Dubai is one of the greatest global cities, renowned for its incredible skyline, luxury shopping, and impressive culture. A vacation to Dubai will be one of a kind, and you will want to repeat it again and again if you visit it during the best time- between November and March.
Temperature (°C) | |||
Month | Min | Max | Mean |
January | 15.5 | 24.3 | 19.9 |
February | 16.6 | 25.9 | 21.2 |
March | 18.9 | 28.7 | 23.8 |
April | 22.4 | 33.6 | 28.0 |
May | 26.2 | 38.0 | 32.1 |
June | 28.7 | 40.2 | 34.4 |
July | 31.3 | 41.4 | 36.4 |
August | 31.6 | 41.8 | 36.7 |
September | 29.0 | 39.4 | 34.2 |
October | 25.5 | 35.8 | 30.6 |
November | 21.1 | 30.6 | 25.9 |
December | 17.4 | 26.5 | 21.9 |
Dubai is a year-round travel destination with a packed calendar of fun and adventure. It welcomes its tourists with open arms throughout the year. But the best and most unforgettable experience will be if you visit during winter, which is considered the best season to visit Dubai.
But take a look at the Average Temperature of Dubai throughout the year,
Season | Avg. Daytime Temperature | Avg. Nighttime Temperature |
Winter (Nov – March) | 18°C to 25°C | 10°C to 15°C |
Spring (April-May) |
25°C to 35°C | 18°C to 25°C |
Summer (Jun-Sep/Oct) | 40°C to 50°C | 28°C to 35°C |
Best Time to Visit Dubai: November to March
Winter is a season that many of us cherish, isn’t it? With its cool breeze and bright blue skies, it creates a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. It also brings a refreshing chill that wakes up our senses.
This season calls for cosy sweaters and warm scarves. Even the sunshine adds warmth to the atmosphere, and that’s the beauty of winter. Humans take time to enjoy the charm of winter in its simple and quiet way.
In Dubai, the winter season creates a lively atmosphere for vacation as the world slows down. The cooler months of the year provide a welcome relief to the city, making it one of the best times to visit Dubai.
The weather is perfect for outdoor activities, and it’s also the best time for many important events and festivals.
Dubai Temperature During Winters
In November, the temperature drops to a comfortable 25°C-18°C. It continues to cool down in December, reaching the low twenties, and evenings become chilly.
In January, the sun comes out occasionally, but the humidity remains low, and the temperature can drop to 15°C. February in Dubai sees rising temperatures, but the weather remains pleasant. You may experience mild rain and a few thunderstorms for about 3-4 days, which won’t affect your plans or events.
If you enjoy luxury shopping, outdoor activities, and great beach weather- March is the best month to visit. The temperatures are warm but comfortable before the summer heat arrives. So, the best time to visit Dubai is between November and March.
Now, let’s learn about the activities and attractions you can enjoy during winter.
Outdoor Activities to Do in Dubai during Winters
Winter in Dubai (November to March) offers pleasant, cool weather that makes outdoor activities truly enjoyable. The exclusive activities to try are,
Take a Dubai Desert Safari
The desert is much more comfortable in winter, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C, making it perfect for exploring the vast sand dunes. You can try-
- Dune Bashing: Thrilling rides over the golden sand dunes.
- Camel Rides: Traditional desert experiences, a must-do for visitors.
- Bedouin Experience: A delicious BBQ dinner under the stars, with cultural performances like belly dancing and tanoura shows.
Visit Dubai Miracle Garden
Millions of flowers are in full bloom during winter in Dubai. The world-famous flower garden is open from November to April when the weather is ideal for outdoor exploration. Dubai Miracle Garden features many flower sculptures and themed gardens that will mesmerise you.
Relax at the Beach
Winter brings mild and comfortable beach weather to Dubai, with temperatures around 22°C to 28°C, making it perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. If you are travelling with your family, beaches are the best option where everyone can enjoy.
- Jumeirah Beach: Perfect for lounging, with stunning views of the Burj Al Arab.
- Kite Beach: Known for its enthusiastic atmosphere, jogging tracks, and various water sports.
- Palm Jumeirah Beaches: Exclusive beaches with luxury resorts and stunning views of the city skyline.
