Winter in Dubai
What to do from October until April
Beautiful weather and a packed calendar of events combine to create a truly special season in Dubai. Visitors from near and far flock to enjoy the city’s blissful sunshine, world-class attractions, Michelin-starred restaurants, live entertainment from international superstars and so much more.
Outdoor attractions and activities take center stage during wintertime. Here are a few suggestions to get you started – keep your eyes on Dubai Calendar for all the latest announcements and to ensure you don’t miss a moment of fun.
- Plan an adventure in Hatta – try hiking, kayaking, or mountain biking
- Enjoy a relaxing day soaking up the sun at Kite Beach or Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
- Test your head for heights with Sky Views Dubai’s Edge Walk
- Go mountain biking in Mushrif National Park
- Journey 300m above Palm Jumeirah in The Dubai Balloon
How to make the most of your winter
- Although temperatures are cooler during Dubai’s winter season, you should still wear sunscreen, headwear, and sunglasses to protect your skin from the sun’s rays
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Night-time can be a little chilly, especially from December to February, so it’s advisable to bring a sweater if you’re spending the evening outside
- If you’re planning an overnight trip to the desert, remember that temperatures can drop lower than in the city once the sun goes down, so it’s best to bring extra layers
Summer in Dubai
What to do from May until September
During the summer months, Dubai remains a hot ticket for visitors. There are bargains aplenty to be found throughout the season, as temperatures rise and prices drop across the city’s hotels and attractions. Aquatic activities are particularly popular, with many hugely enjoyable ways to beat the heat. Whether you’d prefer to laze in a luxurious swimming pool, feel the adrenaline rush at a waterpark or head into the sea for watersports like jet boarding and kayaking, you’ll find it here.
You’re also spoilt for choice when it comes to indoor activities, including…
- Theme park thrills at Dubai Parks and Resorts
- A tropical rainforest adventure at The Green Planet
- Virtual reality fun at Play DXB
- A glimpse into tomorrow at the Museum of the Future
How to stay cool in summer
- Ensure you stay safe from the sun, high temperatures, and humidity by regularly applying sunscreen, and wearing a hat and sunglasses
- Pack light, breathable clothing to keep cool when out and about. Long-sleeved shirts can help protect against the warm sun as well
- If you’re spending any period of time outside, it’s essential that you drink lots of water to stay hydrated
Things to do in Dubai each month
Whenever you choose to visit the city, here’s our guide to making the most of your vacation
Average temperature: 19.4 °C
January is typically the coolest month of the year in Dubai, with an average temperature of 19.4 degrees Celsius, making it the perfect time to explore the great outdoors. Check out Al Sufouh Beach by Palm Jumeirah for a relaxing day of fun and sunshine, go and see the flamingoes and other colourful birds at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, or go rope climbing and ziplining at Aventura Parks. And if you love to bag a bargain, Dubai Shopping Festival has incredible deals, prize draws, superb live entertainment and more.
Average temperature: 20.7°C
Experience beautiful winter weather during February in Dubai, with an average temperature of 20.7 degrees Celsius. For a dip with a difference, head to AURA Skypool on Palm Jumeirah and chill out in the world's first and highest 360-degree infinity pool, or simply lay back on a lounger and take in the spectacular views. Or if you're in the mood for some heart-pounding thrills, try jumping from a plane with Skydive Dubai. February is also when the annual Emirates Airline Festival of Literature takes place, welcoming world-famous authors to the city to celebrate the written word.
Average temperature: 23.3°C
Dubai's calendar of entertainment is always busy, but March is an especially thriving month in the city. Temperatures average 23.3 degrees Celsius and the events calendar is in full swing. For a truly glamorous day out, head to Meydan Racecourse for the Dubai World Cup. It's known as one of the richest horse races in the world, with prize money of US$30.5 million in 2023, and the event is also a magnet for the city's fashionistas. For culture lovers, Art Dubai is the region's largest art festival - while fitness fans can participate in an annual swim around the iconic Burj Al Arab.
