Dubai is a popular travel destination that attracts tourists from all over the world with its ultra-modern architecture, shopping malls, beaches, and lively nightlife. However, as with most places, Dubai has its high and low seasons. If you’re planning a trip to Dubai, you’ll want to avoid visiting during the worst times in order to have the best experience. Here’s a guide to determining the worst time to visit Dubai in 2023.
What is Considered the Worst Time to Visit Dubai?
The worst time to visit Dubai is generally considered to be from mid-June through August. The main reason is that Dubai has a desert climate which brings extremely hot temperatures during these summer months. Daytime highs average 104-113°F (40-45°C) but can reach as high as 122°F (50°C). With humidity levels in the 90s most days, the perceived temperature or “feels like” temperature is even higher. Needless to say, sightseeing in this type of heat quickly becomes unbearable.
Another factor making Dubai less than ideal in summer is that some attractions operate on reduced hours or close entirely to avoid the midday heat. For example, many outdoor theme parks and water parks shorten their hours and cut back on shows and attractions. Popular spots like Burj Khalifa and desert safaris may also scale back operating times.
The combination of oppressive heat and limited sights and activities pushes Dubai’s peak tourism season to between October and April instead. Visitation drops off sharply in summer as most travelers try to avoid the worst heat. Hotels drop their prices significantly to attract those who do visit, but it’s still low season.
Why is Summer the Worst Time to Visit Dubai?
There are a few key factors that make Dubai’s summer months of June through August the worst time for traveling there:
- Extreme daytime high temperatures from 104-113°F (40-45°C) with spikes potentially above 120°F (49°C)
- Excessive humidity levels in the 90s making it feel even hotter than the actual temperature
- Many attractions operate on reduced hours or close entirely to avoid the midday heat
- Outdoor sightseeing quickly becomes unbearable in the oppressive heat and humidity
- Significantly fewer tourists visit, giving the city a much quieter and less energetic vibe
- Hotel prices drop up to 50% or more compared to peak season rates
Overall, the combination of extreme heat, limited attractions, and low tourist numbers make summer the worst time for the typical tourist experience in Dubai. Visiting in the cooler fall, winter, and spring months provides far better weather for enjoying all Dubai has to offer.
Are there any benefits to visiting Dubai at this time?
Though summer is considered the worst time to visit Dubai, there are a few potential benefits for travelers who choose to brave the heat. Below are some of the advantages of visiting during Dubai’s peak summer months:
- Cheaper airfares and hotel rates: With fewer travelers, airlines drop their fares by up to 30% between June and August. Hotels often reduce their prices by up to 50%, making it a great time for budget-minded travelers.
- Reduced crowds: Since most travelers avoid Dubai’s summer months, the city is much less crowded than during peak season. This means more elbow room while viewing attractions and fewer lines at major tourist sites.
- Unique experiences: With the majority of tourists avoiding Dubai in summer, certain activities become available that aren’t typically offered in other seasons. Hotels may offer special all-inclusive packages for a unique, personalized experience.
- Plenty of beach time: Despite the heat, you can still enjoy some of Dubai’s beaches. The warm waters usually reach 82-86°F (28-30°C) between May and October which is perfect for swimming or water sports.
Things people should avoid doing during this time
During this time, people should avoid engaging in outdoor activities like sightseeing and visiting theme parks, beaches, or waterparks. It’s important to stay hydrated and take regular breaks when participating in indoor activities as the air conditioning can be very dry.
Shopping malls are a great way to escape the heat but make sure to take plenty of sunscreen with you. It’s also recommended to carry a bottle of water and look for places with fans or misters to keep cool. As the weather can be unpredictable, people should also watch out for sand storms and dust clouds that crop up from time to time. Overall, it’s best to plan accordingly and take plenty of safety precautions when visiting Dubai during summer months.
When travelling to Dubai during the summer season, it’s also important to be aware of safety precautions. Wear lightweight clothes and carry a hat to protect yourself from sunburns. Also, try to stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible and avoid being outside at peak temperatures (12 pm to 4 pm). Finally, don’t forget your sunscreen and make sure you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. By following these simple tips, you can avoid any unpleasant experiences and make the most out of your Dubai trip during the summer months.
When is the best time to visit Dubai?
