Dubai Frame: Entry Ticket with Glass Sky Deck Access

4.67

(6 reviews)

What’s the experience like?

We stepped out of the taxi and there it was — the Dubai Frame just kind of towering over us, gold panels catching the sun. I remember my friend nudging me because I was standing there gawking like a tourist (which, fair enough). The entrance was smooth — just scanned our tickets and we were inside. There’s this faint scent of something sweet in the air, maybe dates or some bakery nearby? Anyway, you start by wandering through these exhibits about old Dubai. It’s not stuffy at all — there are little videos, photos from when it was just sand and fishing boats. Our guide, Khaled, pointed out his grandfather in one of the black-and-white photos. He seemed proud but also a bit embarrassed by our attention.

Then came the elevator ride up to the sky deck. My ears popped a little on the way — it’s quick. The doors open and suddenly you’re surrounded by glass and light, with new Dubai stretching out on one side (all those wild skyscrapers) and old Dubai on the other. The glass floor is… well, let’s just say I hesitated before stepping onto it. Some kids ran across laughing; I shuffled after them, trying not to look straight down at first. You can see tiny cars moving below — it messes with your sense of height in a weirdly fun way. I tried to take a photo but my hands were actually shaking a bit (don’t judge). Khaled told us how locals use this spot to explain the city’s changes to their own kids.

I didn’t expect to spend so long just looking out at both sides — you really get why they call it a frame. There’s something about seeing old minarets lined up with brand-new towers that sticks with you longer than you’d think. We lingered longer than planned; nobody rushed us out or anything. On our way down, someone offered us some cardamom coffee near the exit — I still think about that taste mixed with all those city smells outside.