Planning in advance the best time to visit Dubai comes down to one thing: matching Dubai weather to your trip goals. Dubai is a year round destination, but it is completely different in the winter months as compared to the summer months. Because of this, the best time to visit Dubai retains on whether you wish to experience nice weather, fewer crowds, the largest festivals, or the cheapest hotels.
In this guide, you will discover the best time to visit for the beaches, shopping, outdoor attractions and events such as Dubai shopping festival and Dubai summer surprises. You’ll also get a simple view of average temperatures, sea conditions and what each season is best for, month by month.
Quick Answer: What Is The Best Time to Visit Dubai?
For most travellers, November to March is the best time to visit Dubai. During this window (often written as November March) there is beautiful weather in Dubai, more days with sunny weather, and temperatures which are bearable for outdoor exploring.
Here’s a fast cheat sheet:
- Best weather + outdoor activities: November – March (High season, higher hotel rates)
- Best value (fewer crowds + comfortable heat): April May and September October
- Best time easily time for shopping Dubai + incredible deals – January – February (Dubai shopping festival)
- Best time indoor attractions and lower prices: June-August (extreme heat, but big discounts)
Dubai weather basics: A City with “Two Seasons”
Dubai is located in the Middle East and the climate in Dubai mainly consists of two seasons; winter and summer. That’s why the “best season” isn’t a little bit of a difference. It can completely alter the amount of time you spend out.
Winter vs summer in Dubai (what does it feel like?
- Winter (more or less Nov-Mar): Clear skies, nice weather, and an appreciable drop in evening temperature.
- Summer (roughly Jun-Aug): Summer heat, high humidity, sweltering heat and often an extreme heat which can seem to be like extreme heat in the afternoons.
Dubai nevertheless “works” in the summer though. Because Dubai plays host to huge indoor attractions, from Dubai Mall to indoor theme parks, many visitors still pay a visit to Dubai in July and August for lower prices.
Dubai average temperatures (simple ranges)
Exact conditions vary by year but these ranges are helpful in your planning. For official Climate information, visit the UAE National Center of Meteorology: https://www.ncm.ae/
| Season | Daytime feel | Typical “average temperatures” (approx.) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter (Nov-Mar) | Mild to warm | ~20-28degC (68-82degF) | Outdoor attractions, beach, events |
| Shoulder (Apr-May) | Warm | ~28-36degC (82-97degF) | Value trips, fewer crowds |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Very hot, humid | ~35-45degC (95-113degF) | Indoor attractions, best deals |
| Shoulder (Sep-Oct) | Hot, improving | ~30-38degC (86-100degF) | Beach mornings, better rates |
Month On Month: Best Time To Visit Dubai (January – December)
Use this section if you prefer to get a humble answer by the month, which is particularly true if your trip dates are fixed.
| Month | Dubai weather | Crowds/prices | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Coolest stretch, pleasant weather | Peak season, higher hotel rates | Dubai Shopping Festival-beach + city |
| February | Mild and sunny | Peak season | Attractions of the outdoors, desert tours |
| March | Warm, still comfortable | Busy | Great combination of beach+sightseeing |
| April | Warmer days | Calmer | Better value off outdoor mornings |
| May | Hot | Lower crowds | Pools, beach first, malls at afternoons |
| June | Very hot | Lower prices | Indoor Attractions, Mega malls |
| July | Extreme heat | Cheapest | Dubai Summer Surprises, indoor fun |
| August | Sweltering heat | Cheap | Best hotel deals indoor itinerary |
| September | Hot, easing | Value | Beach mornings, fewer crowds |
| October | Warm but improving | Rising demand | Good beach month, water sports |
| November | Beautiful weather returns | Peak builds | Outdoor dining, tours, events |
| December | Mild, festive | Peak season | Best weather + busy city vibe |
Best Time to Visit Dubai for Best Weather
If you’re coming primarily for the sake of comfort, your aim should be for the months when the heat is warm but bearable rather than oppressive.
When is Dubai’s best weather?
- Best weather: November December January February March
These months offer more uniform pleasant weather, clearer skies and comfortable evenings.
In addition, long outdoor days make sense in the winter. You can explore the skyline of Dubai, walk around the Dubai Creek and be real out without always trying to escape the sun.
What to pack for winter weather
Dubai winter isn’t cold (like Europe), but evenings can surprise you. Bring:
- A light jacket or a thin layer for nights
- Comfortable walking shoes for outdoor attractions
- Sunglasses (but you’ll continue to get lots of bright blue skies)
Best Time to Visiting Dubai for Deals ( hotels Rates + flight tickets )
Dubai prices are generally based on the weather. Therefore, when comfort increases so do hotel rates.
Peak season Vs cheaper seasons
- Peak season (‘Nov-Mar’). Highest demand. weather. biggest crowds
- Shoulder (Apr-May, Sep-Oct) Good value, fewer crowds, still fun
- Summer (Jun-Aug): Low prices and promos, but plan around the heat of the midday
If you have a choice between summer and fall, Sept. can be a sweet spot. It’s still hot, but often deals are still left to be made, and the city is less crowded than in winter.
Tip: Book earlier for the month of December and January. In the meantime, you can often book June and August! and still be able to get good rates.
Best Time to Visit Dubai for Shopping (Mega Malls + Festivals)
Dubai is Known for Shopping Dubai and Time is of the Essence If You Want the Biggest Promotions
Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF): best time for great deals
The Dubai Shopping Festival normally operates from January to February (dates change). It’s one of the best times to visit dubai if your objective is retail and entertainment.
