Best Time to Visit Dubai

Have you ever dreamed of visiting Dubai, the city of superlatives? The city that boasts the world's tallest building, largest shopping mall, biggest fountain show, and most luxurious hotel? Welcome to Dubai, the city of wonders. But you may wonder when is the best time to visit Dubai?  Generally speaking, the best time to visit Dubai is the winter months (November to April) as the pleasant weather and a lively atmosphere. However, this is not the only answer, as choosing when to go to Dubai also depends on several factors such as weather, budget, activities, etc.

In this article, we will explore the best time to visit Dubai, based on the climate, the crowds, the interests and events. Click to Jump the section:

• Climate and Weather in Dubai
• Best Times to Avoid the Crowds
• Best Time to Visit Dubai for Outdoor Activities
• Important Events in Dubai
• Visiting Dubai During Ramadan

Climate and Weather in Dubai

The climate and weather in Dubai are influenced by its location near the Tropic of Cancer. Dubai has a subtropical desert climate, with clear skies, sunshine, and high temperatures throughout the year. Rainfall is rare and erratic. Any showers are usually in the winter months (December to March).

Dubai has two main seasons: summer (May to October) and winter (November to April). Summer is very hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F), making it uncomfortable to stay outdoors for long periods. Winter is cooler and drier, with temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 30°C (86°F), making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions. 

Dubai Temperature History 2022 from weatherspark.com

Best Times to Avoid the Crowds

Dubai is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world, especially from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The city sees the highest number of visitors in its balmy winter months (November to March), when the weather is pleasant and there are many festivals and events taking place. 

However, visiting Dubai during winter also means that you will have to deal with more crowds and queues at the major attractions, such as the Burj Khalifa, the Burj Al Arab, or the Palm Jumeirah. You may also have to pay more for flights and hotels, as well as for tickets and entry fees. Therefore, it is advisable to book your trip well in advance and plan your itinerary carefully.

The summer months (June to August) are the least crowded and cheapest time to visit Dubai, as most tourists avoid the scorching heat and humidity. You can find lower rates on flights and hotels, as well as discounts on attractions and activities. You can also enjoy indoor attractions such as malls, museums, aquariums, ski slopes, etc. However, visiting Dubai during summer also means that you will have to limit your outdoor activities and adventures, such as desert safaris, water sports, or amusement parks. You will also have to respect the local culture and avoid eating or drinking in public during Ramadan.

The shoulder seasons (April to May and September to October) offer a good balance between crowds and climate for sightseeing in Dubai. You can enjoy warm weather without being too hot or humid, and moderate crowds without being too busy or expensive. However, these months may also be unpredictable in terms of weather and availability of some attractions and services.

Tips and Recommendations for Choosing the Best Time to Visit Dubai for Outdoor Activities

Depending on your interests and preferences, you may want to visit Dubai for sightseeing or outdoor activities during different times of the year. Here are some tips and recommendations for choosing the best time to visit Dubai for sightseeing based on your interests:

• If you want to see the iconic landmarks of Dubai, such as the Burj Khalifa, the Burj Al Arab, or the Palm Jumeirah, you may want to visit during the winter months, when the visibility is better and the skies are clear. However, be prepared to pay more and wait longer for tickets and entry.

• If you want to experience the cultural and historical side of Dubai, such as the Al Fahidi Historical District, the Jumeirah Mosque, or the Dubai Museum, you may want to visit during any time of the year, as these attractions are mostly indoors or shaded. However, avoid visiting on Fridays (the Muslim day of prayer), when many places are closed or have reduced hours.

• If you want to enjoy some outdoor activities and adventures in Dubai, such as desert safaris, water sports, or amusement parks, you may want to visit during the cooler months (November to March), when the weather is more comfortable and suitable for being outdoors. 

Important Events in Dubai

Dubai hosts many events and festivals throughout the year, which can add more fun and excitement to your sightseeing trip. However, some events may also attract more crowds and increase the costs of your trip. Therefore, it is important to check the calendar of events before planning your trip to Dubai. Some of the most popular events and festivals in Dubai are:

The Dubai Shopping Festival (December to January): This is one of the biggest shopping events in the world, which offers amazing deals and discounts on everything from electronics to fashion. You can also enjoy various entertainment shows, concerts, fireworks, raffles, etc.

Eid al-Adha (July or August): This is another important festival for Muslims, which commemorates Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son for God. It is celebrated by sacrificing an animal, sharing meat with the poor, and performing pilgrimage to Mecca. You can also enjoy the religious ceremonies and celebrations, such as prayers, parades, shows, etc.

Visiting Dubai During Ramadan

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, based on observations of the phases of the moon, and the start of Ramadan in 2023 will be from March 23 to April 21.

In this auspicious month of Muslim reunion and prayer, every day between sunrise and sunset, they purify their character, discipline themselves, and enhance restraint and self-discipline through fasting forms such as "not eating", but when the sun goes down, they can enjoy a delicious and rich Iftars with their friends and relatives.

If your trip to Dubai coincides with this period, you can witness the city's changing pace during this period. People will celebrate the Holy month with a series of events and it will also be an opportunity to experience another side of Dubai.

During Ramadan, there are no special restrictions on non-Muslim food travel in Dubai, and shopping malls such as The Dubai Mall and the Mall of the Emirates, as well as many restaurants, will extend their hours to welcome guests at different times. But try to avoid eating, drinking, smoking and chewing gum in public. Dress appropriately and cover your shoulders and knees when in public areas.

When the sun goes down, the Maghrib begins. The roar of the cannon marked the end of the day's fast. Tents are set up throughout the city to break the fast and enter the time of eating and socializing. Many restaurants offer Ramadan menus featuring a wide selection of traditional local dishes. Nightlife during this period will be extremely rich - the streets and shopping malls will be decorated with lights and shine. This is the perfect time to experience the glorious culture of the Arab region.