Dubai Heritage Village: A Living Museum of Emirati Culture

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Dubai Frame: A Symbol of the City's Journey

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The Dubai Frame is one of the city’s most iconic modern landmarks, blending art, architecture, and heritage. Shaped like a massive picture frame, this structure uniquely captures the contrasting faces of Old Dubai and New Dubai, symbolizing the city’s incredible transformation from a desert trading port to a global metropolis.

📜 History and Concept

The concept of the Dubai Frame was first introduced in 2009 as part of a design competition by ThyssenKrupp Elevator Architecture Awards, won by Mexican architect Fernando Donis. The idea was to "frame" the city’s development rather than add another skyscraper. Construction began in 2013 and was completed in 2018.

  • Height: 150 meters

  • Width: 93 meters

  • Construction Cost: Approx. AED 230 million (US$62 million)

  • Materials: Glass, steel, aluminum, and reinforced concrete

It officially opened to the public on January 1, 2018, and quickly became one of Dubai’s top attractions.

 

🌟 Visitor Experience and Features

1. Ground Floor – Dubai’s Past:
The tour begins in a museum-style gallery showing Old Dubai, including multimedia exhibits on traditional life, souks, fishing villages, and the city’s early development.

2. Sky Deck – Dubai’s Present:
Elevators take you up 150 meters to a glass-floored Sky Deck, offering panoramic views:

  • North (Old Dubai): Views of Deira, Karama, and Dubai Creek.

  • South (New Dubai): Skyscrapers of Downtown Dubai, including Burj Khalifa.

The transparent glass walkway in the middle of the deck offers a thrilling perspective as you walk “above” the city.

3. Future Dubai Gallery:
After descending, visitors experience a futuristic presentation imagining Dubai 50 years into the future, using augmented reality and immersive visuals.

 

🧭 Travel Tips

  • Best Time to Visit:
    Just before sunset for the most dramatic views and photo opportunities.

  • Tickets:

    • Adults: ~AED 50

    • Children (3–12): ~AED 20

    • Free for children under 3 and People of Determination (with 2 companions)

    • Tickets can be bought online or at the gate.

  • Opening Hours:
    Daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM

  • Getting There:

    • Metro: Take the Red Line to Al Jafiliya Station, then a short walk to Zabeel Park, Gate 4.

    • Car/Taxi: Zabeel Park has ample parking.

  • Tips:

    • Avoid weekends or public holidays for smaller crowds.

    • Photography is allowed; bring a wide-angle lens for the best shots.

    • Dress modestly, as it's a family-friendly attraction.

       

 

📍 Nearby Attractions

  1. Zabeel Park

    • Surrounds the Dubai Frame; perfect for a picnic or leisurely walk. It also has boating lakes and playgrounds.

  2. Dubai Garden Glow (seasonal)

    • A luminous theme park with glowing installations, dinosaur park, and art displays.

  3. Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)

    • Events and exhibitions are often held here.

  4. Karama Market

    • A bustling bargain shopping district, ideal for souvenirs.

  5. Al Seef & Dubai Creek (10–15 minutes by car)

    • Offers a blend of heritage architecture, waterside dining, and traditional boat rides.

       


🏁 Conclusion The Dubai Frame isn’t just a photo op—it's a journey through time that celebrates the city’s heritage, marvels at its present, and envisions its future. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, the Frame offers a meaningful and visually stunning experience that encapsulates the essence of Dubai.