Dubai stands as a contemporary haven, renowned as one of the Middle East's top tourist hotspots. Its appeal lies in its diverse attractions, including glittering beaches, impressive landmarks, shopping, thrilling adventure sports, and desert drives, ensuring a fulfilling experience for all visitors. Opting for a trip in May can make your journey better, as the reduced tourist traffic allows for a better time to enjoy the city's scenes and attractions.
What makes Dubai in May special?
- Lesser tourist crowds: During Ramadan, the schedule for places to visit might change, but they stay open. This means you can enjoy Dubai more freely without the usual crowds.
- Affordable flights: Since May is an off-season month, you often tend to get better flight deals and heavy discounts.
- Economical accommodation rates: This period marks the start of the low season, so you can find rooms, including luxurious ones, more easily and for less money than in the high tourist season.
Dubai Weather in May
In Dubai, May starts the summer season, and it gets very hot, with temperatures often reaching up to 37°C and even going above 42°C sometimes! Nighttime temperatures are cooler, between 24°C and 27°C, and there are around 11 hours of daylight. May is the perfect month for sunbathing in Dubai, just before the hottest part of summer arrives.
Dubai in May : Things to do
1
Burj Khalifa
A trip to Dubai would be incomplete without a visit to the world’s tallest building - the Burj Khalifa which stands at 828m. The massive skyscraper is both an engineering marvel and a work of art, and will surely leave you mesmerized. Visit the observation deck around sunset and witness a spectacular view of Dubai from atop.
May Timings
Sunrise - 5:30 AM – 8:00 AM
At The Top – 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Dubai
United Arab Emirates
Getting There ›
2
Garden Glow
Dubai Garden Glow is a creative outdoor exhibition that features a glow-in-the-dark garden, a dinosaur park, an ice park, and an eco-friendly garden made of recyclable materials. This magical theme park is the brainchild of several engineers and the backdrop makes for some great pictures and selfies.
May Timings
Daily 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM (open till 11 PM on Saturdays)
Zabeel Park, Gate No - 6 & 7 Area - B, Dubai
United Arab Emirates
Getting There ›
3
Dubai Dolphinarium & Seal Show
The Dubai Dolphinarium is a popular family entertainment where for 45 minutes, you can witness dolphins and seals come together to entertain crowds with some amazing acrobatics, dance, and juggling. You’ll be spellbound as you watch these creatures perform stunts and interact with the audience.
May Timings
Daily 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM
Riyadh Street, Umm Hurair 2, Dubai,
United Arab Emirates
Getting There ›
4
Evening Desert Safari
A desert safari in Dubai will acquaint you with the true essence of the Arab lifestyle - sand boarding, dune bashing, camel rides, feasting under the star-lit sky, and soulful dance and music performances. Experience all this and more with an evening Desert Safari and make plenty of cherishable memories.
May Timings
Evening/Overnight Desert Safari – 4:00 PM – 9:00 AM
Dubai
United Arab Emirates
Getting There ›
5
Dhow Cruise
An experience that is unique to this part of the world, a Dhow Cruise involves getting aboard a traditional dhow with modern fittings and amenities and cruising along the calm waters of the Creek or the Marina (depending on your choice) for a few hours. While on board, you get to enjoy a sumptuous buffet meal and other refreshments with enjoyable Arabic music playing in the background along with commentary on the history of Dubai.
May Timings
Daily 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Deira Creek Opposite Radisson Blue Hotel
Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Getting There ›
6
Skydive
If you want to feel the wind in your hair as you freefall to the ground at 120 miles per hour, Skydive Dubai is the place to be. You can choose to be part of an electrifying dive from two locations (either the desert view or above Palm Jumeirah island), leap from 13,000 feet above, record your adventure, and live to tell the tale.
May Timings
Daily from 10:00 AM to Sunset
Check the official site for updated Ramadan timings
Al Seyahi St., Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Getting There ›
7
Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame is an award-winning marvel that attempts to capture the skyline of Dubai to showcase both new and old sights in a single frame. This monument offers panoramic views of the metropolis and also houses a museum that celebrates the city’s rich and regal past and promising future.
May Timings
Daily, 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (varies during Ramadan)
Al Kifaf, Zabeel Park Jogging Track, Dubai
United Arab Emirates
Getting There ›
8
Museum of The Future
The Museum of The Future lives up to it's name, and is indeed - the most beautiful building in the world. Now a part of Dubai's skyline, joins the many architecturally wondrous buildings in the city and is poised to be a center for hope, creativity, and knowledge. The City of Gold is now all set to give us a glimpse of the future and we can't wait. A number of unique experiences, combined, will give users an insight into what awaits mankind.
May Timings
10 am to 6 pm everyday, but you have to book a time slot before you go
Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
United Arab Emirates
Getting There ›
9
Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi
The Warner Bros World is an indoor theme park that promises excitement and fun for the whole family. Here, you can explore the world of prehistoric times with the Flintstones or meet the adorable cast of Looney Tunes. Whether you want to save Gotham from the clutches of the evil men or chase Tom and Jerry in the cartoon junction, the theme park has got it all covered!
May Timings
Daily, 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM (might vary during Ramadan)
Al Falah Rd, Abu Dhabi
United Arab Emirates
Getting There ›
10
Dubai Safari Park
Make your way to Dubai Safari Park to explore the 119-hectare animal sanctuary. Discover five unique villages featuring wild animals brought in from various parts of the world including, Pygmy Hippo, Gorilla, Chimpanzee, Ostrich, Mouflon and many more that is definite treat to watch. Don’t miss out on the interactive shows where you’ll get a glimpse of the animal kingdom and learn all about their natural habitat as well.
