Fiori Elements (RAP) vs Freestyle UI5 – Best fit for complex UI with IconTabs and F4 help?

[ArunJacob]

Dear Experts,

We are evaluating whether to go for Fiori Elements using RAP (OData V4) or a Freestyle SAPUI5 application for a new requirement.

Here’s the context:

• OData V4 service is already available, built using the ABAP RAP model.

• The required UI layout includes:

  • A custom header at the top

  • A SplitApp layout below

  • On the right pane, multiple IconTab filters

  • Input fields with F4 Help inside each tab

Given the flexibility needed in the layout and UI interactions (especially for SplitApp and F4 integration inside tabs), I’m trying to decide whether this is better suited for:

🔹 Fiori Elements + RAP + Annotations + Custom sections (Flexible Programming Model)
or
🔹 Freestyle SAPUI5 with smart controls or custom controls

Questions:

1. Would Fiori Elements (Object Page or Flexible Column Layout) allow such a layout with minimal custom sections?

2. How well does the annotation-driven model support IconTab structures and embedded F4 help in nested sections?

3. Are there limitations or known workarounds for achieving SplitApp-like behavior in Fiori Elements?

Looking forward to expert advice and experience-based suggestions.

Thanks in advance!