Things to do in Dubai

Best time to visit Dubai | A month-on-month guide

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Prepare yourself to discover the ultimate insights for an unforgettable Dubai experience! When you think of Dubai, images of golden deserts, iconic skyscrapers (hello, Burj Khalifa!), and mouthwatering shawarma immediately come to mind. However, there's so much more to this city than meets the eye. Before you hastily click that "book now" button, let's delve into the ideal timing for your Dubai visit. Your choice of month can significantly enhance your Dubai escapade. Join me on the blog as I unveil insider tips on weather, attractions, and everything essential to maximize your Dubai vacation!

Know before you plan your trip to Dubai


The best time to visit Dubai is definitely from November to February when you can experience the best of Dubai – the desert and outdoor activities to exciting events and live entertainment. March, April, September and October are also ideal for those like me who want a laid back holiday without the crowds. But thanks to its ingenious architecture and building technology to keep cool, there is always something to do in Dubai all year long!

Dubai through the year


  • High Season in Dubai spans from November to April, boasting ideal weather characterized by cool temperatures and radiant winter sun, a stark contrast to the gloomy conditions prevalent in many other parts of the world during this time. This period heralds a joyous atmosphere in Dubai, marked by an array of concerts, live events, shopping festivals, and exhilarating tours such as dhow cruises and desert safaris. It attracts a significant influx of international tourists, resulting in higher airfare and hotel rates.
  • Low Season in Dubai sets in from May to August, when the intense sun tends to deter even the most enthusiastic travelers. This period presents an opportunity for budget-conscious visitors, particularly backpackers, as airfares plummet and various amenities are offered at discounted rates. While outdoor activities may be less appealing due to the
  • Shoulder Season in Dubai, my favourite season, spans September and October, offering the perfect opportunity to embrace the surf! As temperatures begin to moderate, the sea becomes inviting for swimming and a variety of thrilling water sports such as jet-surfing and wakeboarding. With fewer international tourists due to the school season in many parts of the world, this period often brings reduced rates for accommodations and activities, making it an ideal time to explore Dubai's offerings.

Best season to go to Dubai


While Dubai does not have all the four seasons in full swing, the weather borders around the worldly four seasons. Take a look and you'll know.

spring in barcelona
Dubai in Spring

Dubai, nestled in the desert, offers a unique experience void of traditional spring blooms found elsewhere. However, its glorious weather, boasting the perfect balance of sunlight, paints a picturesque scene. March and April unveil spring-like conditions in Dubai, making it an optimal period to explore the city. It's an ideal time for outdoor enthusiasts to revel in various activities and relish the inviting sea, offering just the right temperature for a refreshing swim.

summer in barcelona
Dubai in Summer

Summer is long and hot in Dubai and extends from June to August. The days are long with more than 13 hours of sunlight, and you can venture out comfortably in the early mornings and late evenings for outdoor activities. This is the best time in Dubai to visit attractions and theme parks as it is the low tourist season and you won’t experience too many crowds.

autumn in barcelona
Dubai in Autumn

In Dubai, September and October signal the arrival of autumn, albeit in a unique way. Unlike other parts of the world where autumn is marked by vibrant foliage, Dubai experiences a welcome drop in temperature as summer's scorching heat recedes. This change invites residents and visitors alike to venture outdoors once more. Additionally, autumn in the city brings a flurry of cultural events, adding an extra layer of excitement to the vibrant atmosphere.

winter in barcelona
Dubai in Winter

Winter in Dubai stretches from November to February and is the perfect winter getaway for those who don’t like snow and cold temperatures! This is the season to enjoy the outdoors, head to the desert, and indulge in adventure activities. However, the sea can be less forgiving and is too cold for leisurely swimming. But it is hands down the best time to visit Dubai thanks in part to its outdoor festivals, events, and shopping festival that entertain all kinds of travelers.

Weather in Dubai year round


The weather in Dubai year round has been charted on a graph below. The Highs are depicted in red and the Lows in blue.

best time to visit Dubai

A month-by-month guide to visiting Dubai


1

Dubai in January

Average Temperature: 15.5°C - 24.3°C

Dubai in January experiences pleasant weather, which makes you want to stay outdoors, all day long! The mild temperatures are perfect for indulging in adventure activities like sky diving, zip lining, and going on hot air balloons. The city also sees fewer tourists thanks to the end of the international holiday season after the New Year. But, there is still a lot to cheer, especially the annual Dubai Shopping Festival. The month-long festival offers discounts at shopping malls and designer stores that will satisfy your inner shopaholic. The city also has incredible live entertainment like La Perle Dubai and events like Quoz Arts Festival, which will give you a taste of culture and arts.



