A month-by-month guide of when to visit United Arab Emirates
Discover the best time to visit the United Arab Emirates, with insights on weather, events, and travel seasons to help you plan your ideal trip.
The best time to visit the United Arab Emirates (UAE) largely depends on the type of experience you’re looking for. The cooler months from November to March are considered the peak travel season, offering pleasant temperatures ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and desert excursions. During this period, major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi host globally recognized events, including the Dubai Shopping Festival in January and February, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November, and various cultural and music festivals. The pleasant weather also makes it a great time for exploring the UAE’s vast desert landscapes, beautiful beaches, and wonderful city attractions.
April and May mark the transition to the hotter months, with temperatures rising but still manageable for those who prefer fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices. It’s an excellent time to experience the UAE’s indoor attractions, such as museums, shopping malls, and entertainment centres, while still enjoying early mornings or late evenings outdoors.
From June to September, the UAE experiences extreme summer heat, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). While outdoor activities are limited, this period is ideal for those seeking luxury experiences at reduced rates, as many hotels and resorts offer significant discounts. The UAE’s indoor attractions, including aquariums, theme parks, and luxury spas, remain popular during this time.
October sees temperatures gradually cooling, making it a pleasant month for early beach days and city exploration before the peak tourist influx. Events and festivals start returning, signalling the beginning of another lively travel season.
Whether you're visiting for cultural experiences, luxury shopping, adventure, or relaxation, planning your trip according to the UAE’s seasonal changes ensures you make the most of your time in this dynamic destination.
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January & February
These months bring the most pleasant weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F). It’s the perfect time for outdoor activities, from exploring the desert dunes to relaxing on the beaches. The Dubai Shopping Festival runs throughout January, attracting visitors with entertainment, concerts, and retail deals. February remains comfortable for sightseeing, making it a great time to visit cultural sites like Al Ain and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.
March
Temperatures start to rise slightly, but the weather remains pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Beaches are still comfortable before the intense summer heat sets in, offering great conditions for sunbathing and water sports. It’s a great time to visit the UAE’s beaches before they become too hot. The Formula 1 season may kick off with pre-season testing in the region, adding excitement for motorsport fans.
April & May
Spring marks the transition into summer, with rising temperatures that make midday outdoor activities challenging. However, early mornings and evenings remain pleasant, and hotel rates start to drop. This is a good time to explore indoor attractions such as Dubai’s museums, shopping malls, and theme parks. During Ramadan, which often falls in these months, visitors can experience cultural traditions, but should also be mindful of local customs, such as restrictions on eating and drinking in public during daylight hours.
June to September
These months bring the peak of summer, with extreme heat often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Outdoor activities are limited, but it’s an excellent time for luxury travellers looking for off-season hotel discounts. Indoor attractions, such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi and indoor ski slopes, remain popular. Eid Al-Adha, a major Islamic festival, often falls during this period, offering insight into local celebrations.
October
Temperatures gradually drop, making outdoor activities more comfortable again. The return of major events, such as the start of the Dubai Opera season and various food festivals, signals the beginning of the high season. Beach visits and desert safaris become enjoyable once more.
November & December
Cooler temperatures make these months some of the best for visiting the UAE. Outdoor attractions, from hiking in the Hajar Mountains to exploring Abu Dhabi’s cultural sites, are at their most enjoyable. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November attracts motorsport enthusiasts, while December brings festive celebrations, National Day events, and New Year’s Eve fireworks, particularly in Dubai.