Dubai Frame is Set for completion in Q4 2016

It is predicted that it will become a major tourist destination in the city – one of the buildings, like the Burj Khalifa and the Burj Al Arab, that all visitors to Dubai will feel they need to see.

Two giant pillars are rising fast in the middle of Dubai, with many onlookers unaware of their significance.

Once complete, the pillars will serve as the sides of The Dubai Frame, a massive iconic project shaped like a giant window frame.

As of the last update from Dubai Municipality (around three weeks ago), the Dh160 million project is 80 per cent complete and is expected to be ready by December. It is taking shape near the Star Gate games and rides area of Zabeel Park, nestled between Bur Dubai and Shaikh Zayed Road.

As its name suggests, The Dubai Frame will frame views of the city, allowing a scene of Old Dubai from one side and the New Dubai skyline from another. The oversized rectangle will serve as a giant 150 metre by 93 metre viewfinder.

There will also be a viewing gallery on the top side of the frame — the sky bridge — offering panoramic views. An elevator made of glass will offer unobstructed views as visitors travel up and down the sides of the frame.

The site for the landmark tourist and leisure attraction was chosen after extensive surveys of what location would offer the best views of new Dubai and old Dubai through the frame.

The municipality has said the frame is “unique” both in terms of its objectives and design. Officials hope it will draw 2,000,000 visitors a year, joining a long list of iconic Dubai landmarks recognised internationally, such as the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower; and the Burj Al Arab, a seven-star hotel built like a ship’s sail.

Those two attractions, as well as other skyscrapers, major maritime projects and coastal features, will be captured in the frame of view when the Dubai Frame is complete. From the other side, visitors will be able to see Old Dubai areas such as Al Karama, Umm Hurair, Bur Dubai and Deira.

At ground level, there will be multimedia presentations telling the story of Dubai’s rapid transformation from a small fishing and trading town by the sea to a modern metropolis with all its trappings. A museum of sorts for old and new Dubai will showcase relics and objects representing the past and present of the city.

There will also be a cafe at the top, offering stunning views while guests have refreshments.