Recommended experiences for Dubai in January

2

Dubai in February

Average Temperature: 16.6°C - 25.9°C



In February, the temperature in Dubai is akin to springtime weather in Europe, making it a great winter destination. The combination of sunny days and pleasant temperatures are ideal for enjoying outdoor activities. You can go on a desert safari and enjoy dune bashing, camel riding and traditional desert living, or go on a Dhow cruise to soak in the mild evenings. The city is also host to several events like the Dubai Jazz Festival and the Dubai Food Festival that will satisfy the foodies and music lovers. Being a school season pretty much across the world, Dubai is bereft of family crowds in February.



Recommended experiences in Dubai in February

3

Dubai in March

Average Temperature: 18.9°C - 28.7°C



The temperature in Dubai in March starts rising, and it is the best time to spend your day at the beach. Dubai boasts of several fantastic beaches including private resort beaches, and the sea temperature is just right for swimming. If you are up for adrenaline spiking activities, then go for jet skiing, flyboarding, parasailing or on a leisurely paddleboarding trip with the magnificent Dubai skyline in the background. Dubai is fast becoming a cultural hub in the Middle East, and in March the city hosts the Sikka Art Fair and Annual Festival of Literature. March is one of the last months when you can be out in the sun and enjoy it thoroughly!



Recommended experiences in March

4

Dubai in April

Average Temperature: 22.4°C - 33.6°C



Summer has reared its head in Dubai in April, and the rising temperatures can be felt! The days are longer and hotter, while the evenings start to cool down contrastingly, leading to shifting of all the fun events during the evenings. In April, you can enjoy the events at WOW JBR, Global Village and the many activities conducted at the theme parks in the city. The major event in Dubai is the Middle East Film and Comic Con which draws visitors from all across Asia. Spend the day sightseeing and take a dip in the pool in the evenings to wash off the heat and grime of the day!



Recommended experiences in April

5

Dubai in May

Average Temperature: 26.2°C - 38°C



Bring out the sun screen and hats because it's full-blown summer in Dubai in May. You will have to plan your itinerary in such a way that you spend the better part of the day inside the fantastic shopping malls, dhow cruises, exciting attractions or theme parks. Grab hold of your friends and family and make your way to everything Dubai has to offer. You won't have to bear the heat at all!



Recommended experiences in May

6

Dubai in June

Average Temperature: 28.7°C - 40.2°C



The long days of June mean you can pack in a lot of stuff to see and do in Dubai. However, the key mantra to follow is ‘Stay indoors’ through the afternoon. The sun is at its peak, and you might even suffer sunburn, so keep sunscreen handy. Attractions like the Green Planet, Ski Dubai and theme parks like Aquaventure, IMG Worlds of Adventure, Wild Wadi Waterpark, and Dubai Dolphinarium are great places to enjoy the summer with kids. The city also boasts of a world-class Opera House where you can watch classical concerts and museums like the Louvre, Sharjah Art Museum, and Dubai Museum which are full of artistic and historical treasures.



Recommended experiences in June

7

Dubai in July

Average Temperature: 31.3°C - 41.4°C



July is one of the hottest months in Dubai and the only time you can comfortably venture outdoors is at night, which is coincidentally the best time to enjoy the Dubai glitz and sparkling skyline. The heat also ensures that a lot of international tourists stay away leading to lower airfare and hotel rates. However, the fun never ceases in Dubai; shopaholics will enjoy the bountiful offers of Dubai Summer Surprises which is the summer counterpart of the Dubai Shopping Festival. You can enjoy discounts and offers at shopping malls, and theme parks, plus attend night concerts, firework displays and fun workshops for the kids.



Recommended experiences in July

8

Dubai in August

Average Temperature: 31.6°C - 41.8°C



August is the peak of summer in Dubai and temperatures are soaring, even the sea won’t offer any respite as day time sea temperatures are a hot 30°C plus! This is the least crowded month in Dubai despite it being the international vacation season, and rates are incredibly low, and offers run high with lots of freebies thrown in. So if you are seeking a budget Dubai vacation, then this is the best time to visit! You can still indulge in activities like a Dubai Night Tour, a Dhow Dinner Cruise, or a Big Bus Panorama Night Tour. The cool air-conditioned confines of the museums and attractions are the best way to spend August in Dubai!



Recommended experiences in August

9

Dubai in September

Average Temperature: 29°C - 39.4°C



Summer is on its way out in September but not with enough speed! The average temperatures lower in Dubai in September but it’s still hot and humid, which means you still have to ensure about planning your day well to avoid the heat and packing right for it. The live entertainment and event scene starts picking up in September with shows like La Perle Dragone and concerts at the Dubai Opera House. The highlight of the month is the Saudi National Day which will witness fireworks displays and celebrations across the city. Dubai is always an evergreen destination for shopping and entertainment, and September will not disappoint you!