- Water Sports: Try activities like jet-skiing, parasailing, and paddle boarding.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
The winter mornings in Dubai are cooler and calmer, making it an ideal time for a hot air balloon to see the desert landscape at sunrise. The highlight of this activity is the ariel and sunrise view, where you can witness the expansive dunes and desert wildlife from above.
Visit Global Village
Global Village is open from October to April, offering a lively outdoor atmosphere with pleasant winter weather, perfect for exploring its multicultural pavilions and attractions. There are cultural Pavilions from over 75 countries and live performances.
Do a Little Shopping at Souks
Dubai’s souks (traditional markets) are best explored in winter when the outdoor temperatures are comfortable, and you can wander through the narrow, bustling streets and buy many souvenirs. You will find many souks, such as Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Textile Souk.
Go to Dubai Opera
Winter is ideal for outdoor cultural experiences like attending open-air performances at Dubai Opera, where the temperature is pleasant, and the atmosphere is lively.
- Opera and Ballet: Watch world-class performances in this venue.
- Concerts: Enjoy music performances by international artists and local talents.
- Outdoor Events: Some events in the Dubai Opera Garden are held outdoors, with incredible views of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain.
Events & Festivals to Attend in Dubai During Winters:
Dubai Shopping Festival (January to February)
It is one of the city’s biggest annual events, held during the cooler winter months when tourists flock to Dubai for shopping, sales, and entertainment. Tourists get massive discounts, and amazing prizes and enjoy concerts, light shows, and spectacular fireworks displays throughout the festival. Also, they buy the best things from Dubai and take them back to their homeland.
Dubai World Cup (March)
It is the world’s richest horse race held in March, which takes place in Dubai’s comfortable winter weather, perfect for outdoor spectators.
Dubai International Film Festival (December)
It typically takes place in December, offering a cultural experience with film screenings, workshops, and industry talks, while Dubai’s cool winter nights set the stage for an artistic celebration.
You can watch premieres and screenings of films from around the world, including independent films, documentaries, and shorts.
Dubai Design Week
Held in November, Dubai Design Week is the region’s largest creative festival, which takes place when the weather is cool, making it comfortable for outdoor exhibitions and installations.
Dubai Jazz Festival
The Dubai Jazz Festival is held in February, during the city’s mild winter months. It offers an outdoor music experience in cooler weather, with performances by jazz legends and contemporary artists from around the world.
Dubai Marathon
The Dubai Marathon, held every January, is one of the largest and most prestigious marathons in the world. The cool winter weather is ideal for running.
Athletes from around the world compete in a full marathon and shorter races, including a 10K and a 4K fun run. The marathon is famous for its flat course, which allows for fast times and attracts top international runners.
International Boat Show
It is held in March and is the leading luxury boat and yacht exhibition in the region. It benefits from Dubai’s pleasant winter weather and offers a glimpse into the world of marine innovation.
Day Trips:
Visit Abu Dhabi: Take a day trip to the UAE capital, which has many places to visit. You can visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. You can also visit Yas Island and explore the world’s best attractions.
Dubai’s winter weather from November to March is great for outdoor adventures and exploring unique landmarks. The cooler temperatures make it much more pleasant to be outside. But note that as it is the peak tourist season, attractions may be more crowded, and hotel rates tend to be on the higher side.
Good Time to Visit Dubai: April and May
Dubai’s temperature and the humidity levels during spring are relatively moderate, which makes it more comfortable than the extreme summer months. However, as May approaches, humidity levels can start rising, especially in coastal areas like Jumeirah.
Dubai’s spring season typically spans between April and May, and it is one of the most comfortable times to visit the city before the scorching summer heat sets in. The sky is clear and sunny for nearly 11 hours each day, and there are no clouds.
The sun is very bright and strong during this time. The temperatures start to rise, but outdoor activities are still bearable, with average highs between 25°C and 35°C. This is a good time to visit if you want to avoid the peak-season crowds and can tolerate a bit of heat.
The temperatures are comfortable, making outdoor activities enjoyable despite the heat. This is an ideal time to visit for those seeking fewer crowds.
Outdoor Activities to Do in Dubai during Spring:
Explore Dubai Creek
Dubai Creek is a historical and cultural hub that is best enjoyed in the spring. Wandering through the area or taking a boat ride is a relaxing thing to do. Take a traditional wooden abra boat ride across the Creek to experience old Dubai in comfort.
