Summers in Dubai are not for the faint-hearted. It’s common for many expatriates living in the city to return to their home countries during the summer months to avoid the heat.
In May and June, just before summer really gets going, highs regularly reach between 100°F and 104°F, climbing to 109°F in July and August, with lows barely dipping below 86°F. However, if you are good with the heat and plan to spend much of your holiday in the pool with a book, these months are the best time to find good deals at some of the city’s leading hotels. And if you are looking to do some shopping during your trip, several of Dubai’s air-conditioned malls participate in Dubai Summer Surprises – eight weeks of offers and events.
As the temperatures begin to dip in September, humidity levels rise, averaging around 55 percent. The average temperature drops to 92°F, although highs of 104°F are still common.
By October, most Dubai residents begin to breathe a sigh of relief, settling back down to a pleasant 86°F, and most of the city’s bars and restaurants declare al fresco season officially open.
Do temperatures vary across the UAE?
Due to the UAE’s diverse landscapes, temperatures around the country’s seven emirates can vary by up to 41°F. With most of the country’s urban hubs, such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, located along the coast, temperatures can feel cooler, although are more prone to humid conditions in the hotter months.
The northern emirates of Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah—with their rocky, mountainous landscapes—often experience slightly cooler summers, offering some respite for those who flock to their beaches for summer staycations. The north coast of the country is also more prone to rain in the winter months.
The highest temperature ever recorded in the UAE was 125.7°F, by the National Center of Meteorology and Seismology in July 2002.
Looking for some quick facts? Here are the main takeaways:
Best months for city sightseeing: January, February, December
Best months for sun seekers: March, April, November
Best months for shopping: July, August, December
A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller.
