The best time to visit Dubai: few crowds, great deals, and blissed-out weather

Dubai appeals to many—from shopaholics and beach bums, to thrill seekers and lovebirds. Whether you’re in need of a sun-filled break or planning a family adventure, find out when’s the best time to visit Dubai. Between November and March, hotels and airfare see a price hike due to the peak season. Pleasant temperatures and shopping festivals are plus points, but expect more company at Dubai’s beaches since it’s the year-end break.

Traveling on a budget? Visit during the off-peak months from June to August. Theme parks and tours see thinner crowds, but Dubai’s merciless summer means scorching temperatures. The balmy shoulder seasons—April to May, and September to October—will lure sun-worshippers and honeymooners.

We’ve broken down Dubai’s peak, off-peak and shoulder months, and what to expect for each. Time your next trip according to what you want to see and do in Dubai.

With clear skies, desirable weather and a full line-up of events, November to March is the best (and busiest) time to visit Dubai. Winter in Dubai sees average temperatures hovering around 77℉. Rain is more likely to happen only in January and downpours are short-lived. Nothing will hamper your plans too much, but have an umbrella handy just in case.

By February, temperatures would have cooled even further to around 68℉. It gets chilly in the evenings so pack some long-sleeved shirts and a sweater to keep warm. For the best middle ground, consider arriving between mid-November and mid-December.

The UAE celebrates its National Day on December 2. A raft of parades, dhow races and traditional performances take center stage to commemorate this special day. To top it off, a captivating fireworks show wraps up the glorious festivities. Keen on traveling during the peak season? Brace yourself for congested areas and pricey hotel rates. Reserve your accommodation early to ensure availability.

The emirate also plays host to the Dubai Shopping Festival—the largest of its kind in the UAE— in January. If your trip extends past the new year, unleash your inner bargain-hunter to take advantage of steep discounts of up to 90% on anything from electronics to designer gear and jewelry. Get a spare suitcase ready.

In March, you can participate in an array of exciting events like the Dubai World Cup, Art Dubai and the Dubai Food Festival. The weather is also mild with the onset of spring, neither too hot nor humid.

If getting a tan and swimming in the Persian Gulf are top priorities, visit Dubai in April or May. The weather is lovely, and airfare and hotel rates are in the affordable range in spring. The heat and humidity would have fizzled out, and lodging is much easier to attain.

Enjoy inviting sea temperatures and long daylight hours. The cool waters—between 70 and 80℉—are optimal for surfing or wakeboarding. Alternatively, settle for a refreshing dip, minus the crowds.

Not a beach lover? Indulge in a relaxing yacht tour instead, especially if you’re traveling in a group or with kids. Spot Bluewaters Island, Palm Jumeirah and the iconic Burj Al Arab from the coast, while tucking into tasty barbecue.

Visiting Dubai in September or October? As winter approaches, prepare for shorter days and lower temperatures. Pro-tip: Make time for camel racing—a prestigious event at Al Marmoom Camel Race Track. If watching this doesn’t leave your heart racing, perhaps riding a camel in the desert will. Other things to do during the fall months include: city walking tours and mouth-watering food trails at the local souks.

If you have a day to spare, consider joining a full-day sightseeing tour to neighboring Abu Dhabi. Admire the UAE’s rich capital and what it has to offer—from the revered Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi to the bustling Abu Dhabi Dates Market.

The Dubai summer is scorching hot. The sun is unrelenting between June and August, with hardly any rain. Expect at least 10 to 12 hours of daylight, high levels of humidity, and temperatures of up to 107℉. Dubai’s tropical desert climate makes it prone to sandstorms. Tune in to local weather updates before confirming your activity for the day.

If you’re organizing activities, park them in the early mornings or late evenings. Trade Dubai’s blazing beaches for cool water parks: Take advantage of shorter lines at Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark, Wild Wadi Waterpark or Laguna Waterpark in La Mer.

Some attractions like Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village Dubai remain closed in summer. Thinking of heading to a bar or nightclub? Most terraces and rooftop bars are closed throughout Dubai’s harsh summer months. Those that remain open like Barasti Beach Bar and Zero Gravity usually have limited seating indoors, so book a table well in advance.

The dry, off-peak season is an excellent time to retreat into any of Dubai’s air-conditioned megamalls or indoor attractions. Start with the fantastic museums or cloud-piercing observation decks and towers.

Summer in Dubai is a popular time for backpackers and budget travelers to fly in. Airfare is much cheaper, while hotels and retail stores offer steep discounts to draw tourists. Rates at some 5-star hotels can drop by a whopping 75%, with free room upgrades or dining credits to boot. It’s your chance to enjoy a luxury vacation on a budget.

Dubai carries a more subdued vibe during Ramadan. As the Islamic calendar depends on the lunar cycle, the 30-day period varies each year. If your trip coincides with this holy season, schedule it before Eid al-Fitr—a three-day mega celebration—to avoid the city’s congestion.

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. This is the best period to experience the cultural and spiritual side of Dubai. Observe local traditions, roam around street bazaars and stunning mosques like Jumeirah Mosque, and participate in grand iftars (evening meal to break the fast). Most shops and eateries will adjust their opening hours. Many malls, theme parks, and tourist attractions are emptier in the day, but the city comes alive at night.

When you’re there, it’s important to be respectful of local customs. Eating, drinking or smoking in public is strictly forbidden throughout the day. Also, be mindful of what you wear. Opt for loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

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