A Travel Guide to the Dubai Frame
Visiting Dubai means ticking off many items on your bucket list in just one trip.
A city designed to wow its visitors, Dubai is filled with attractions that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. One of these is the famous Dubai Frame.
But more than being the largest frame in the world, this attraction is also symbolic because it’s positioned between the Old and New Dubai to give a glimpse of its past and future.
In this guide, we’ll let you in on all the important details about the Dubai Frame.
What is the Dubai Frame?
The Dubai Frame is a massive 150-meter frame structure standing in the middle of Zabeel Park.
In 2019 alone, this landmark was visited by over 17 million tourists making it one of the most popular attractions in Dubai.
The Dubai Frame came to be when the government started a design contest for a landmark that will symbolize Dubai’s past, present and future.
More than 926 proposals came from around the world, but the frame design by Fernando Donis won the 2009 ThyssenKrupp Elevator International Award.
When asked how he came up with the design, Donis explained that Dubai didn’t need another building to add to its already massive lineup of structures.
So instead, he wanted to build a frame with a void of 150 meters by 105 meters to frame the entire city.
The location was perfectly chosen since you see Old Dubai on one side and New Dubai on the other.
Hyder Consulting took over the project while Al Rostamani Pegel was the contractor.
The structure is made with steel, aluminum, glass and reinforced concrete that it glimmers when hit by the sun and still visible during the night.
Completed in 2018, the Dubai Frame is an observatory and museum where you can learn all about the city.
Best Time to Go
The Dubai Frame is open for visitors daily. But if you want to avoid the crowd, it’s best to visit the landmark right before it opens.
On the other hand, if you’re after seeing the city skyline at night from the observatory, you can go right before the building closes.
Just make sure to check the Dubai Frame’s timings if you’re visiting during Ramadan.
Things to Know
To make your trip to the Dubai Frame more productive, here are some things that you should know first:
- Daily schedule
The Dubai Frame is open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily, although timings may vary during Ramadan and other holidays.
The building, however, accepts its last guests only until 8:30 PM.
- Tickets
Admission fees to the Dubai Frame are AED 50 for adults and AED 20 for children 3 to 12 years old.
Children under 3 and people of determination and those with two companions can enter the landmark for free.
Although you can get tickets right at the building, it’s best to book ahead online to make sure that you get entry, especially if you’re traveling as a group.
- Rules
The Dubai Frame has a set of rules that guests need to follow for a safe and enjoyable visit:
- No food or beverages allowed.
- Wear appropriate clothing. Revealing clothes are not allowed for both men and women.
- Always watch your kids inside the observatory.
- Never touch or remove anything on display.
- Never climb over or lean on any railing.
- Large bags and strollers are not allowed inside the building but you can leave them at the Gate 4 counter.
How to Get Around
Trains: If you’re taking the Metro to the Dubai Frame, choose the Red Line and stop at the Al Jafiliya Metro Station. From here, you can walk to the Dubai Frame for a few minutes.
Buses: If you’re traveling by bus, ride the Bus F09, which stops at the Dubai Frame Bus Station right next to the landmark.
Taxis: If you prefer traveling by car, book a taxi through Careem or Uber that will take you to the Dubai Frame from anywhere in the city.
Car service: You can choose to rent a chauffeured or self-drive car service to explore the Dubai Frame and the attractions nearby.
Where to Stay Near the Dubai Frame
The Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai
Address: Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street Opposite Burjuman Center – Bur Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 377 1111
Pricing: $$$
Book Now
Ideally located in Central Dubai, the Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel is right where you can experience both the city’s history and modernity.
With 384 spacious rooms and suites, the hotel is known for offering top quality service as well as amenities like its famous rooftop pool, restaurants, lounges and bars.
The Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel is also just a few minutes away from important landmarks like the Dubai Frame, Dubai Creek, Dubai Museum and World Trade Exhibition Center.
