Museum of the Future, you might want to explore combo ticket options – a great way to save money while visiting multiple sites.
Practical information
- It is best to purchase tickets for the Dubai Frame in advance. This way, you can avoid standing in long lines and reduce the risk of tickets being sold out.
- Address: Zabeel Park Jogging Track – Za’abeel – Al Kifaf – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Buy tickets on GetYourGuide
