
The best time to go to Dubai: Find the perfect season to visit
The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter, from November to March when the weather is just right. But every season has its perks. You can find something for yourself all year round in Dubai, whether it's fewer tourists, cheaper flights, or exciting festivals.

The best time to visit Dubai
The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March, when the city becomes pleasantly warm, with daytime temperatures hovering between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F). It's the perfect season for exploring the souks, reading your favorite book under a parasol by the beach, or dining under the stars.
However, the "best" time to visit Dubai really depends on what you're looking for. If you thrive in sizzling heat and don't mind temperatures climbing well past 40°C (104°F), the summer months might suit you, too. While temperatures get extreme, Dubai is way less touristy during the off-season, which means unbeatable price offers on flights and hotels. Plus, indoor attractions like the Dubai Mall or Ski Dubai become great air-conditioned escapes that make the heat a bit more manageable.
So whether you're chasing mild winters or spicy summers, Dubai has something to offer all year round.
The peak season (November to March)
November to March is Dubai's peak tourist season — the only time of year when the weather is mild and comfortable. For the rest of the year, Dubai will either be hot or boiling hot.
Winter is the perfect time for outdoor activities, whether you're into water sports, snorkeling, or simply relaxing under a thatched umbrella on a pearly sand beach. The cool temperatures may also make trips to the desert more enjoyable — you can't miss the wildlife of the Al Marmoom Desert and the red dunes of Lahbab.
The only downside of the peak season is that you won't be alone in taking advantage of the emirate's pleasant weather. It's crowded in Dubai during winter, so book your hotels and flights early. And don't forget a light rain jacket if you're visiting somewhere between January and March — it might get rainy.
Peak season events and festivals
Winter months in Dubai are more than just perfect weather and a grand New Year's celebration — this time of the year, the city becomes home to exciting events and festivals. Add these spectacular events to your plans:
Dubai Shopping Festival. The Dubai Shopping Festival typically runs for about a month, starting in late December and ending in late January. And it is about much more than just bargain hunting. From entertainment to fashion shows, fine dining, cultural showcases, theme parks, outdoor adventures, and everything in between — the city comes alive with vibrant activities and unforgettable experiences for the whole family.
Dubai Food Festival. The Dubai Food Festival is every foodie's dream, turning the city into a hub of flavors. You'll try new dishes (obviously) and themed menus, get cooking tips from celebrity chefs, and enjoy a mix of local and global cuisine. Usually held from late February to early May, it's a must for your travel plans.
Dubai Marathon. The Dubai Marathon is one of the world's most popular marathons. In addition to a full marathon, the event includes a 10K race, a 4K Fun Run, and a race for families. The flat, scenic route passes through the iconic Burj Al Arab, Dubai Marina, and Media City. Just remember — Dubai's climate can be tough, so train yourself properly before you hit this scenic route.
Dubai International Jazz Festival. This annual music extravaganza isn't just for jazz lovers — it blends jazz, blues, soul, and pop at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre which is famed for its excellent acoustics. This three-day spectacle also offers food stalls and various interactive activities, creating a lively, festive, and vibrant ambiance.
The off-season (June to August)
Dubai's off-season falls during the summer months, from June to August, when the heat becomes almost unbearable, often exceeding 40°C (104°F). While it might be very sweaty and uncomfortable during the summer in Dubai, it's the perfect time for indoor attractions, such as shopping at the Dubai Mall, skiing in Ski Dubai, or exploring the lush indoor rainforest at Green Planet.
The best thing about Dubai's off-peak season is that it's way less crowded than the high season. Hotels and flights are cheaper, attractions and tours come at discounted prices, and malls and restaurants offer summer promotions. And everywhere has an AC, so it's not that hard to avoid the heat.
The shoulder season (April to May and September to October)
During the shoulder season in Dubai, temperatures climb to 35°C (95°F) — the days get warm, but the evenings are comfortable. The humidity is moderate but far less intense than during the peak season, so it's ideal for trips to desert safaris, beach outings, and dining in open-air venues.
Even though it's cooler in Dubai during the shoulder season, don't forget sunscreen — the sun can still be intense. Also, while sandstorms don't happen every day, they are the most common in these transitional months between seasons. If you encounter one during your holiday in Dubai, it's best to stay inside or wear a mask to avoid irritating your respiratory system. In these cases, a weather app will be your friend.
Shoulder season events and festivals
If you're visiting Dubai during the shoulder season, don't miss the chance to catch these events:
GITEX Global. Every October, Dubai becomes the epicenter of innovation, where AI, VR, robotics, and things you didn't even know existed take center stage. If you ever wanted to see a flying car, chat with humanoid robots, or simply learn more about cybersecurity, GITEX is THE place.
Middle East Film and Comic Con. The Middle East Film and Comic Con is heaven for all die-hard comics, anime, and superhero movie fans. Usually taking place in April, this festival offers three days of thrilling pop culture for families and friends with meets and greets with celebrity guests, workshops with legendary creators, and cosplay competitions.
Ramadan night markets. When the sun sets during Ramadan, Dubai becomes a festival of handcrafted goods, traditional Emirati foods, fragrant spices, live oud performances, and workshops of traditional crafts. Whether you're looking for henna art or a juicy bite of baklava, these markets are a must-visit.
Must-have things to bring with you to Dubai
Already booked your ticket to Dubai? It's time to start packing, then. We've put together a list of the essential items for your UAE trip to help you stay organized and make the countdown to your holiday even more exciting:
Lightweight clothes. Dubai is hot, so pack lightweight linen, hemp, or silk clothes.
Modest attire. If you plan to visit mosques in Dubai, pack clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.
SPF. Bring sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to deal with the extreme sun in Dubai.
Electrical adapter. Dubai uses Type G plugs like the ones in the UK.
Reusable water bottle. Staying hydrated is essential in Dubai's intense heat. Tap water is perfectly safe to drink there, so you can refill your bottle whenever you need.
Local currency. Having a little cash on you while traveling in a foreign country is always a good idea. Slip some dirhams into your wallet.
An eSIM to stay online in Dubai. Staying connected on holiday is a must, but the struggle to get a working SIM isn't. That's where an eSIM like Saily comes in — a convenient and reliable option to get online while traveling. Simply download the eSIM app, buy a plan for Dubai, and activate it as soon as you land. No queuing by the SIM card vending machine at the airport, no fiddling with SIM cards, and no complicated setups. eSIMs are fast and simple.

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Final call
Rich and dazzling Dubai has something for everyone all year round. While you'll probably enjoy the city during the winter the most, when the weather doesn't get too hot, off and shoulder seasons can surprise you with stunning events and attractions. Ever wanted to see a magical firework show on New Year's Eve or stroll the Ramadan markets? Take this as a sign to book your trip to Dubai! And make sure to download an eSIM for your trip so you can share every moment of your vacation with your loved ones.
FAQ


Aurelija is all about off-grid vacations, whether it's escaping to Scotland's remote highlands or climbing sharp Alpine peaks. The further from bustling cities, the better. But even in the wild, she’s got to share that perfect shot of a free-roaming cow above the treeline. And that’s what eSIMs are for!