Thinking about visiting Dubai in winter? Winter is a great time to visit this diverse city, and I will cover exactly why below. Here is everything you need to know – like pros and cons, what to see, and weather – before spending winter in Dubai.
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Visiting Dubai in the winter months is frankly a great idea.
The weather is great – a far cry from the Dubai summer high temps – and the city is festive. If fact, winter in Dubai is indisputably the best time to go in terms of comfort.
But what about crowds? And what is there to do in the winter? Do you need to worry about rain?
I’ve visited the United Arab Emirates during all twelve months of the year, and I’m going to share with you what to expect when you go. I’ll cover the pros and cons of visiting Dubai in winter, as well as the best winter activities in Dubai and what clothes to pack.
By the end of this article, you will know exactly how to plan for winter in Dubai! Let’s dive right in.
When Is Winter in Dubai?
Winter in Dubai is considered to be the months of December, January, and February.
During these three months, the temperatures are significantly cooler, especially compared to the summer months. The days are shorter, and it can be a great time for outdoor activities like camping, hiking and exploring.
In fact, from November through the month of March – late fall and early spring, respectively – the temperatures are typically very comfortable.
Though the temperatures are better, there are definitely some pros and cons to consider before booking your trip!
Pros of spending winter in Dubai:
- The Weather. Winter is the perfect time for outdoor adventures in Dubai. During the winter in Dubai, you can explore outside to your heart’s content! Walk the souks, go on a safari, hang out on the beach, and check out the winter markets. Additionally, places like the Dubai Miracle Garden that close in the summer are wide open in the winter months. And these are just a few of the activities you can experience!
- Seasonal Events Several notable seasonal events take place in Dubai in the winter: Dubai Shopping Festival is a popular annual event that features discounts of up to 90% all over the city. There’s also the Taste of Dubai, which showcases three days of culinary delights. A complete list of Dubai’s winter season events can be found below. Suffice it to say, there is a lot to see and do!
- New Years Eve. It will probably come as no surprise that Dubai’s New Years Eve celebrations are larger than life. The fireworks are unbelievable, the parties are out of this world, and just about everything you attend will be taken to a whole other level. No expense is spared to bring in the new year.
Cons of spending winter in Dubai:
- Higher Prices. The main drawback of traveling to Dubai in the winter is that prices will be higher. These months are considered the peak season in Dubai, for all of the reasons listed above. Therefore, you should expect hotels and flights to be pretty pricey. (I always get the best hotel prices here!)
- Bigger Crowds. Due to the pleasant weather and festive events, the crowds will be noticeable. Without a doubt, Dubai feels alive and vibrant in the winter! But, if you hate crowds, this will likely bother you.
- Possible Rain. Though it only rains an average of 14 days per year in Dubai, these rainy days are likely to happen in winter. So while I wouldn’t spend time worrying about rain in Dubai, I would recommend preparing for it in terms of planning a few indoor activities and in terms of what you pack. More on both of those below.
- Heavier Clothing. Truth be told, my summer wardrobe for Dubai does not vary too much from the wardrobe I pack for winter in Dubai. I still pack loose and comfortable layers. However, the winter layers do tend to be thicker and heavier, which takes up just a bit more space in my suitcase. Check out my Dubai packing list here.
- Shorter Daylight hours. Just like back in the USA, winter in Dubai means shorter daylight hours. While not a huge deal, this does cut down on daylight exploration hours and your timeframe for hiking and adventuring.
Pro Tip: The best place for outdoor adventure in the UAE is in Ras Al Khaimah, without a doubt! Mountain hiking, ziplining, and much more can all be found here.
Dubai Winter Weather
The winter months in Dubai are characterized by almost perfect weather. If you are coming from a snowy country, you will almost certainly appreciate the sun and warmth!
Weather is an important aspect in planning your vacation, and Dubai experiences mild winters. In fact, the winter in Dubai is still oftentimes warmer than the summer in other countries!
To be clear, “cold” is not a word I would typically use to describe winter in Dubai. Perhaps chilly at night is more accurate!
From December to the end of February, the average daytime temperature in Dubai ranges from 68-77ºF (20-25ºC), while during the night it drops to around 59-64ºF (15-18ºC). The weather during this period is more than favorable, I would say!
