Dubai's skyline is an experience like no other – a vision of the future with awe-inspiring views where iconic buildings vie for your attention. Amidst the towering structures and architectural wonders, two experiences stand out for their sky-high adventure: Dubai Frame and Burj Khalifa. Both provide eye-popping views, novel experiences, and an additional insight into the heart of Dubai. But if you can only experience one sky-high activity, which do you pick?
Let's analyze and contrast these two must-visit sights in depth.
Dubai Frame: A Bridge Between Past and Future
History & Concept:
Opened in January 2018, the Dubai Frame was designed as a symbolic connection between the old and the new. Architect Fernando Donis conceived the idea of a "frame" that would allow the public to view the city's changing skyline. The north side takes in views of Old Dubai (Deira, Karama), and the south side frames New Dubai (Downtown, Burj Khalifa, Marina). It reaches 150 meters in height and 93 meters in width, placing it at the world's largest picture frame.
Location: Zabeel Park, Dubai
What to Expect: Museum & Gallery: Begin your journey in the museum at the base, where exhibits showcase Dubai’s rich past with immersive multimedia displays.
Sky Deck: Ride the elevator to the top to reach the 93-meter-long glass Sky Bridge. The glass-floored walkway is not for the faint of heart, but it offers an exhilarating view of the city.
Future Zone: On the way back down, stop by the futuristic gallery that shows Dubai 50 years from now through augmented reality.
Dubai Frame Tickets:
Ticket price of Dubai Frame:
Adults: AED 50
Children between 3-12 years: AED 20
Kids below 3 & People of determination: Free
Optimum time to visit: Sunset time for golden observations from both sides of Dubai. Get the best ticket price for Dubai Frame here.
Fun Fact: From the ideal viewpoint at eye level, the Burj Khalifa stands in the very center of the Dubai Frame, doing justice to its name in all respects.
Burj Khalifa: Touching the Skies
History & Legacy:
Standing at a height of 828 meters, Burj Khalifa is the world's tallest building. It was opened in 2010 and took six years to construct; it remains a symbol of architectural excellence worldwide. Adrian Smith is the designer, and the Hymenocallis flower has inspired its design.
Location: Downtown Dubai, next to The Dubai Mall
What to Expect:
At The Top – Level 124 & 125: Provides 360° views with floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor terrace access.
At The Top SKY – Level 148 (VIP Experience): The globe's highest viewing platform at 555 meters high.
Multimedia exhibits & express elevator: Travel up in less than a minute.
Add-ons: Entry to The Lounge (levels 152–154), or dine in style at At.mosphere on Level 122.
Burj Khalifa Ticket Prices:
At the Top (124 & 125): From AED 179 (off-prime hours)
Sky (148 + 124/125): From AED 399
Prime time slots (sunset): They cost more, but are worth the view.
Fun Fact: You can watch the sunset twice – once from the base and again at the top, thanks to the building’s height!
Dubai Frame vs. Burj Khalifa: Comparison at a Glance
Height
Dubai Frame: 150 meters
Burj Khalifa: 828 meters (world’s tallest building)
Viewpoint Experience
Dubai Frame: Dual views of Old Dubai and New Dubai from the Sky Deck
Burj Khalifa: Panoramic 360° city views from multiple observation decks
Main Highlight
Dubai Frame: Glass skywalk + immersive museum experience
Burj Khalifa: Highest observation deck + luxury lounges + fast elevators
Ticket Price
Dubai Frame: AED 50 (adults), AED 20 (kids)
Burj Khalifa: Starts at AED 179 (standard), AED 399+ for Level 148 access
Cultural Element
Dubai Frame: Strong storytelling of Dubai’s past, present, and future
Burj Khalifa: Focused on modern luxury and architectural achievement
Time Required for Visit
Dubai Frame: 1 to 1.5 hours
Burj Khalifa: 1.5 to 2 hours
Best Time to Visit
Dubai Frame: Late afternoon for sunset over both cityscapes
Burj Khalifa: Sunset for golden views or night for city lights
Accessibility & Crowd
Dubai Frame: Less crowded, ideal for families
Burj Khalifa: Often crowded, especially during prime hours
Ideal For
Dubai Frame: Cultural enthusiasts, families, budget-conscious travelers
Burj Khalifa: First-time visitors, luxury seekers, architecture lovers
Which One is Worth It?
Choose Dubai Frame if you’re looking for an affordable, quick, and family-friendly experience with a strong cultural narrative. It’s a great way to appreciate the city’s past, present, and future in one visit.
Choose the Burj Khalifa if you desire a luxurious, one-time experience with breathtaking city views from the world's tallest structure. It's ideal for travelers who prefer not to splurge for the sake of bragging rights.
Final Verdict
Both landmarks provide unforgettable vistas, but for different reasons. If you have budget and time, do them both – each shows a different aspect of Dubai's character. But if you have only one to choose from, make it a reflection of your interests:
Affectionate of history and narration? Opt for Dubai Frame tickets.
Need luxury and the world's best view? Burj Khalifa is your choice.
Book In Advance with CollectYourTicket
Get your Dubai Frame tickets or Burj Khalifa access passes in advance through CollectYourTicket to skip the queues, grab discounted bundles, and secure the best time slots. Don’t miss out on Dubai’s finest views!
