As the shimmering gold paint starts to appear across its sleek surface, the final innings of this Dubai landmark has the city and its residents eagerly counting down the home stretch.

The Dubai Frame, which was first announced two years ago, is nearing completion and is ready to open up its picturesque landscape later this year for a snapshot into the city of old on one side, and the glittering skyline that Burj Khalifa commands, on the other.