Dubai Frame vs AYA Universe: Traditional Views or Immersive Art Experience?

Dubai Frame vs AYA Universe: Traditional Views or Immersive Art Experience?

Wajeeha Amin

Wajeeha Amin

29 Nov 2025

- 4 min read

In this blog

    When visiting Dubai, you’re likely faced with the question: “What should I do next?” Two top attractions that often come up are the Dubai Frame and AYA Universe. Both are unique in their own way, but they offer entirely different experiences. 

    One lets you see Dubai’s skyline from a height, while the other immerses you in a world of interactive art. So, which one should you choose for your next adventure? Let’s explore both attractions and see what each one has to offer.

    Dubai Frame: A Window Into Dubai’s Past and Future

    The Dubai Frame is one of the most iconic places in Dubai. Standing at an impressive 150 meters (492 feet) tall, it’s shaped like a giant picture frame, offering stunning views of both old and new Dubai. The structure itself weighs around 9,000 tons and has become a symbol of the city’s transformation over the years.

    From the observation deck, visitors can enjoy 360-degree views of the city. To the north, you’ll see the modern skyline with towering skyscrapers like the Burj Khalifa. To the south, you can see old Dubai, with its traditional neighborhoods and the Dubai Creek. This contrast between the old and the new is one of the main attractions of the Dubai Frame.

    Best Attractions To Visit in Dubai

      • Billetter til Burj Khalifa i toppen på 124. og 125. etage i Dubai - Tripventura
      • Burj Khalifa observation deck
      • Billetter til Burj Khalifa i toppen på 124. og 125. etage i Dubai - Tripventura
      • Billetter til Burj Khalifa i toppen på 124. og 125. etage i Dubai - Tripventura
      • Billetter til Burj Khalifa i toppen på 124. og 125. etage i Dubai - Tripventura
      • Billetter til Burj Khalifa i toppen på 124. og 125. etage i Dubai - Tripventura

      Burj Khalifa 124-125. Kat Biletleri, Dubai

      Normalpris $60.00 USD
      Normalpris $61.00 USD Udsalgspris $60.00 USD
      Udsalg Udsolgt
      • Billet til Dubai Museum of the Future
      • Billet til Dubai Museum of the Future – Tripventura
      • Billet til Dubai Museum of the Future – Tripventura
      • Billet til Dubai Museum of the Future – Tripventura
      • Billet til Dubai Museum of the Future – Tripventura
      • Billet til Dubai Museum of the Future – Tripventura

      Billet til Dubai Museum of the Future

      Normalpris $108.63 USD
      Normalpris Udsalgspris $108.63 USD
      Udsalg Udsolgt

    One of the best parts of the Dubai Frame is the glass bridge at the top. The glass floor lets you look straight down, providing a heart-stopping view of the city below. If you’re not a fan of heights, this might feel a little intense, but it’s definitely an unforgettable experience.

    The Frame also offers a glimpse into Dubai’s past. On the ground floor, you’ll find exhibitions that showcase the city’s transformation from a small fishing village to the global metropolis it is today. You’ll learn about the Bedouin culture, Dubai’s early trade routes, and how the city’s architecture has evolved over the years.

    Fun Fact:

    • The Dubai Frame was completed in 2018 and cost about AED 400 million ($108 million) to build.

    • The glass bridge can hold up to 200 people at a time.

    dubai frame

    AYA Universe: A Journey Through Art and Technology

    Now, let’s talk about AYA Universe. This is an entirely different experience. Instead of just looking at views, AYA Universe immerses you in an interactive world of art and technology. Located in the heart of Dubai, AYA Universe brings art to life through light shows, interactive displays, and 3D projections.

    The experience is designed to engage all your senses. As you walk through different rooms, the art around you changes, and sometimes, even reacts to your movements. It’s a fully interactive experience, meaning that you are part of the artwork, not just an observer. The immersive art installations use advanced projection mapping and augmented reality to create stunning visual effects.

    The experience is divided into multiple themed zones, each offering a unique atmosphere and set of visuals. Whether it’s the flowing rivers of light or the abstract dreamscapes, each room is designed to evoke different emotions. It’s an art experience that feels more like stepping into another world than just visiting a gallery.

    Fun Fact:

    • AYA Universe is 3000 square meters (32,000 square feet) of immersive art, spread across multiple interactive rooms.

    • The experience uses more than 50 projectors to create stunning visuals that move and change as you interact with them.

    The Big Debate: Views vs. Art

    Now that we know what each place offers, let’s compare them to help you decide which experience suits your style better.

    1. If You Want Breathtaking Views
      The Dubai Frame offers one of the best views in Dubai. From the observation deck, you can see both old and new Dubai in a way that you can’t from any other location. It’s the ideal spot for travelers in Dubai who want to take in the city’s skyline and snap some stunning photos. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply love breathtaking views, the Dubai Frame delivers.

    1. If You Love Interactive Art and Technology
      AYA Universe, on the other hand, is for those who enjoy cutting-edge technology and immersive art experiences. It’s perfect if you want to engage with art in a way that feels alive and responsive. AYA Universe uses state-of-the-art technology to create an ever-changing environment around you, and it’s something that will surprise you at every turn.

      If you’re the type who enjoys being part of an experience rather than just watching it, AYA Universe is a must. The experience is not only fun but also educational for those who appreciate the intersection of technology and art.

    So, Which One Should You Choose?

    If you're someone who loves to capture beautiful views, learn about a city’s history, and experience a more traditional sightseeing attraction, the Dubai Frame is the way to go. It offers a stunning 360-degree view of Dubai’s skyline, along with fascinating exhibitions on how the city has transformed.

    On the other hand, if you prefer a fun, interactive experience that lets you step into a world of immersive art and technology, then AYA Universe is perfect for you. It’s an attraction that’s as much about the experience as it is about the art itself.

    Final Words

    Both attractions are incredible, but they cater to different interests. The Dubai Frame gives you an unforgettable view of Dubai, while AYA Universe offers an exciting, tech-driven art experience. Whether you're in the mood for panoramic city views or you want to step into an interactive, digital world, you can't go wrong with either choice.

    So, which one will you pick on your next trip to Dubai? Are you ready to admire the views from the Dubai Frame, or are you more excited to dive into the immersive world of AYA Universe? Either way, Dubai has something truly unique to offer.