Average temperature: 27.7°C
Things start heating up in Dubai during April, when the average temperature is 27.7 degrees Celsius. Why not cool off with a visit to AquaFun, the city's largest inflatable waterpark located in the sea off Jumeirah Beach Residence, which has more than 110 games to enjoy. Or if you'd rather take some memorable snaps, go up the Dubai Frame and gaze out at the city's incredible mix of historic and futuristic architecture. If you're looking to burn off some energy, indoor trampoline park Bounce Dubai is a fun and colourful destination that's sure to tire you out. Gourmands will also love the Dubai Food Festival, with delicious deals at eateries across the city.
Average temperature: 31.8°C
Welcome to summer in the city, with an average temperature of 31.8 degrees Celsius. Soak up the sun while surrounded by luxury at Dubai's many amazing beach clubs, with plenty of options both for families and adults only. The Club at Palm West Beach is a top pick, and is home to beach clubs including the Peruvian-themed Playa Beach Club and the hippy vibes of SĀN. If you'd rather cool off indoors, explore the immersive entertainment park AYA, which uses high-tech graphics, lights and sounds to tell 12 captivating stories.
Average temperature: 33.8°C
June sees the launch of Dubai Summer Surprises, the annual shopping extravaganza which features wonderful deals plus prize draws, exciting live entertainment and lots of family fun. The average temperature in Dubai is 33.8 degrees, so you may want to enjoy the city's huge array of indoor attractions. Take on The Storm roller coaster in Dubai Hills Mall, watch an alternative movie at the hipster haven Cinema Akil or witness magical marine life at The Lost Chambers Aquarium.
Average temperature: 35.6°C
It's time to discover more of Dubai's excellent indoor attractions, with temperatures in the city averaging 35.6 degrees Celsius. Start the day with a visit Museum of the Future, then prepare to have your senses scrambled at the Museum of Illusions. In the evening, watch the thrilling live show La Perle, which features wondrous aerial and acrobatic stunts plus a state-of-the-art 'aqua stage' filled with 2.7 million litres of water.
Average temperature: 35.7°C
August is typically the hottest month of the year in Dubai, with an average temperature of 35.7 degrees Celsius. If you want to feel chilly for a change, go for a fun-filled skating session at Dubai Ice Rink. Or, if you're in the mood, visit The Smash Room in Al Quoz and engage in some therapeutic demolition of objects including old electronics and glassware. For more organised exercise, check out Dubai Sports World. Located in Dubai World Trade Centre, the summertime sports arena offers everything from football, tennis and basketball to padel, cricket and badminton.
Average temperature: 33.2°C
With temperatures averaging 33.2 degrees Celsius, September is an excellent time to step into the sea and try some exhilarating watersports. Shoot into the air on a flyboard, work your muscles on a stand-up paddleboard, feel the rush on a jet ski...there are so many awesome aquatic options to choose from. Afterwards, go for a game of glow-in-the-dark padel at The Alley DXB or marvel at stunning works in the Theatre of Digital Art.
Average temperature: 30°C
This is the month when the thermometer starts to cool in Dubai, with average temperatures of 30 degrees Celsius. Celebrate with a hot air balloon experience in the desert with Balloon Adventures Dubai, as you soar 4,000ft above the sands and even witness an in-flight falcon show. Back on land, go for a picnic in the picturesque Zabeel Park and then spend the evening watching water dance at the Dubai Fountain.
Average temperature: 25.5°C
It's time to break out the barbecue and enjoy Dubai's lovely winter weather, with an average temperature of 25.5 degrees Celsius. Head to Al Qudra Lakes for delightful vistas to go alongside your tasty bites. Pick up ultra-fresh produce at The Ripe Market in Umm Suqeim or plan a visit to any of the farms in Dubai. For a livelier day out, strap yourself to the world's longest urban zipline at XLine Dubai Marina, which offers amazing bird's eye views and reaches speeds of 80 km/h. Afterwards, pop over to The Beach at Jumeirah Beach Residence for a laidback stroll and plenty of top-notch restaurants.
Average temperature: 21.3°C
December in Dubai begins in style, with UAE National Day on the second of the month. Get into the spirit and join celebrations across the city, with lots of spectacular fireworks displays to watch too. It's also the Christmas season, with temperatures averaging a balmy 21.3 degrees Celsius, so you can enjoy outdoor attractions from the Festive Market at Madinat Jumeirah to the seasonal delights of Global Village. And finally, welcome the New Year at any of the city's epic events - and watch in wonder as more incredible fireworks illuminate the sky once the clock strikes midnight.