With glitz and glamour to spare, Dubai draws in tourists like a magnet. The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months, from November to April. Whether it’s the malls, the Burj Khalifa, the state-of-the-art venues, the plethora of activities, adventures and experiences and the overall entertainment provided.. January and February see heavy tourist traffic because of the Dubai Shopping Festival, which makes the city come alive. This is one of the greatest global cities in the world, and it’s only right that you should experience it at least once (if not more).
Close your eyes. Picture a shimmering city rising up from the hot, sandy waves of the Arabian Desert. Skyrises pierce the blue sky, slick buildings glint in the sun, smooth as silk roads loop around the buildings, light blazes everywhere turning the city into a virtual rainbow of colours. The smooth waters that edge the city throw back its chaotically beautiful reflection. Yes, in just a few words, Dubai is instantly recognisable. Afterall, there’s no place like Dubai in the world!
That’s what we’re here for. Rain or shine, we’re here to tell you what the weather calendar of Dubai is and help you make a decision. So, are you ready? Your vacation awaits.
Peak Season: November-March
Shoulder Season: April-May, September-October
Off Season: June-August
| Travel Seasons | Min/Max Temperature | Weather |
| June to August | 33 – 42°C | Summer – Hot |
| September to October | 25 – 38°C | Transition months |
| November to March | 17 – 30 °C | Winter – Pleasant, with a hint of rain |
| April to May | 26 – 38°C | Transition months |
Dubai largely has two seasons – Summer and Winter – with transition months in between.
Dubai In Summer (June – August)
Temperature: The air temperature during the season of summer fluctuates between 33°C and 42°C.
Weather: The sun lets loose on Dubai during summer. Wave after wave of shimmering heat floods the city for 12 hours in the day. The temperature can skyrocket to the early forties, and sometimes go further to the fifties. The humidity and heat continue to escalate during these months. Sandstorms whip their way into the city, making it difficult to move around.
Significance: With temperatures like these, most of the outdoor activities and festivals are restricted. However, the city doesn’t shut down entirely during this season. The Dubai Summer Surprises festival is spread over 10 fun weeks, with a theme assigned across the weeks. Everything from food, to art to nature is celebrated.
Why you should visit now: Although the city is directly in eye of the sun during these months, Dubai’s interiors are air-conditioned and chilly, allowing you to stay comfortably inside during these months. Hotels offer great deals on both food and accommodation.
What to know before the visit: Despite the heat, Dubai’s nightlife remains as vibrant as ever. Indulge in retail therapy, as the chilled malls are the best place to spend the summer day. Sandstorm season will also restrict your movements outside, so don’t plan any activities around the city unless it is vital.
Tips: Hydration is key during this season. Make sure you’re drinking at least 2-3 litres a day and eat light meals – feeling full during the heat is uncomfortable, to say the least. Dress lightly and carry antiperspirant with you. Above all, try to keep all your trip activities indoor. The exception to this would be a desert safari but do check the weather in advance before you book.
Dubai In Winter (November-March)
Temperature – The air temperature during the season of winter fluctuates between 17°C and 30°C.
Weather – The cooler portion of the year comes as a welcome relief to the city. The temperature in November drops to a comforting 25° C. Throughout November and December, the temperature continues to drop to the early twenties and the evenings become chilly. The sun peeps its head out in January, but the humidity continues to stay low and the temperature can drop as low at 15°C. The heat starts inching up in February, but the month continues the pleasant streak in Dubai. The season also sees mild rainfall and rare thunderstorms for around 3-4 days – nothing to hamper your movements or any events planned. This is the best climate to visit Dubai.
Significance: Dubai is ripe to bursting with events during this season. November kicks off with Dubai Design week – a festival for the creative in the community. The 2nd of December is a day of celebration and remembrance in the city as it marks the independence of the Emirates from Britain. The city is flooded with celebrities during December as the Dubai International Film Festival rolls around. This month also sees 16 international rugby teams competing in the Dubai Rugby Seasons. January brings tourists in the thousands, as New Year celebrations burst across the city. This is followed by the grand Dubai Shopping Festival – every shopper’s dream. Sales, discounts and unimaginable prices bring almost 2 million tourists to Dubai. The energy continues to remain high during January with the Dubai Marathon and the Dubai Golf Tournament bringing the finest athletes to this glimmering city. February and March continue the sporting streak with top tennis players arriving for the Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Championships. It doesn’t end there – Dubai plays host to the annual Jazz festival, the International Boat Show, Art Shows and the World Cup in horse racing.
Why you should visit now: The weather and events combine to make a very compelling argument as to why you should visit Dubai in winter. This season allows you to move around the city and enjoy being outdoors, so take advantage and explore the iconic locations of the city to your heart’s content.
Things to know before the visit: Every kind of brand is available at the Dubai Shopping Festival. It extends across the month – starting from the last week of December to the first week of February. Clothes, electronics, accessories, perfumes, home décor – you’ll get them all at jaw-dropping discounts. Add to this, food festivals, fireworks and fashion shows and you won’t know where to look or what to buy! Start saving – this is one shopping trip you don’t want to miss.
Tips: Regardless of the pleasant weather, there are some things to keep in mind during this season. Evenings do get chilly, so make sure you pack some long-sleeved shirts and a jacket to keep you warm. It’s sunnier in January and February, and while the heat won’t bother you, UV rays are still a problem. Slather on some strong sunblock before you leave the house!
As we’ve mentioned, Dubai has two predominant seasons. However, the transition months in the year have their own appeal and reasons to visit, so we’ll break these down for you.
Dubai In April-May / September-October (Transition Months)
Temperature: The air temperature during these transition months fluctuates between 25°C and 38°C (April-May) and 26-38°C (September-October).
Weather: April–May sees the pleasant weather from winter slowly inch its way to the scorch of summer. May officially opens the gates for the summer sun, spiking temperature as high as 37°C. The skies are clear, without any clouds and the sun is unrelenting for almost 11 hours during the day.
September is the beginning of shorter winter days and the summer heat starts to drop during this month. Although the average temperatures are still on the higher side, the evening sees a significant drop. October takes that temperature drop down by another 5 degrees, leading the way for the incoming winter season in Dubai.
Significance: April is a great time for the foodie in you as the Dubai Food Festival kicks off. Celebrity chefs, cooking demos, discounts at restaurants and great food make April a worthy choice.
September showcases the best of rock, pop, Latin and Arabian music over a 5-day music festival. Complementing this festival is the Dubai International Dance Festival, bringing great dance troupes to the city. Camel Racing season starts in October and locals, people from Saudi Arabia and Qatar compete in this festival.
Why you should visit now: Everything is in moderation during these transition months. It’s hot, but not too hot. The sea temperatures are perfect – inviting you in for cooling dips. Accommodation rates come down (especially after the winter peak season) and you will find good discounts during this season.
Things to know before the visit: During the months of April and May, be cautious and plan as many indoor activities as possible. It’s not as hot as summer, but you don’t want to risk a heatstroke.
Tips: During the April-May months, carry sunblock, loose cotton clothes and stay hydrated. Take dips in the sea and stay indoors where its cooler.
Dubai has a whole calendar of fun ready for you, if you pick the right time to visit. Remember that Dubai is well-equipped to handle the heat, but it also pays to be cautious during the summer months. So, there you have it – Dubai weather in all its sun-kissed glory. If you’ve already got your travel dates in mind, then don’t hesitate – head over to our Dubai Holiday Packages and book your vacation now!
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