Dubai Weather

Despite doing their research, visitors from more temperate climates are often surprised just how hot it can be in Dubai. In the peak of summer, temperatures in Dubai reach the mid-40’s and can soar higher the further inland you go. Typically though, the peak tourist season from Europe to Dubai is between November and March when the weather is fantastic. The humidity has gone, there are a good number of sunshine hours and the evenings are pleasant enough to enjoy a spot of outside dining. It should be observed however, that Dubai has experienced a couple of cold winters in recent years. Some late evenings and early morning temperatures have dropped to as low as 10 – 12 degrees Celsius and in the neighbouring Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, they’ve even experienced snow in the mountains - but it’s not the norm!

Summer visitors will enjoy cheaper deals on all sorts of things, including hotels, as this is the off-peak season. To counter the effect of the off-peak season, the Dubai government has successfully introduced Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), a programme of activities for families and children taking place in and around the city. Starting in June and ending in September, the DSS helps reduce the flat spot of ‘out-of-the-region’ visitors and aids a smooth tourist economy through these extremely hot months.

Visitors that are brave enough to visit in the summer should be aware of a couple of important points:

• Don't think the heat gives you an excuse to walk around in a state of undress. Dubai may be a liberal place compared to the rest of the UAE, but you should still dress fairly modestly. This is even more true if you are planning to travel around and visit nearby Emirates such as Sharjah, Ajman or the city of Al Ain.

• It is also important to take care to avoid heatstroke and sunburn, particularly if you are not used to high temperatures and high humidity. Don’t be caught out by a nice sea breeze - don't bake on the beach during the hottest part of the day and remember to cover up; use sunscreen, drink plenty of water and do wear a hat. By the way sea temperatures can get up to 35 degrees!

Whilst not depicted on the chart below, there is the odd smattering of rain in the months of January, February and March. During these months the rain typically limits itself to the odd day or two, although in 2006 and 2007 there were several days in each of these months that had some extended downpours.

Back to the hot weather, the Dubai visitor should remember that the often-excessive heat of the outside is countered by the air conditioning on the inside. With some of the best and biggest shopping malls in the world, Dubai has the art of air-conditioning down to a tee. Irrespective of the time of year it is highly recommended to carry a lightweight jacket or wrap for excursions inside the malls, supermarkets and cinemas.

All in, Dubai offers some of the best and most consistent weather in the world and with a massive variety of activities both inside and outside to make the most of it.