For the best experience, Dubai is best visited between October and April. During these months, temperatures average 85–95°F (29–35°C) during the day with a slight drop in temperature overnight. Rainfall is also higher during this period with up to 8 inches (21 cm) falling annually.
Humidity levels are much lower making it more comfortable outdoors. Attractions, hotels, and restaurants also operate on normal hours giving you full access to the city’s attractions. With its mild climate and plenty of activities available, this is generally considered to be the best time to visit Dubai in 2023.
If budgeting is an issue, spring (March-May) is a great time to visit with hotel prices slightly lower than the fall months. Also, Dubai’s popular spring festival is held in March/April with parades, fireworks, and shopping promos to take advantage of.
Things to to in Dubai
Dubai is filled with plenty of attractions and activities to keep you busy. List of the things to do while in Dubai.
- Skydiving: If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, try skydiving at one of Dubai’s drop zones.
- Desert safari: Take a guided tour through the desert on a camel or 4×4 jeep and experience the unique sights and sounds of this amazing landscape.
- Ski Dubai: Located inside the Mall of the Emirates, this indoor ski resort offers real snow slopes for skiing and snowboarding.
- Burj Khalifa: Take a ride to the top of this iconic tower and get some incredible views of the city.
- Dubai Miracle Garden: Marvel at more than 50 million flowers spread across 45 acres at this world-renowned floral park.
- Palm Jumeirah Island: Take a ride on the Dubai Monorail and explore this man-made island.
- Shopping: With its incredible array of shopping malls, there is no shortage of places to find great deals in Dubai.
These are just some of the things you can do while in Dubai. Whether you’re looking for adventure or an opportunity to shop, Dubai has something for everyone! So pack your bags and get ready to experience one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
Read the related article about Worst Time to Visit Spain: A Month-by-Month Guide for 2023
Tips for Travelling to Dubai
- Dress appropriately with light and loose clothing: Dubai is a very conservative city and there are laws in place that require people to dress modestly. To avoid any unwanted attention, make sure to cover up as much skin as possible.
- Be respectful of local customs: The UAE is an Islamic country and visitors should be mindful of the local culture and religion. Respecting religious practices like not eating or drinking in public during Ramadan is essential to being a responsible traveller.
- Plan out your days: Dubai may be small but its attractions can take up a lot of time, especially if you’re going off the beaten path. Be sure to plan out your days beforehand and book in advance for popular attractions.
- Take advantage of free activities: There are plenty of free activities in Dubai that are accessible to everyone. Be sure to take advantage of these including public parks, beaches, and markets for a unique experience.
- Research restaurant prices: Prices at restaurants can be expensive so it’s best to do your research beforehand. There are plenty of budget friendly options available but you will still need to pay attention to the cost as some places may be more expensive than others.
- Check the weather: Dubai’s weather can be quite extreme and fluctuate quickly, so make sure to check the forecast before your trip. You don’t want to get caught in a sandstorm with no way to escape!
Finally, it’s important to remember that most of the attractions in Dubai are open during the day and close at night. Therefore, it’s best to plan your activities ahead of time and make sure you have enough time to enjoy everything that Dubai has to offer.
Related article:
Hongdae Shopping Street: The Ultimate Guide when Traveling to Korea
Overall, summer is the worst time to visit Dubai due to extreme temperatures and limited activities. Travelers should plan their trips around fall or winter months when temperatures are mild and there are plenty of things to do. Additionally, research is key for finding better deals on flights and accommodation during this period. Finally, be sure to dress appropriately and respect local customs while in Dubai.
Other Links:
Exploring Nude Beaches in Hawaii: History, Culture and Top Picks [Update guide for 2023]
15 Things to be Careful of in Isla Mujeres

Hi, I’m Kemp Alexander and I’m an adventurous travel blogger. I’m a passionate explorer who loves discovering new cultures, experiencing unique customs, and capturing my journeys through stories. Whether it’s trekking through the mountains of Thailand or eating local delicacies in South America, every journey is an opportunity to uncover something new. I’m a vibrant traveler with a knack for capturing the beauty of each destination in all forms: visually, mentally, emotionally. Through my blog I take readers on unforgettable trips to far-off places around the world while providing helpful insight for their own journeys. Follow me on my incredible adventures!