The United Arab Emirates combines futuristic cities with ancient desert traditions, offering world-class luxury, innovative architecture, and rich cultural heritage. From Dubai's soaring Burj Khalifa to Abu Dhabi's stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the UAE delivers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
The UAE has a hot desert climate with two distinct seasons: a cooler, pleasant winter (November to April) and an extremely hot, humid summer (May to October). Rainfall is minimal year-round, averaging 100-200mm annually mainly in winter. The country receives over 3,500 hours of sunshine annually, making outdoor activities year-round possible with appropriate timing.
Best time to visit
Best: November to March
Peak Season: November to March
Shoulder Season: October and April
Avoid: May to September
Best Reason:
Avoid Reason:
Month-by-month weather
Typical conditions throughout the year.
January
18C/64F
Coolest month, ideal beach and outdoor weather, peak tourist season
February
19C/66F
Perfect weather, Dubai Shopping Festival, very popular month
March
22C/72F
Warm and pleasant, Dubai World Cup horse race, Art Dubai festival
April
27C/81F
Getting warm, shoulder season beginning, good beach weather
May
33C/91F
Heat intensifying, outdoor activities best early morning only
June
37C/99F
Very hot and humid, indoor activities only midday
July
40C/104F
Hottest and most humid, beach clubs with cooling popular
August
40C/104F
Extreme heat continues, some locals leave for cooler destinations
September
37C/99F
Still very hot but humidity beginning to drop slightly
October
32C/90F
Heat easing, outdoor activities becoming possible, shoulder season
November
27C/81F
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, perfect weather returning, season begins
December
22C/72F
National Day celebrations, Christmas events, ideal weather, peak season
The seasons
What to expect in each part of the year.
Spring
Months: Mar-May
Temperatures rising from pleasant to hot. March is excellent with mild days around 24-28C. By May heat becomes intense reaching 38C+. Occasional sandstorms possible.
Summer
Months: Jun-Sep
Extremely hot and humid with temperatures 40-48C and humidity 70-90% near coast. Outdoor activities best avoided 10AM-6PM. AC essential everywhere. Hotels significantly cheaper.
Fall
Months: Oct-Nov
Temperatures begin dropping from 38C in October to comfortable 28C by November. Humidity decreases making outdoor activity pleasant again. This season sees increasing visitors.
Winter
Months: Dec-Feb
The UAE's best season with temperatures 18-25C during the day and 12-18C at night. Occasional rain and cloud cover. Perfect for beach, outdoor activities, and sightseeing.
Crowds & peak times
When to expect tourists and when to avoid them.
- High Season
- Nov-Mar (especially December holidays, NYE, and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November)
- Shoulder Season
- Oct and Apr-May
- Low Season
- Jun-Sep (extreme heat, lowest prices, thin tourist crowds)
Major events & festivals
Time your visit around what matters.
Dubai Shopping Festival
Month-long shopping extravaganza with massive discounts (25-75% off), raffles, fireworks, concerts, and entertainment. Retail paradise with deals on luxury and everyday items.
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Formula 1 season finale at Yas Marina Circuit. Twilight race with concerts, parties, and sporting excitement. Book hotels early as city fills up.
Dubai World Cup
World's richest horse race at Meydan Racecourse with $35 million prize money. Glamorous event with fashion, betting, and elite atmosphere.
Art Dubai
Leading international art fair showcasing contemporary artists from Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. Gallery exhibitions, talks, and cultural events throughout city.
Ramadan
Holy month of fasting with altered business hours, no public eating/drinking during daylight. Evening iftar feasts, night markets, special entertainment. Unique cultural experience.
Eid Al Fitr
3-4 day celebration marking end of Ramadan. Major holiday with fireworks, feasts, shopping deals. Most businesses closed. Book accommodations early.
Dubai Food Festival
Citywide culinary celebration with restaurant deals, food trucks, Beach Canteen, celebrity chef events. Perfect for food enthusiasts.
Emirates Airline Festival of Literature
Leading literature festival with authors, poets, and thinkers from around world. Talks, book signings, workshops at various venues.
Dubai Jazz Festival
International jazz artists perform at outdoor venue. Previous acts include Alicia Keys, John Legend. Relaxed atmosphere under stars.
National Day
UAE's biggest public holiday celebrating federation formation. Fireworks, parades, concerts, decorations. Streets alive with celebration and national pride.
Dubai International Film Festival
Film festival showcasing regional and international cinema. Premieres, Q&As with directors, red carpet events.
Dubai Fitness Challenge
30-day initiative encouraging 30 minutes daily exercise. Free fitness classes, sports activities, community events throughout city.