Let’s break things down further, and look specifically at Dubai’s weather in December, January, and February. Or, check your exact dates’ forecast here.
Dubai in December
December has an average temperature of around 70°F (21°C). Daily temperatures reach up to 79°F (26°C), with night lows of 61°F (16°C).
There are about 8 hours of sunshine and just four days with rainfall. The seawater temperature is ideal for swimming, averaging at 72°F (23°C).
Dubai in January
January in Dubai is a bit colder than December. The average temperature is 66°F (19°C). Daily highs reach 73°F (23°C) and the nightly lows drop to 52°F (14°C).
There are 8 hours of sunshine and 6 rainy days. The seawater temperature drops slightly to 70°F (21°C).
Dubai in February
In February, expect similar averages to January. The temperatures slightly rise compared to January, with average temperatures of 68°F (20°C), daily highs of 75°F (24°C), and night lows of 59°F (15°C).
There are 8 hours of sunshine, only four rainy days, and a seawater temperature of 70°F (21°C).
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Winter in Dubai Quick Facts
- The average daytime and nighttime temperature in Dubai during the winter is 77°F and 59°F, respectively.
- The average winter rainfall reaches its peak in February at 1.38 inches.
- The wind speed technically peaks after winter, in March, at 9.2 miles per hour.
- The average sea temperature in winter is 70°F.
- The average daylight time in Dubai during winter is approximately 11 hours.
- The winter season in Dubai ranges from December to February.
Dubai Winter Clothes: What To Pack?
Believe it or not, my wardrobe doesn’t change too drastically when visiting Dubai in winter vs. Dubai in summer. And that’s not because the temperatures are the same!
It’s because Dubai is an Islamic country, so females should dress modestly and stay fairly covered no matter the month.
However, in the winter months, my clothing may get thicker and have a few more layering options. Let’s get into the specifics below.
1. Sweaters and Kimonos
In Dubai’s winter, layering will be your best friend.
One thing I wear in every single Middle Eastern country I visit is a flowy kimono. It is my most essential clothing item because it automatically makes an outfit modest. And in the winter, it will add a bit more warmth.
A Full Length Kimono
I highly recommend packing a full length kimono that you can throw on over any pant or legging.
I love long kimonos, since they cover your hips and waist in loose fabric. This is ideal in Muslim countries like the UAE.. Get yours here!
A Casual Kimono
If you prefer a shorter kimono look, this kimono, is a great option! It has loose, opaque fabric that still keeps you covered.
Bonus, you can also use this kimono as a bathing suit cover up if you plan to hit the beach or hotel pool. Get yours here!
A Comfy Cardigan
A long loose cardigan is great for the winter in Dubai! It adds just enough fabric and warmth to beat the evening chill.
This one also covers your hips and waist, perfect for Dubai. Get yours here!
2. Long Pants
You will definitely want a couple of pairs of long pants for Dubai’s winter, as well.
I recommend packing three pairs of pants – one for the plane ride, to be washed and reused, and two fresh pairs for arrival. This of course can be modified depending on the length of your trip.
The perfect trifecta, in my opinion, consists of: comfy sweats, fitted leggings, and flowy pants.
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Comfy Sweats
Plan to wear comfy sweats on your flight, particularly if you have a more than 15 hour trek like I typically do.
It can get very cold up in the sky, and sweats keep you warm and comfortable. Get yours here.
Fitted Leggings
The second pair pants that I would add is a pair of thick black leggings. These leggings are soft yet sturdy, with a nice high waistband and opaque fabric.
Be sure to pair them with a long and loose top, like your kimono or cardigan. Get yours here!
Loose Palazzo Pants
The third and last pair of pants I recommend are long and flowy palazzo pants. These are great for staying comfortable and covered.
You can choose from bold and flashy colors to muted tones. Get yours here!
3. Long Maxi Skirt
Another good item to pack for winter in Dubai is a long flowy maxi skirt. The idea here is to balance comfort and modesty. And, the floor length fabric will block any winter winds.