Expect:
- Major discounts at cross brands
- Prize draws and promotions
- Pop-up events, fashion show and family activities
A lot of action revolves around Dubai Mall, but deals are available in many malls and outlets. For official dates please look at listings for tourism in Dubai: https://www.visitdubai.com/
Dubai Summer Surprises: summer sale in summer heat
Dubai Summer Surprises is tailored for the summer season, when the outdoor weather can be very harsh. Because the city slopes into indoor attractions, however, DSS can still make summer a wise value trip.
You’ll often find:
- Back-to-back sales
- Family bundles & hotel promos
- Indoor entertainment in many of the malls and mega malls
Best Time To Visit Dubai Events (Food, Film, Sport)
Dubai’s calendar is packed, and events combine well with some good weather.
Dubai Food Festival (Best time for foodies)
The Dubai Food Festival usually occurs during the cool season of the year (dates vary). It’s perfect if you want to have outdoor food markets and pop-ups and you don’t want to fight in the middle of the day. For event updates, use Dubai official event channels https://www.visitdubai.com/whats-on
Dubai International film festival (DIFF)
The Dubai International Film Festival has always been a major cultural attraction. However, schedules can change from year to year so make sure whether it’s running or not before planning around it.
Horse racing and winter energy sports
Dubai’s outdoor sports scene is finished off with more fun in winter. Therefore, if you are one who likes to attend big-ticket sporting events, try to plan for the cooler months of the year when the crowds and energy are at a higher level.
Best time to visit Beaches in Dubai + Sea Temperatures
A Dubai beach trip can be amazing, but comfort relies not only on air heat, but also water in the sea.
Best months to enjoy the beach in comfort
For most sun-seekers, the best balance comes in the form of:
- October – May (swimming, lounging and beach clubs)
In the winter, the water may seem cooler, especially in January. Still, it is refreshing to many travellers, and the air is not uncomfortable.
Where to go: Kite beach, Palm Jumeirah
- Kite Beach: Good for walking, leisure time at the beach, and water sports
- Palm Jumeirah: Butt-Naked Beach Clubs, Resort-Style Beaches
During the summer, the sea can have the temperature of bath water. Meanwhile, the humidity can be intense, so consider sunrise beach time and move inside afterwards.
Best time to Visit Dubai for Outdoor Attractions
If your must do list includes icons and exploring the outdoors, take to months in bearable temperatures.
Burj Khalifa and skyscraper views
The Burj Khalifa is popular all year, but it is more comfortable to spend time outside during the winter season around Downtown Dubai. Additionally, there are often clearer skies if you plan on getting crisp photos of Dubai’s skyline.
Dubai Creek and old Dubai walks
Dubai Creek and surrounding souks are better places to enjoy without getting overheated when walking around slowly. Therefore aim for November to March or either early morning during shoulder season.
Miracles Dubai Miracle Garden (seasonal)
The Dubai Miracle Garden is a winter season attraction. It normally begins opening in the cool months of the year and closes before the peak summer months. Check the current dates to make sure you go: https://www.dubaimiraclegarden.com/
Theme parks and “what if its too hot?”
Dubai has theme parks and experiences that work all year round. In summer, focus on:
- Indoor attractions: indoor attractions within malls
- Early morning outdoor time
- Late-night activities under cooling temperatures
Visiting Dubai In Summer: How To Enjoy its Extreme Heat
Dubai in July or September can still be worth it though, at least for budget travellers. However, you need a heat smart plan.
Use this summer structure:
- Perform outdoor activities early (sunrise to mid morning)
- Go inside during the middle of the day (malls, museums, aquariums)
- Go outside at night (walks, views, eating)
This is where Dubai shines because the city in general is designed for climate-controlled comfort. You can finally spend hours inside Dubai Mall and other many malls and still have a complete itinerary.
Visiting in Ramadan (Holy Month) What Tourists Should Know
You can definitely come here during the holy month of Ramadan. In fact some travellers like it because the city can seem more tranquil.
Key changes to expect:
- Some restaurants change time of day (outside hotels especially)
- Public behavior expectations are conservative in some areas
- Evening life is very good after sunset
Because rules and norms can change, consult up to date guidance from official sources before you travel.
Add-On Trips – Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah
If you’re using Dubai as a base, look at places to visit nearby.
Best time to add Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi has similar weather patterns. Therefore, the same answer comes: Winter months and shoulders are easy for sightseeing.
Best time for Ras Al Khaimah
Ras al Khaimah is great for Nature and Resorts. Cooler months make it a lot more comfortable to go outdoors especially if you want to take a hike or explore.
FAQs: Best Time to Visit Dubai (Fast Answers)
What is the Best Time To Visit Dubai?
January and February are first choice for weather, although busy and pricey.
When is Dubai peak season?
Dubai peak season is generally between November and March.
Is Dubai too hot in July?
For many people, yes. July is a time when the weather can be extreme with heat and humidity, plan mostly indoor attractions.
When are hotel rates the lowest?
Usually in the summer (June-August) and occasionally in September – depending on demand.
Conclusion: What Is The Best Time To Visit Dubai According To You
The ideal way to visit Dubai is often in the months of November to March if you want to take advantage of the best weather, outdoor activities, and a classic Dubai experience. If you are looking to have a balance of comfort and cost, April-May and September-October will not have as many crowds and the hotels are often at a better price. If your priority is savings, the summer can provide you the best deals but you will have to plan around the heat of the summer weather and focus on malls, shows, and other indoor attractions.
No matter what time of year you visit dubai, position your dates according to your priorities, be it weather, shopping, beaches or festivals, you’ll be able to create a trip that’s easy, rather than tiring.
