Best Travel Time & Climate
The UAE has a subtropical desert climate: extremely hot summers, pleasantly warm winters, little rain. The right travel time can make the difference between enjoyment and discomfort.
🟢 Best Time: November – March (High Season)
The absolute recommendation. Daytime temperatures of 24–30°C, little rain, perfect beach weather. All outdoor activities possible: desert safaris, hiking in Hatta, water sports. Note: This is also high season — hotels are 30–80% more expensive, popular attractions crowded. Christmas/New Year and Easter holidays are peak times.
🟡 Transition Period: October and April
Still or already warm (30–35°C), but bearable. Significantly cheaper hotels than in the high season. October is often the best choice for budget-conscious travelers — the sea still has 28–30°C bathing temperature. In April, temperatures rise noticeably again.
🔴 To Avoid: May – September
Temperatures of 40–50°C, plus oppressive humidity of 80–100% on the coast. Everything takes place indoors — malls, hotels, air-conditioned taxis. Outdoor activities are practically impossible. However: Hotels cost a fraction (5-star luxury from 80€/night), attractions are empty, and many restaurants offer summer specials. Those who can endure the heat and want to save money will find bargains here.
Climate Table: Dubai
| Month | Air °C | Water °C | Sun Hours | Rain Days | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 14–24 | 21 | 8 | 1 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| February | 15–25 | 21 | 8 | 1 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| March | 17–28 | 22 | 9 | 1 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| April | 21–33 | 24 | 10 | 0 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| May | 25–38 | 28 | 11 | 0 | ⭐⭐ |
| June | 28–40 | 30 | 11 | 0 | ⭐ |
| July | 30–42 | 32 | 11 | 0 | ⭐ |
| August | 30–42 | 33 | 10 | 0 | ⭐ |
| September | 27–39 | 32 | 10 | 0 | ⭐ |
| October | 23–35 | 29 | 10 | 0 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| November | 19–30 | 26 | 9 | 0 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| December | 15–26 | 23 | 8 | 1 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
💡 Tipp
November is the absolute sweet spot: The heat is over, the sea is still warm (26°C), hotels have not yet switched to high season prices, and attractions are pleasantly empty. If possible — November!