May Timings
Daily from 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Dubai Safari Park, Al Warqa 5 - Dubai
United Arab Emirates
Getting There ›
Dubai in May: Events to Look Out For
Hans Zimmer Live
May 31 - June 1, 2024
Dubai welcomes back Hans Zimmer for live shows on May 31 and June 1, 2024, at the Coca-Cola Arena. The celebrated Hollywood composer, known for scores in movies like The Lion King and Gladiator, returns after a successful 2023 show. Join Zimmer and his 45-piece ensemble for a night of iconic film music, complete with original singers and dancers.
Jason Derulo Live
May 4, 2024
Experience the magic as Jason Derulo headlines EarthSoul at Coca-Cola Arena, a unique event blending music, art, and eco-awareness. Derulo will perform hits like "Savage Love" and "Take You Dancing," alongside stars like Shae Gill, Arqam, and Celine Dee Matahari. This concert, part of the UAE's Year of Sustainability, features a mix of international and local talents promoting eco-consciousness through their performances.
R&B Lovers Festival
May 11 - May 12, 2024
Get excited, Dubai! This May 2024, a huge 90s & 00s R&B Beach Festival is happening outdoors. Expect an amazing event full of glitter, glam, and confetti at one of the city's top venues. Stay tuned for details and get ready to groove to hits from Destiny's Child, Ashanti, Ja Rule, Usher, Ludacris, and others!
Martin Garrix
May 11, 2024
Experience a night of incredible music with the famous DJ and producer Martin Garrix at Atlantis, The Palm on May 11. Enjoy hits like “In the Name of Love” and “Summer Days” from his STMPD RCRDS label.
Dubai in May: 5-day Itinerary
5 Days in Dubai Itinerary
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Dubai in May: Essentials
LanguageArabic
Time zoneGMT+4
Country Code+971
Socket Type C, D and G
CurrencyArab Emirate Dirham (AED)
Dubai Weather in May
May starts the summer in Dubai, so fewer tourists visit. But, the weather is sunny with not much moisture, and it's usually around 38°C. It's smart to go driving in the daytime and check out the beaches and historic sites in the evening.
Where to Stay in Dubai during May
Dubai offers an array of accommodation choices for tourists right from luxurious suites to dormitories for the budget traveller. Here are some that you can choose based on your budget:
- 5 & 4 star hotels - Take your pick from among the Ritz Carlton Dubai, Sheraton Dubai Creek, Ramada Jumeirah, One & Only The Palm, Grosvenor House Dubai or Nikki Beach Resort & Spa.
- Budget Hotels - You could choose rooms at the Holiday Inn Express Safa Park, Citymax Bur Dubai, Arabian Park Hotel, Fortune Hotel Deira, or Royal Ascot Hotel for a reasonable range of accommodation.
- Hostels - Perfect for backpackers and solo travelers, a stay at the UAE Youth Hostel Association, Hey Beach, Central Dubai, Top of Marina, At The Top, or Dubai Beach Host is comfortable and easy on the wallet.
What to Pack for Visiting Dubai in May
Dubai is hot and sunny in May, so it's smart to pack lots of cotton clothes because they are good for warm, sunny weather. Don't forget to bring things like hats and sunglasses too. Jackets that block the wind are good for day and night. Also, take scarves and hats for trips to the desert!
Getting Around Dubai in May
Dubai has revamped its public transport, making it easy for visitors to travel using buses, the Metro, Tram, or water taxis. If you plan to use public transport, the bus and Metro reach many key tourist spots. Riding the tram, which stops at 11 stations from Al Sufouh to JBR, is enjoyable. The water transport is also efficient, with the Road Transport Authority (RTA) operating water taxis at 43 stops and ferries on more than 5 routes.
Dubai in May - Must Try Delicacies
Although originally a Lebanon dish, the Manousheh is an Arabic variant of a pizza. It consists of a flatbread filled with cheese, herbs, olive oil, and meat. A great dish for breakfast, you can order yours from Manoushe Street Downtown for a healthy start to your morning.
The falafel is ubiquitous to Dubai and is easily the most recognized food here. A falafel is a deep-fried ball made of ground chickpeas or fava beans. It is usually vegetarian and used with shawarmas to supplement flavours. Operation Falafel (JBR) is a great place to indulge in these tasty treats.
A sweetmeat that’s typical to the Arab region, the Knafeh is often referred to as the Queen of Desserts. It is an interesting combination of sweet and salt syrup, melted cheese, dough, and pistachios. Feras Aldiyafa Sweets is known for this delicacy and is a must-try when in Dubai.
The kabsa is an Arab delicacy often regarded as a national dish, which is made of rice blended with an assortment of vegetables and meat. Taste a well-cooked Kabsa at Azkadenya (in Mercato Mall) and you’ll be left craving for more!
Tips for Visiting Dubai in May
- Since Ramadan is a religious festival, it helps to dress conservatively. If you’re packing shorts and skirts, ensure that they cover your knees.
- If you’re wearing sleeveless tops, it might be a good idea to keep jackets/pashmina shawls handy. This will also help if it gets too windy at night.
- Refrain from eating or drinking in public places between sunrise and sunset - you don’t want to get in trouble with the locals, who are observing a religious fast.
- The sun can be quite harsh here, so keep those sunglasses out and dab generous amounts of sunscreen on yourself before stepping out.
- Keep water bottles handy as the heat can be very exhausting and you’ll need to remain hydrated to experience the best of the city.
Explore Dubai by Months
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