Flowy Maxi Skirt
Maxi skirts like this one are perfect for exploring mosques and museums in Dubai, or for walking around at the outdoor festivals.
It’s a perfect option for winter. Get yours here.
4. Loose Short Sleeve T-Shirts
I always add a couple of casual short sleeve shirts to my Dubai winter packing list.
Cute Colorblocks
A simple patterned t-shirt like this one is an easy option. Both casual and comfortable, this shirt adds a little more pizzazz to your outfit than a plain shirt.
It is nice and loose but something that you could wear back home, too. Get yours here!
Simple Basics
Alternately, I always pack at least one basic t-shirt like this to wear under my kimono or with printed pants.
The solid color is a nice, versatile option. Get yours here!
5. Long Sleeve Options
Don’t forget to throw in at least one long sleeve shirt or blouse too. You may want to be slightly dressier than a t-shirt for certain dinners and festivals so something like the one below is idea.
A Lightweight Blouse
A loose long sleeve blouse is great for nights on the go. The longer sleeves are also ideal for air-conditioned spaces.
Something like this si also great for winter events and festivals too!. Get yours here!
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6. Several Scarves and Shawls
Scarves are a true staple in my wardrobe, particularly in the Middle East. A good scarf can add warmth, or modesty, or a pop of color to any outfit.
A Sheer Scarf
I love these sheer lightweight scarves for the Middle East, as they are breathable and comfortable. I always have one on hand for visiting mosques.
I personally own this exact scarf in several different colors and love it! Get yours here.
A Heavier Scarf
However, when visiting Dubai in the winter months, you should also add a heavier scarf to your suitcase.
Nights can get chilly, and this one comes in several different colors. Get yours here!
7. A Bathing Suit
The Persian Gulf borders much of Dubai, and most hotels have swimming pools. You can easily have a swim in either place. So, a bathing suit is a must.
A Cute One Piece
In hotel swimming pools and even public beaches, bikinis are fairly common. But you may be more comfortable in a one-piece bathing suit.
This is the best way to cut down on unwanted stares, if you care about that. Get yours here!
8. Flip Flops and Sandals
Here are my top sandal suggestions and exactly why you might need each one in Dubai.
Flip Flops
I always have a pair of flip flops on hand for the flights, the pool, or the beach.
If your accommodation has a shared bathroom, you may also want these for the shower, too. Get yours here!
Strappy Flats
I love my comfortable strappy sandals because they can be both casual or dressy. You can pair them with a t-shirt and leggings or with a skirt and blouse.
Love versatility?! Get yours here.
9. Closed Toe Shoes
if you plan to take part in the shopping festival, you may want something stylish. If you plan to hike, rugged is the name of the game.
Ankle Booties
These ankle boots are very cute! Perfect for the fashionable types.
If these are more your speed, you will fit right into the markets and shopping festivals.. Get yours here!
Rugged Hiking Sandals
If you do plan to hike, do yourself a favor and grab these rugged trekking sandals. I absolutely love these shoes!
They have so far crossed six continents with me, and I have never looked back. Get yours here!
10. Sun Protective Wear
In Dubai, the sun shines bright most days of the year. That is still true in the winter.
A Wide Brim Fedora
I have this exact hat and it is incredibly cute and stylish. I pack it primarily for trips that don’t involve beaches or sand.
It is super sturdy and is a fax wool type of texture, s it’s great for winter, too! Get your here.
Foldable Panama Hat
I also own this hat and it is my go-to hat for any trip. It protects your eyes and face from the harsh sun and is okay for sand and water settings.
It is also size adjustable so you can find your perfect fit. Get yours here!
Stylish Sunglasses
If you don’t already have your own go-to sunglasses, you might, consider these cute pairs.
I love sunglasses that have plastic rims like this. Personally, I find them much more comfortable than the aviator style. Get yours here!
Winter Clothing in Dubai: Quick Tips
- Winter in Dubai is all about layers and modestly. Plan to dress in light, comfortable clothing and bring a sweater and heavy shawl to wear in the evenings
- Thick maxi skirts are a great choice if you want to mix style and comfort. The length is ideal in terms of Dubai’s dress code and can also keep you warmer by blocking the wind.