Jumeirah Beach & Poolside Relaxation
Jumeirah Beach is one of Dubai’s most famous beaches, and the mild temperatures in spring (around 22°C to 28°C) are perfect for sunbathing and relaxing by the water. You can engage in thrilling water sports like jet-skiing, paddleboarding, or kite surfing.
You can also take a leisurely walk along the beachfront promenade or relax on the pristine sands with views of the iconic Burj Al Arab. The cool winter weather makes it perfect for lounging.
Visit Dubai Parks and Resorts
Dubai Parks and Resorts, features attractions like Motiongate, Legoland, and Bollywood Parks, which is best visited in spring when the weather allows for a full day of outdoor fun without the intense heat of summer.
Shopping & Entertainment Options:
Visit Mall of the Emirates and Dubai Mall
Spring brings pleasant temperatures, making it perfect for spending time indoors at Dubai’s iconic malls while escaping the heat of the summer months.
Shop from high-end international and local brands in one of Dubai’s top shopping destinations. These two malls also offer many attractions, such as Ski Dubai, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, and the Dubai Fountain.
Dubai Frame
Spring’s moderate weather makes the Dubai Frame a must-visit attraction, as the outdoor and panoramic experiences are more enjoyable than during the scorching summer heat.
Events & Festivals to Attend in Dubai During Spring:
Dubai Food Festival
At the Dubai Food Festival, you can explore a variety of food trucks and pop-up stalls showcasing street food from around the world. Enjoy special offers at top restaurants during Restaurant Week, which features different international cuisines. Join cooking workshops with celebrity chefs and learn more about Dubai’s food scene.
Dubai Art Season
You must explore contemporary art at the Art Dubai Fair, which features works from international and regional artists. You can also visit galleries, attend performances, and enjoy art installations throughout the city.
Spring in Dubai is perfect for shopping, entertainment, and cultural activities, thanks to the mild weather. All attractions can be enjoyed comfortably. Major events such as the Dubai Food Festival and Dubai Art Season offer immersive experiences, making this season an ideal time to explore the city.
Off-Peak Season to Visit Dubai: June to September
The months from June to September are extremely hot, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F), reaching up to 50°C (122°F) at times. While it’s too hot for outdoor activities, Dubai’s indoor attractions like malls, water parks, and restaurants are air-conditioned and perfect to visit during this time. Hotel rates are lower, and you can find good deals.
Summer in Dubai is very hot and sunny. Many people escape the heat by going to air-conditioned malls and restaurants. Because of this, the beaches are less crowded for those who can handle the high temperatures. It is also a good time to shop.
Indoor Activities to Do in Dubai During Summer:
Dubai Mall and Aquarium
The Dubai Mall offers a fully air-conditioned environment, providing the perfect escape from the scorching summer heat. It is home to over 1,200 shops, making it an ideal shopping destination for luxury brands, high-street fashion, and tech gadgets.
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world, housing thousands of marine creatures. You can explore the underwater tunnel for close-up views of sharks, rays, and exotic fish.
Ski Dubai
Skiing and snowboarding in an indoor snow park is a cool relief from the Dubai summer heat. Ski Dubai offers a unique winter experience right in the desert. Enjoy activities like skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and even penguin encounters.
Dubai Dolphinarium
The Dubai Dolphinarium is fully air-conditioned and provides a cool indoor experience with live performances. Watch highly trained dolphins and seals perform amazing tricks, flips, and stunts in an interactive show. You can also swim with dolphins in special programs or interact with them in a safe, controlled environment.
Visit the Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi Fort
Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi Fort offer an incredible cultural experience in air-conditioned spaces, perfect for exploring Dubai’s history. Learn about traditional Bedouin life, the rise of Dubai’s oil industry, and the cultural transformation of the region.
Enjoy a peaceful visit to this indoor museum, which is perfect for escaping the summer sun while learning about the city’s history and cultural heritage.
Aquaventure Waterpark
Although Aquaventure is an outdoor waterpark, it has many indoor areas, and the cool water rides are a great way to stay refreshed during Dubai’s intense summer heat. Experience thrilling water rides like the Leap of Faith, a 92-foot-high slide, and the Shark Attack slide.