Sofitel Dubai the Obelisk
Address: Wafi – Sheikh Rashid Road – Umm Hurair 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 324 9999
Pricing: $$$
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Treat yourself to a five-star stay at Sofitel Dubai the Obelisk with its signature French meets Egyptian interiors and world-class hospitality.
This hotel stands tall at the heart of Wafi City where you can choose from 498 hotel rooms and suites or 96 luxury residences if you’re staying longer.
Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk also boasts of panoramic views of the Creek, Old Dubai and the city skyline.
It’s also attached to the WAFI Mall where you can shop to your heart’s content and it has several restaurants and bars to satisfy your cravings.
DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai M Square Hotel and Residences
Address: Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street – Al Mankhool – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 217 5100
Pricing: $$$
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If you prefer to be near Dubai’s historic district while enjoying the comforts of a modern hotel, the DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai M Square Hotel and Residences is the perfect place to be.
Decked in modern amenities like an outdoor pool, restaurant, spa and fitness center, you’re guaranteed excellent value during your stay at this hotel.
Plus, you can take advantage of the hotel’s concierge service to plan your itinerary, so you can make the most of your holiday in Dubai.
Sheraton Grand Hotel Dubai
Address: 3 Sheikh Zayed Road – Trade Center – Trade Center 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 503 444
Pricing: $$$
Book Now
In true Marriott style, the Sheraton Grand Hotel Dubai has everything you need for a relaxing holiday in Dubai.
Located near major attractions including the Dubai Frame, Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, the hotel puts you right where the action is, so you can maximize your time.
The Sheraton Grand Hotel also has several restaurants, a luxury spa and a rooftop pool for the ultimate treat.
The H Dubai
Address: 1 Sheikh Zayed Road – Trade Center – Trade Center 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 501 8888
Pricing: $$$
Book Now
The H Dubai is another modern hotel located right near some of the city’s top landmarks like the Dubai Frame, Museum of the Future and Dubai Mall.
The hotel has 263 rooms, suites and apartments to suit your preferences and the award-winning Mandara Spa if you want to treat yourself to a day of pampering after a busy day.
Where to Eat Near the Dubai Frame
Zam Zam Mandi Restaurant
Address: 133 Sheikh Rashid Road – Al Karama – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 392 2215
Pricing: $$
Website
It’s called the “world’s favorite place for Arabic food” for a reason, and locals highly recommend visiting Zam Zam Mandi Restaurant if you’re going to the Dubai Frame.
A few minutes away from the landmark, this restaurant is known for serving authentic traditional food including its famous Chicken Madghout.
Sallet Al Sayad Seafood Restaurant
Address: Al Shafar Bin Abdulah – 46 47 C Street – Al Karama – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 335 5722
Pricing: $$
If you’re craving for good seafood after exploring the Dubai Frame, Sallet Al Sayad Seafood Restaurant is one of the best places nearby.
Known for its delicious dishes and topnotch service, this place is highly recommended by locals and tourists.
Saleem’s of Delhi
Address: Al Karama – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 5 558 95052
Pricing: $$
Serving authentic Mughlai Indian food in a cozy setting, Saleem’s of Delhi has been a favorite dining spot near the Dubai Frame.
Here, you have the option to dine indoors or al fresco while enjoying dishes like kebabs, masalas and tikkas.
Yamanote Atelier Uptown Mirdif
Address: Mirdif Hills Avenue – Mirdif – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 5 859 67006
Pricing: $$$
Website
If you want to enjoy a good cup of coffee, good food and some baked treats, head to the famous Yamanote Atelier in Mirdif Hills.
This artisanal Japanese cafe and bakery started in the UAE in 2013 and has since been a favorite among locals and tourists who have tried it.
Here, you can enjoy breakfast offerings like their famous Egg Benedict Cube, mains like their Arabiata and Katsu Chicken Curry, and of course, their many baked goods.