- Palazzo pants are a great option in both winter and summer in Dubai.
- You still should pack a wide brim hat and sunglasses, even for winter in Dubai. While much cooler than the summer months, the sun still shines bright.
Dubai Winter Festivals and Activities
The best part about visiting Dubai in winter over any other season is all of the winter festivals and activities!
The city comes alive with holiday themed and winter themed sights. It is a fun experience to say the least.
Here are the best Dubai winter festivals and events that come around each year.
1. Global Village
Global Village is an annual winter event that is essentially a giant world fair.
Celebrate over 70 countries and cultures around the world through their tasty food, lively dance dance performances, and more.
At Global Village, diversity and creativity is showcased and celebrated. It features amazing artists, creators, and performers from around the world.
The season for this extravaganza typically runs between October and April. Check the dates and get more info here.
BOOK A COMBO GLOBAL VILLAGE AND MIRACLE GARDEN TOUR HERE!
2. Dubai Garden Glow
Dubai Garden Glow is a spectacular, larger than life nighttime display in Zabeel Park, near the Dubai Frame.
From mid-October to early May, Zabeel Park comes alive with bright lights and activities. Visit five attractions in one: a Dinosaur Park, an Ice Sculpture Park, a Glow Park, a Magic Park and an Art Park.
Basically, Dubai Garden glow has something sure to impress everyone. It is fun for kids and adults alike, but those traveling with kids should especially consider a visit.
3. Dubai Winter City at Expo City
Christmas is not a holiday you would expect to be celebrated in Dubai. The UAE is a country guided by Islam, after all.
But, it is also a city of expats and grand celebrations. Because of that, Dubai Winter City at Expo City was born.
Located in the same dome-like park where Expo 2020 was help, this event will transport you from the sandy desert to the snowy North Pole in a heartbeat.
The “city” is transformed into an enchanting winter wonderland from the end of November to early January. Expect cozy-looking cabins, bustling Christmas markets, plentiful Christmas trees, a letter-to-Santa station, and much more.
Personally, I am glad they are reusing this large venue for other events after Expo 2020 ended.
The Winter City is a worthwhile stop if you do visit Dubai in winter! Consider it the perfect place to get your Christmas shopping finished.
4. The Walk at JBR Beach
The Jumeirah Beach Residence Walk spans approximately 1.1 miles of outdoor shopping. It features a variety of shops, department stores, boutiques, and restaurants throughout the year.
What makes it special in the wintertime is how t transforms into one of Dubai’s best winter wonderlands!
Christmas trees, colored lights, games, and more positively come alive on The Walk. You can even see Santa Claus himself here.
The festivities typically take place in December only and it is so worth visiting! Go at night to see the lights and grab some dinner.
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5. Ripe Market
I first discovered Dubai’s Ripe Market a few years ago by accident – and I have never looked back!
The Ripe Market is Dubai’s premier farmers market. This is the place to be for from fresh produce in the fall and winter months.
They typically gather on the grounds next to Dubai Police Academy, in Umm Suqeim on Saturdays and Sundays beginning at 9am.
Anytime I visit Dubai in the fall and winter months I have to visit the Ripe Market.
6. Dubai Shopping Festival
The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is one of the most popular events in Dubai in the winter. It takes place every year in January and February, and it’s a popular festival for locals and visitors alike.
The DSF offers loads of shopping and entertainment specials, featuring deep discounts that you won’t get any other time of year. You’ll also find tons of different activities like fashion shows, concerts, and fireworks displays.
The Dubai Shopping Festival runs each year from January to February.
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7. The Dubai Marathon
The Dubai Marathon is a popular event in Dubai for the running crowd. It takes place every year in December or January, which is the best month weather-wise for such a strenuous event to occur.
The marathon provides a great opportunity to see some of the city’s most beautiful landmarks, both if you are a contestant or just cheering somebody on.
The marathon course runs through downtown Dubai and past the famous Burj Khalifa, which of course is a can’t miss sight.
8. Taste of Dubai
Foodies, listen up! Taste of Dubai is for you!
This event is the ultimate celebration of food and drink in Dubai. It takes place every year in February and seems to grow every year.
Taste of Dubai brought together over 21,000 foodies, locals, and families in just three days to enjoy the region’s best chefs and flavors. Enjoy the interactive masterclasses, live entertainment, and more during Taste of Dubai!
9. Dubai’s New Year’s Eve
Downtown Dubai is positively bustling on New Year’s Eve! Dubai is one of the best known, biggest-production New Year’s Eve destinations you could attend.
The celebration takes place in downtown Dubai every winter, and – no surprise – it features a massive fireworks display.
The fireworks are timed to music, similar to the famous Dubai Fountain, and they’re one of the most impressive sights in the city. Dare I say the world?
f you’re in Dubai in the winter, specifically on December 31, do not miss the New Year’s Eve celebration!
10. Dubai International Film Festival
Every winter, in December and January, Dubai puts on the world-class Dubai International Film Festival. It features films from all over the world, and it’s a great opportunity to see some of the latest and greatest (and lesser-known) movies.
There are also fun workshops to take part in and discussion panels where you can listen in and learn more about the film industry.
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Year Round Activities to Enjoy in Dubai’s Winter
While most of these activities can be visited throughout the year in various seasons in Dubai, they are great options for winter, specifically.
1. Visit The Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, standing at a height of 2,722 feet. It houses multiple dining and entertainment venues, and is one of the best things to do in Dubai.
The observation decks offer breathtakingly high vantage points to look out over Dubai, providing an unforgettable view of the cityscape.
Plan to visit the Burj Khalifa on a winter evening in Dubai to see the cities enchanting lights from a panoramic viewpoint.
Pro Tip: Book your tickets in advance so you can skip the lines (and the waiting!) Go straight up to your viewpoint and enjoy the views, wasting no time. Yes, this attraction can get very busy. PRE BOOK YOUR BURJ KHALIFA TICKETS HERE!
2. Go on a Desert Safari
The incredible Arabian Desert safari and wild orange dunes are one of the best things to do in Dubai year round – but even more so on a Dubai winter trip.
Why? The temperatures are more forgiving and you cam climb up dunes, sandboard down, and trek on the sand just a bit easier than any other time.
Experience a desert sunset, followed by a barbecue dinner and live music and dancing. Henna tattoos, falconry demonstrations, and camel rides are also typically available.
BOOK YOUR DUBAI DESERT SAFARI HERE!
3. Dubai Miracle Garden
The Dubai Miracle Garden is the largest flower garden in the world, and it sits in the middle of this desert city. It’s known for its unique design and the millions of flowers it displays in vibrant colors.
From roses to sunflowers to petunias, this garden is a true oasis-like paradise. Check out the animatronic displays and beautiful sculptures surrounded by fresh blooms.
The theme changes yearly, so if you come back to Dubai you can find something new here. Note that the Dubai Miracle Garden is a great place to visit during winter in Dubai. In fact it closes during the summer months due to the extreme heat.
BOOK COMBO DUBAI MIRACLE GARDEN AND GLOBAL WILLAGE TICKETS HERE!
4. Take a Dhow Cruise
A cruise down Dubai Creek on a traditional dhow boat offers a nice traditional experience in Dubai.
However, you are in Dubai, so do expect a bit of flair!
Check out the illuminated skyline as you sail, passing under the iconic Dubai bridges, and seeing the city lit up at night. As you can imagine, it is even more impressive in the winter, when Dubai is lit up by Christmas lights and decorations!
You’ll get an onboard dinner and a show, which adds to the festivities.
BOOK YOUR DHOW SUNSET CRUISE HERE!
5. Visit the Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame is a very popular tourist attraction, serving as a massive picture frame looking out over Dubai. It measures approximately 492 feet tall and 305 feet wide.
The observation deck inside the Frame provides impressive views of both old and new Dubai from either side. During winter, a visit to the Dubai Frame is highly recommended for visitors to the city.
Firstly, the indoor attraction will keep you warm and dry. Second, your views will include the festively decorated surrounding city.
At the top of the frame, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Dubai, while the ground floor houses a museum. This is in Zabeel Park, where the Dubai Garden Glow also takes place each winter.
BOOK YOUR DUBAI FRAME TICKETS HERE!
6. Enjoy Hatta in the winter
If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure during your Dubai winter trip, head to Hatta for a day of rugged hiking, water activities, and exploration.
The Hatta Mountains are a beautiful place to spend a day outdoors, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Visitors can hike the trails, go camping in the wild, or visit the Dam for kayaking and horseback riding.
Hatta is a beautiful but often overlooked place to visit in Dubai. It is a great way to get out and explore the amazing natural scenery of the UAE.
Does It Snow in Dubai?
While snow is extremely rare in this region of the world, snow has in fact touched down on UAE’s highest mountain peak, Jebel Jais.
Technically these snowfalls in Dubai take place in the emirate and not the city itself. It’s a very rare phenomenon, but snow has fallen in Dubai.
If you are up for visiting some manmade snow attractions, you can actually find that in Dubai, too!
Ski Dubai offers visitors a chance to take part in a variety of snowy activities. Feel free to ski, snowboard, meet penguins, ride a zip line or take a chairlift ride. And much much more.
Ski Dubai is a regular winter wonderland in Dubai!
BOOK YOUR SKI DUBAI TICKETS HERE!
Additionally, I have seen fake snow featured at The Walk at JBR as well, though it was more of a kids corner attraction than anything else.
Does It Rain in Dubai in Winter?
Yes, it does sometimes rain in Dubai in the winter. Even though it only rains an average of 14 days per year in Dubai, those rainy days typically occur in winter.
January is considered the wettest month in Dubai, but even then it only sees and average of six rainy days each year.
Furthermore, if it rains during Dubai’s winter months, the rain will usually be brief but intense showers. These rains do not tend to impact local life in any way.
What to do in Dubai when it rains
On the rare days that it does rain in Dubai, there is plenty to enjoy indoors! Here are just a few suggestions to fill a rainy day in Dubai.
Dubai Frame – Rainy days or not, you can still enjoy this bird’s eye view attraction. Observe both New and Old Dubai from this awesome attraction. BOOK YOUR TICKETS HERE!
The Dubai Mall – This is always a good option, in winter rain or summer heat. There’s so much to do in the Dubai Mall. Hit the incredible Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
Go ice skating on their Olympic-sized rink. Or, simply shop till you drop.
The Green Planet Dubai – This fun attraction features an incredible indoor rainforest in the heart of Dubai. Set inside an unassuming building, this tropical forest features over 3,000 plants and animals as well as the world’s largest indoor man-made and life-sustaining tree. Sound wild? BOOK YOUR TICKETS HERE!
Why Visit Dubai in the Winter?
While there are lots of reasons to visit Dubai in the winter, here are some of the best ones. The weather is great, the festivals and events are unparalleled, and the city is abuzz with activity.
1. The Great Weather
Especially if you are traveling from Europe or the USA, the weather in Dubai will be much nicer than where you are coming from, on average.
Dubai is a great destination all year round, in my opinion. But during winter, visitors can enjoy sightseeing and outdoor activities much more comfortably due to the cooler weather.
2. The Winter Festivities
There are also a number of festivities and attractions that are only available in the winter in Dubai. Only in winter can you check out Winter City at Exo City, and the Dubai Shopping Festival, The Walk at JBR, and the famous Dubai New Years Eve fireworks.
3. The City Comes Alive
For better or for worse, Dubai is positively bursting with activity in the winter. Crowds f tourists flock to the city to enjoy the weather and events.
It creates a lively buzz in the air and an excitement around the city that you just don’t find in other seasons.
Dubai Winter Season Tips
- Unlike most winter destinations it is still important to carry wide brim hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen in Dubai.
- It’s not a bad idea to carry a small travel umbrella in Dubai during winter, too.
- Check out the winter packing list above for my best clothing tips.
- Be sure to book your tickets to attractions in advance. Since it is the busiest season, some things will sell out.
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Winter in Dubai FAQs
Still have questions about visiting Dubai in the winter? Hopefully these popular FAQs will clear them up!
What is the coldest month in Dubai?
January is the coldest month in Dubai, with an average temperature between 66-73º F. January in Dubai is a bit colder than December and a bit warmer than February.
Does Dubai get cold in Winter?