IMG Worlds of Adventure
As one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world, IMG Worlds of Adventure is fully air-conditioned and the ideal summer destination. Explore different zones, including Marvel, Cartoon Network, and Lost Valley, featuring roller coasters, live shows, and 3D attractions.
Explore The Dubai Opera
The building’s unique dhow-shaped architecture and luxurious interior offer world-class performances, and the cool atmosphere provides an excellent escape from the summer heat. Enjoy international performances, from opera and ballet to musical concerts and theatre.
Entertainment Options in Dubai During Summer:
Shop at Outlet Malls
Outlet malls like Dubai Outlet Mall and The Outlet Village are fully air-conditioned and offer discounted prices on luxury brands, making them a perfect escape from the heat. Located close to major highways, these malls are easy to access and perfect for a summer shopping spree.
Try Indoor Dining Experiences
Dubai offers many indoor dining experiences, from gourmet restaurants to casual eateries, all set in air-conditioned venues. Try unique themed dining experiences like At.mosphere in the Burj Khalifa or Nobu at Atlantis The Palm. Enjoy exquisite dishes from top restaurant chefs like Pierchic, Coya, and Zuma.
Relax at Luxury Spas
A visit to a luxurious spa can be the ultimate way to relax and rejuvenate during the summer heat. At Madinat Jumeirah, Talise Spa is an award-winning spa that offers treatments like signature massages, facials, and holistic therapies in a serene, cool environment. Indulge in luxurious treatments and detox programs at the One&Only Royal Mirage or One&Only The Palm.
Visit Rooftop Bars & Lounges
Dubai’s rooftop bars offer astonishing views of the skyline while enjoying the cooler evening temperatures. Many rooftop bars offer cooling mist systems, making them perfect for an evening out during the summer.
Dubai’s summer is best enjoyed in the cool comfort of indoor activities, whether it’s shopping in air-conditioned malls, exploring unique experiences like Ski Dubai, or unwinding at luxury spas.
Dubai nightlife flourishes with rooftop bars, high-end dining options, and world-class entertainment, offering a variety of ways to stay entertained while escaping the heat.
Conclusion
Dubai is a great place to visit any time of the year. The best time to go depends on what you want, such as mild weather, exciting events, or fewer crowds. For most travellers, the ideal time is from November to March.
The best time to visit Dubai also depends on your budget. Winter has the most comfortable weather, but if you want lower hotel prices and fewer crowds, consider going in April or early May.
If you like cultural experiences and outdoor adventures, visiting in winter is best. This season lets you explore everything from the Old Dubai souks to luxury desert resorts without the extreme summer heat. Winter is full of events in Dubai.
While Dubai can handle the heat well, it’s important to be cautious during the summer months. Enjoy Dubai’s sunny weather! If you know your travel dates, don’t wait, check out our Dubai itinerary and book your trip now.
Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Time to Visit Dubai
What time of year is best for a beach vacation in Dubai?
Winter and early spring (November to April) are the best times for a beach vacation in Dubai, as the temperatures are pleasant for sunbathing, swimming, and water activities without the extreme heat of summer.
What are some indoor attractions to enjoy during the summer months in Dubai?
During the hot summer months, enjoy indoor attractions like Dubai Mall, Ski Dubai, IMG Worlds of Adventure, Dubai Aquarium, and Dubai Opera. These air-conditioned venues offer great entertainment while keeping you cool.
When is the best time to visit Dubai?
The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months (November to March), when the weather is pleasant and cooler, ranging between 24°C and 30°C (75°F to 86°F).
Can I visit Dubai during Ramadan?
Yes, you can visit Dubai during Ramadan (which shifts every year based on the Islamic lunar calendar). It’s an interesting cultural experience, but be aware that some restaurants and attractions may have adjusted hours, and eating/drinking in public places is restricted during daylight hours.
What are the peak tourist seasons in Dubai?
Dubai’s peak tourist season is during the winter months (December to February) due to the pleasant weather. However, the city can be crowded and more expensive during this time, especially around Christmas and New Year.
Is it too hot to visit Dubai in June or July?
Yes, June and July are extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). It’s advisable to plan indoor activities, such as shopping malls, water parks, or spa treatments, during these months.
When is the cheapest time to visit Dubai?
The cheapest months to visit Dubai are during the summer months (June to September), as it’s off-peak season due to the intense heat. You’ll find discounted flights and hotel rates, though outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather.