I'd say they're alike almost, but dragon age has a different feel to the story line. I would recommend it, very fun game!

I would say they resemble same qualities but have big differences.
I absolutely love the entire Elder Scrolls and Dragon Age franchise but they have never been quite similar. Skyrim in my eyes is just a bit more free on do whatever you want out of the box. Dragon Age kinda feels more, ok I should do this, get back and talk to some people to romance her and then unlock this area to explore and finish every side quest, meaning it is more linear in a sense where you need to do this to get this or go here. 100% agree with

but dragon age has a different feel to the story line

as the story is more of memory where you need to remember what you just did or you will not understand it at all later in the game. (EG. Choosing this faction over another and understanding the consequences.)

Played 60+ hours of Dragon Age Inquisition so far and am only on the third campaign mission. There is definitely a lot to do.. as well the side quests are redeeming to where you want to complete this to unlock more power etc..