Dubai in summer – is it worth visiting in June, July and August?

The weather in Dubai from June to August: How do the high temperatures affect your trip?

If you’re wondering whether it’s worth visiting Dubai in the summer, you first need to understand the climate. During this period, daytime temperatures regularly exceed 40–45°C in the shade. In July and August, the average air temperature and high humidity can take their toll, and the sun shines with exceptional intensity. Such conditions make long walks in the open air during the day practically impossible, and many people may tire quickly.

It is worth noting that the weather in Dubai can be unpredictable – the heat is intensified by the humid air flowing in from the Gulf, meaning that the dry desert air gives way to muggy conditions. To minimise the negative effects of the heat, there are a few rules to bear in mind. It is essential to stay properly hydrated and to drink cooling beverages regularly, as these effectively quench your thirst and reduce the risk of dehydration. When outdoors, you’ll need breathable clothing, protective headwear and sun cream with a high UV protection factor.

The low season: why is it worth visiting luxury hotels in the Emirates?

Although summer brings extreme weather, for savvy travellers it is the perfect time for a budget-friendly trip. Months such as July and August are officially the low season. For this reason, the United Arab Emirates tempt visitors with huge discounts. A trip at this time allows you to experience incredible luxury at a price that would be completely out of reach in winter.

Large, renowned resorts slash their room rates, offering guests the highest level of comfort. A five-star hotel with a private, heated swimming pool or direct access to the beach can be booked for a fraction of the standard price. When you book, hotels often throw in attractive packages: free meals for children, discounts at exclusive restaurants or free entry to popular theme parks. This makes it an exceptionally good time for a holiday for many budget-conscious travellers.

What to do whilst you’re there? Explore the legendary shopping centres and the Ski Dubai ski slope

Any fear that you’ll spend your entire holiday bored in your hotel room is completely unfounded. Dubai is a city designed to be bustling with life all year round. The key to enjoying your stay is spending most of your time in air-conditioned spaces, where a powerful air-conditioning system guarantees complete thermal comfort.

Where’s the best place to seek shelter from the sun and enjoy your free time?

• Shopping centres: Huge, modern shopping centres offer much more than just shops. The iconic Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates provide hundreds of indoor attractions.
• Ski Dubai: Inside the Mall of the Emirates lies the famous, indoor ski slope, Ski Dubai. It’s an incredible, perfect place where you can escape the heat and feel a real chill at sub-zero temperatures. For those travelling with their families, I highly recommend a run on skis or a snowboard in the middle of the Arabian summer!
• Museums and culture: It’s well worth planning a visit to some of the modern attractions. Time spent in interactive museums or inside the giant aquarium at the Dubai Mall will provide incredible entertainment.

Thanks to such a rich range of facilities, there’s no risk of summer boredom, and all these indoor attractions will easily satisfy even the most demanding visitors.

How to plan sightseeing and swimming in the sea under the Arabian sun?

Although the entire Arabian Emirates are bathed in sunshine, with the right daily schedule you can easily combine outdoor relaxation with protection from the scorching heat. First and foremost, you should completely avoid being out in the open in the middle of the day. It is best to plan all outdoor activities and short walks for first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon, just before or after sunset.

When it comes to beaches and swimming in the sea, bear in mind that the water in the Persian Gulf heats up to over 30°C in summer and offers no relief. Therefore, a much better option is to spend time by the hotel swimming pool, where the water temperature is artificially cooled to a pleasant 24–26°C. In the evenings, however, the city takes on a whole new glow. The heat eases off slightly, and tourists can head to the air-conditioned outdoor areas of restaurants, watch the evening fountain shows or enjoy an exclusive drink at the hotel bar (it’s worth remembering that drinking alcohol in public places is prohibited and permitted only in licensed premises).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Is it worth visiting Dubai in the summer?
  Yes, provided you’re looking to relax in luxury and enjoy indoor attractions. If your main aim is to actively explore historical sites or walk around the city during the day, summer isn’t the best time to visit.
   
• How hot does it get in June, July and August?
  During the day, temperatures regularly exceed 40°C, and in August they can approach 45–50°C. Furthermore, high humidity makes the heat feel even more intense. The average night-time temperature rarely drops below 30°C.
   
• Are hotels much cheaper during the summer holidays?
  Definitely! Due to the lower number of tourists, prices in luxury hotels are up to half as much as in winter. I’d definitely recommend keeping an eye out for summer promotions and discount packages.
   
• Where can you find some relief from the sun?
  The perfect places to escape the heat are large shopping centres (such as the Dubai Mall or the Mall of the Emirates), air-conditioned museums and the Ski Dubai winter theme park.
   
• How can you stay comfortable and safe in the heat?
  Limit your time in direct sunlight. Wear light, breathable clothing, remember to use high-factor sun cream and wear a hat, and above all, make sure you stay well hydrated. As safety is a priority, if you start to feel unwell, head straight to an air-conditioned room.
   
• Is the sea water suitable for swimming?
  The sea water is very warm and does not cool you down. The hotel swimming pool, with its controlled water temperature, offers better and more pleasant conditions.
   
• What are evenings like in the city?
  After sunset, the temperature becomes slightly more bearable. Social life moves to the air-conditioned terraces of restaurants, and a rich programme of evening shows ensures you’ll have a lovely time.

Summary

Dubai in summer is a destination full of contrasts which, if planned properly, will provide incredible memories. Although the high temperatures and humidity mean you’ll spend most of your time indoors, modern architectural solutions, powerful air-conditioning and a huge number of indoor attractions – such as the Ski Dubai ski slope – will ensure your holiday is both enjoyable and safe. If you dream of discovering a world of luxury at a great price, June, July and August will be spot on!