Inside The Dubai Frame
Stepping Into the World’s Largest Picture Frame: The Dubai Frame
Dubai has a talent for turning ambitious ideas into dazzling landmarks, and the Dubai Frame is a perfect example. Rising 150 meters into the sky, this golden structure isn’t just another modern marvel—it’s officially recognized as the largest frame in the world. And yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like: a colossal picture frame designed to capture the essence of Dubai’s past, present, and future in a single breathtaking view.
A little backstory: The Dubai Frame opened its doors to the public in January 2018 after nearly a decade in the making. The concept was originally chosen through an international design competition launched by ThyssenKrupp Elevator Architecture in 2009. Out of over 900 proposals, the winning design came from Mexican architect Fernando Donis, who envisioned a simple yet bold structure that could quite literally frame the city. The purpose was clear—to give visitors a new perspective on Dubai by allowing them to see both sides of its story: the historic neighborhoods of Deira and Karama on one side, and the glittering skyscrapers of Downtown Dubai and beyond on the other.
Visiting the Dubai Frame is an experience that blends architecture, storytelling, and a touch of thrill. After entering the base, you’re taken on a journey that begins with a gallery dedicated to Dubai’s past. Through multimedia exhibits, projections, and sound effects, you step into the city’s history, from desert beginnings to bustling souks. From there, an elevator carries you up to the Sky Deck, where a glass-floored walkway stretches between the two towers. Walking across is not for the faint of heart, but it rewards you with 360-degree views that showcase the “two Dubais” side by side—the old and the new—perfectly framed by the golden structure.
The descent takes you into the “Future Dubai” gallery, an immersive space filled with virtual reality and innovative displays that offer a glimpse of what the city could look like decades from now. The entire visit feels like a time capsule, allowing you to step back, stand still, and then leap forward into Dubai’s ever-evolving story.
One of the most enjoyable things about the Dubai Frame is how accessible it is. Located in Zabeel Park, it’s surrounded by greenery, making it a refreshing break from the city’s fast pace. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike find it a fun and surprisingly affordable attraction, and the sheer scale of it makes for photos you’ll want to frame back home.
The Dubai Frame is more than just another record-breaking landmark. It’s a thoughtful creation designed to highlight contrasts and connections—between tradition and innovation, memory and aspiration. Standing there, gazing out from the top, you realize that it doesn’t just frame the city—it frames your own experience of Dubai.
My Tips for Visiting the Dubai Frame
If you’re planning to add the Dubai Frame to your itinerary, a few insider tips will help you make the most of the experience. The attraction is located in Zabeel Park, making it easy to reach by taxi or Metro, with the nearest station being Al Jafiliya on the Red Line. Since entry to the Frame requires a ticket, note that it also includes access to the park itself. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the gate, but booking early is always a good idea during weekends and peak tourist seasons.
The best time to visit is either in the morning, when crowds are lighter and the desert sunlight creates crystal-clear views, or just before sunset, when you can watch the city transition from day to night. This timing also gives you the chance to capture the skyline glowing golden on one side and slowly lighting up with skyscrapers on the other—a photographer’s dream.
Once inside, don’t rush through the exhibits at the base. The multimedia displays about Dubai’s past are not only engaging but also give context to what you’ll see from the Sky Deck above. And when you do reach the glass walkway at the top, take a deep breath before stepping onto it—the view of the city below your feet is both exhilarating and a little nerve-wracking. If you’re not up for walking across the glass, you can still enjoy incredible panoramic views from the solid flooring nearby.
Families with children will find the Frame a fun, educational stop, while couples often love the photo opportunities it provides. Just remember to bring a fully charged phone or camera—every angle of the Frame, both inside and out, begs to be captured. For the ultimate shot, step back into Zabeel Park after your visit and frame the Frame itself against Dubai’s skyline.
My only regret is that I didn’t take more pictures. :(