Yamanote Atelier is known for its delicious croissants, doughnuts and pastries paired with its wide range of coffees and beverages.
What to Do in the Dubai Frame
Take a Photo
It is the world’s largest picture frame, after all, so it’s only fitting that you take a photo with the Dubai Frame.
Experts say that if you want to capture the frame in all its golden glory, it’s best to visit during the golden hours, which is the time right after sunrise or before sunset.
This will give you the best lighting conditions to take excellent photos with the frame.
Learn About Dubai’s History at the Old Dubai Gallery
Stepping inside the Dubai Frame, you’ll be greeted by the Old Dubai Gallery that tells the story of how the city began.
Here, you’ll find different exhibits showing life in Dubai when it was just a humble fishing village and displays of artifacts that give a glimpse of the city’s past.
See the Present and Future Dubai Galleries
As you continue to explore the building, you’ll be led to the Present Dubai Gallery that showcases the city’s progress throughout the years.
Here, you’ll see exhibits and shows that tell the story of how Dubai grew from a small fishing village into a mammoth city.
Then, you can also explore the Future Dubai Gallery, which has all the plans and vision of the city for the next 50 years.
See the City from the Sky Deck
The highlight of your visit to the Dubai Frame has to be the Sky Deck, which is an observatory where you can see the entire Dubai skyline from above.
A 75-second elevator ride will take you to the bridge where you get to see the city from a glass panel including a glass floor if you’re not afraid of heights.
Explore Zabeel Park
The Dubai Frame is only one of the attractions at Zabeel Park, so maximize your visit by exploring what the rest of the park has to offer.
Here, you can check out attractions including:
- The Dinosaur Park
- Dubai Garden Glow
- Children’s Play Area
- Cricket Ground
- Boat Ride
Where to Shop Near the Dubai Frame
The Dubai Mall
Address: Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 800 382 246 255
Website
If you’re planning to do some serious shopping after visiting the Dubai Frame, head to the Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai, the largest mall in the city and one of the largest in the world.
This massive shopping mall has more than 1,200 shops covering 502,000 square meters of space.
The mall also has a long list of cafes, restaurants and entertainment spaces for you to enjoy.
Of course, you can’t miss the other attractions within and near the mall like the Dubai Aquarium, the Dubai Fountain Show and the Burj Khalifa.
Dubai Festival City Mall
Address: Crescent Road – Dubai Festival City – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 800 332
Website
If you want to explore a more local mall, head to Dubai Festival City Mall just a few minutes away from the Dubai Frame.
With more than 400 shops, the mall has everything you need to enjoy a great shopping experience with brands like Zara, Nike and Ikea having stores in this area.
Of course, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to the mall’s list of restaurants, eateries and cafes where you can fill your tummy after a tiring day exploring the city.
The Dubai Festival City Mall is also home to Bounce-X, the first freestyle terrain park in the world and Bricobilandia for kids who want to build bricks to their heart’s content.
What to Expect from Weather in the Dubai Frame
Winter: Dubai enjoys the best weather from December to March during the winter season where temperatures can go down to 16 degrees Celsius. This is the best time to go around the city and spend time outdoors, especially in Zabeel Park where the Dubai Frame is located.
Summer: Dubai summers that run from June to September are extremely hot. So, if you plan to explore the outdoors, don’t go during summer when temperatures can reach up to 50 degrees Celsius.
Transition period: From April to May and October to November, Dubai goes through a transition period in between the seasons. During this time, the weather can be very unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared.
Apps to Download When Visiting the Dubai Frame
Visit Dubai: The official portal for tourism in Dubai where you can find useful information about its top tourist spots including the Dubai Frame
iOs | Android
RTA Dubai Drive: Makes it easy for you to navigate your way around Dubai with its detailed maps, parking and other related information
iOs | Android
Uber: Booking a car for going around the city with ease
iOs | Android
Careem: An alternative to Uber for booking a private car
iOs | Android