Overview
The Dubai Frame is a golden, rectangular structure about 150 m tall and 95 m wide, built in Zabeel Park. It stands between the old districts of Deira and Bur Dubai on one side and the modern towers of Downtown on the other, and it was designed to frame the city's past and future. A lift takes visitors up to a sky bridge between the two towers.
From the bridge, you see the old creek-side districts in one direction and the Burj Khalifa and the skyline in the other, with a glass floor under your feet in one section. The base of the frame has a small museum about the history of Dubai and a light-and-sound show about its future. The park around it is good for a stroll, and the frame is easy to combine with a visit to the old city.
Highlights
- The sky bridge, with views of old and new Dubai
- The glass-floored section of the walkway
- The history exhibit at the base
- A short walk in Zabeel Park
Best time to visit
November to March is the best time. Visit in the morning or late afternoon when the light is softer, and on a clear day for good views. Summers are hot, though the frame and its lifts are air-conditioned.
- JanJanuary: Best
- FebFebruary: Best
- MarMarch: Best
- AprApril: Good
- MayMay: Not ideal
- JunJune: Not ideal
- JulJuly: Not ideal
- AugAugust: Not ideal
- SepSeptember: Not ideal
- OctOctober: Good
- NovNovember: Best
- DecDecember: Best
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Dubai (DXB), about 20 minutes by taxi. The Dubai metro runs to Al Jafiliya or Al Karama stations, a short walk or taxi ride from the frame. Buy a ticket online to save time.
What to expect
The visit takes about an hour. The lift and the sky bridge can have queues at weekends, and the glass floor is optional. Zabeel Park charges a small entry fee and has cafes and playgrounds.
Practical tips
- Book a ticket for late afternoon to see both the day view and the lights coming on.
- Check the opening times and any maintenance closures before you set out.
- Combine with Al Fahidi and the creek for a day of old and new Dubai.
- Photography is allowed, but tripods and drones are not.
Frequently asked questions
How tall is the Dubai Frame?
About 150 m, with a sky bridge at the top.
Is the glass floor safe?
Yes, it is made for visitors, though some people find it uncomfortable. You can walk around it.
How long do I need?
About an hour, including the museum and the lift.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
- Visit Abu Dhabi, the official tourism website
- Visit Dubai, the official tourism website
- UAE government portal: visas and entry
- UK government travel advice: United Arab Emirates
Photos
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Saaremees (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Richard N Horne (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