Recommended experiences in September

10

Dubai in October

Average Temperature: 25°C - 36°C



Dubai is located in the desert, so summer draws out quite a bit and there is no semblance of autumn; however temperatures continue to lower in October in Dubai. The sea becomes a jaunt for tourists again as the sea temperatures reduce becoming ideal for swimming and water adventure activities. It is the season of camel racing in Dubai, and you can witness traditional events around it, and it is the perfect time to head out to the desert and enjoy a camel ride yourself. In the city, Opera shows are still on, and Halloween festivities are catching up in the high-end restaurants and malls.



Recommended experiences in October

11

Dubai in November

Average Temperature: 21.1°C - 30.6°C



If you are looking for a winter holiday and want to escape the cold weather gripping the rest of the world, Dubai is where you should head! The temperatures in Dubai become pleasant in November as it is the start of winter. You can comfortably venture outdoors even during the day time and enjoy outdoor activities. There are lots of international events taking place in the city like Dubai Design Week and Downtown Design. You can also hop over to the neighboring capital city of Abu Dhabi and watch the F1 Grand Prix, and while you are there take a tour of the Ferrari World and Yas Water World.



Recommended experiences in November

12

Dubai in December

Average Temperature: 17°C - 26°C


Dubai in December can be described as beautiful, thanks to its weather and the festivities! It is one of the colder months in Dubai, and you can pack light sweaters to keep warm at night, while the days are refreshingly cool. December is chock-a-block with events starting with the UAE National Day which is the Emirates Independence Day, followed by the Dubai International Film Festival and the Rugby Sevens tournament. Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Dubai bring over tourists from across the world, and the Burj Khalifa is an epic destination to bring in the New Year! The Dubai Winter Festival will bring in the requisite cheer with sales and Christmas markets. PS: The best part about New Year's in Dubai are the Burj Khalifa New Year fireworks. Don't miss out on this!



Recommended experiences in December

Ideal time to visit Dubai


1. For outdoor adventure lovers

Best season for adventure lovers: If you share my love for outdoor escapades, the optimal window to experience Dubai is from November to February. During this period, the climate is ideal, offering cool temperatures that make thrilling activities such as desert safaris, dune bashing, and hot air ballooning even more enjoyable.
Activities: Desert safaris, dune bashing, hot air ballooning, and quadbiking.

2. For honeymooners and couples

Best season for honeymooners and couples: Romance permeates the air, particularly between October and April! For those contemplating a romantic escape, these months provide the perfect blend of delightful weather and cozy atmospheres. Leave behind the scorching summer temperatures and relish in enchanting evenings beneath the twinkling stars. Whether indulging in a secluded beach picnic or enjoying a private dinner aboard a dhow cruise, Dubai sets the stage for unforgettable moments.
Activities: Dhow cruise dinners, private beach picnics, helicopter tours, and spa retreats.

3. For fashion enthusiasts and shopping lovers

Best season for shopping and fashion: For those passionate about style, the months of January to February are your golden ticket – it's the Dubai Shopping Festival! Imagine a city transformed into a shopper's paradise, with massive discounts, exclusive launches, and dazzling fashion events. Time to update that wardrobe with both international brands and unique local finds.
Activities: Dubai Shopping Festival, fashion shows, high-end malls, and explore souks for local finds.

2. For budget travelers

Best season for budget travelers: For the thrifty traveler looking to maximize their budget, consider scheduling your Dubai getaway for the shoulder seasons of March, April, September, or October. These times offer the benefits of reduced crowds and lower-priced accommodations, allowing you to fully indulge in the city's attractions without breaking the bank. It's an ideal balance between saving money and enjoying an unforgettable Dubai adventure.
Activities: Visit museums and historical sites, explore public beaches, attend free cultural events, and try local street food.

FAQs


What is the best time of year to visit Dubai?

The best time of year to visit Dubai is during the cooler months from November to March. During this time, the weather is more pleasant and there are fewer crowds. However, keep in mind that prices for flights and hotels will be higher during this peak season.

What is the weather like in Dubai?

Dubai has a desert climate with very hot, humid summers and mild winters. The hottest months are July and August when temperatures can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius. December to February are the coolest months, with temperatures averaging around 25 degrees Celsius.

What should I pack for a trip to Dubai?

Be sure to pack light, comfortable clothing for the hot weather. Sunscreen and a hat are also essential. If you’re visiting during the cooler months, you may want to pack a sweater or jacket for the evenings.

What is there to do in Dubai?

There is plenty to see and do in Dubai. Some of the top attractions include the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world; the Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping mall; and the Dubai Fountain, a spectacular musical fountain show. You can also go on a desert safari, visit one of the many theme parks, or take a dhow cruise on the creek.

What is the currency in Dubai?

The currency in Dubai is the dirham (AED). 1 US dollar is approximately 3.67 dirhams. 

Do I need a visa to visit Dubai?

Citizens of most countries can get a visa on arrival in Dubai. However, there are a few exceptions so it’s best to check with your airline or travel agent before you travel. 

Is Dubai safe?

Dubai is generally a safe and welcoming place for tourists. However, as with any large city, there are always risks associated with travel.

Best time to visit Dubai