It never truly gets cold in Dubai, but winter can bring in a certain chill. During the winter, temperatures decrease considerably both in the daytime and in the night. Evenings may require a comfy sweater or heavy shawl.
Can you swim in Dubai in December?
With an average temperature of 70-79° F during the day, December is a great month to go swimming in Dubai. It is one of the best months to visit the beach and to use your hotel pool.
What is the best activity to do in Dubai’s winter?
My must-do go to activity for any time of year is easily a Desert Safari . Additionally, seasonal Christmas and New Years events are always a great option.
Is December a good time to visit Dubai?
December is a great time to visit Dubai. The best weather tends to fall from November to April each year. Dubai in winter allows for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and enjoying the winter festivals.
What is the best month to visit Dubai?
That depends on what you want to see and do. If you want to enjoy winter festivities, visit in December. For new years parties and celebrations, visit Dubai in January. And for a quieter but still comfortable visit, consider February.
Are shops and restaurants open in Dubai during Winter?
Yes, shops and restaurants are open in Dubai in winter. Actually, more events and attractions are open n Dubai’s winter than in summer in Dubai. Winter is an excellent time to visit Dubai.
Can you go to the beach in Dubai’s winter?
Yes, winter is a great time to visit the beach in Dubai. It can be slightly chilly early and late in the day, but it is very worth visiting and seeing the beach in the summer.
Is it foggy in Dubai in winter?
There can be fog in Dubai during winter months. During this period, there is a notable decrease in temperature, particularly at night, coupled with an increase in humidity. Consequently, these conditions often result in the formation of fog during the early morning hours.
Is it windy in Dubai in winter?
December through February may see some wind in Dubai. However, the windiest month is in March, at the beginning of Dubai’s spring season.
Is Dubai expensive to visit in winter?
Yes, winter is typically the most expensive season to visit Dubai. Due to the many winter festivals and events, as well as the pleasant weather, winter is the tourist high season. Expect higher prices on hotels, flights, and activities.
Should I take winter clothes to Dubai?
No, you do not need to take true winter clothes to Dubai in December, January, or February. Instead, plan for Dubai’s winter the way you would plan for another region in Autumn. This means comfy sweaters and thick shawls, but no true winter coats.
How safe is Dubai?
Dubai is a very safe city. It consistently ranks as one of the safest in the world. Check out specific stats in my Is Dubai Safe for Solo Female Travel post.
What can I see in Dubai during winter?
Winter in Dubai brings with it seasonal events like the New Years fireworks show, the Dubai Shopping Festival, Winter City at Expo City, and much more. Check them out above.
What are the best things to do with kids in Dubai in the winter?
Kids will enjoy Green Planet Dubai, or Winter City, or The Walk at JBR in the winter. These events all have kid focused areas and highlights.
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Winter in Dubai: Final Thoughts
Have I convinced you that visiting Dubai in the winter is a great idea?
Despite the crowds and prices, there is just something magical about the city in the winter. Dubai comes alive in the cooler months, with events and activities designed to keep you entertained all winter long.
From skiing on the world’s largest indoor ski slope to shopping at festive holiday markets, there are plenty of experiences to see when you visit Dubai in the winter.
Need More Planning Resources for the UAE? Check These Out!
Dubai Travel:
- Is It Safe to Visit Dubai as a Solo Female?
- What to Wear in Dubai – Women’s Packing List
- 10 Things NOT to Do in Dubai
- Is Dubai Worth Visiting?
- Visiting the Wings of Mexico in Dubai
- Reasons to Visit Dubai
- The Golden Frame in Dubai
- Visiting the Dubai Miracle Garden
- Visiting Dubai in Winter Guide
- Doha vs. Dubai: Which Is Better?
- Can You Buy Alcohol in Dubai? Laws and Rules
- Is Dubai a Desert?
Abu Dhabi Travel:
- 10 Tips for Visiting Abu Dhabi as a Woman
- A Liwa Desert Safari – What to Know Before You Go
- 10 Things to Know Before Visiting the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque
- Abu Dhabi Vs. Dubai – Which is Better?
Ras Al Khaimah & Sharjah Travel:
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