Summer in Dubai is HOT! Learn everything there is to know about the city during this season, how to deal with the heat, and all the fun activities you can enjoy despite the weather!
Dubai is a city where you’ll rarely go cold, even in the winter evenings. What you may suffer a bit, though, is the intense heat because of its desert climate. But when summer comes around, the hot winds, high humidity, and incredibly hot weather can be unbearable for some.
What’s great about this time is that it’s the off-season in Dubai for tourism, so you’ll find better deals and cheaper accommodation. There are also plenty of things to do in Dubai no matter the heat – a mix of indoor activities and waterparks!
I’ve survived two summers in Dubai so far – and it wasn’t as bad as you might think. In fact, I had a lot of fun! Read on to find out how you can make the most of your summer in Dubai.
Table of Contents
AN INTRODUCTION TO SUMMER IN DUBAI
Summer Temperatures in Dubai
In Dubai, the summer temperature typically ranges between 104°F (40°C) and 113°F (45°C) although it can get higher. In fact, the highest temperature in Dubai is a scorching-hot one of 122°F (50°C)!
The sea also gets pretty warm, reaching 99°F (37°C) during the Dubai summer months, and the air humidity can be around 90%, adding to the sensation of heat.
What is the hottest month in Dubai?
The hottest weather in Dubai can be experienced in August, with an average maximum temperature of 115°F (46°C). At night, it hardly ever gets lower than 86°F (30°C).
Can you Go Out in the Summer in Dubai?
Going out to explore Dubai in June, July, and August can be anything but tempting, but should you need to leave your air-conditioned hotel room during the day, there are things you can do to deal with the high temperatures.
▶️ First and foremost, stay hydrated. Drinking enough water is vital to help you survive Dubai in the summer and prevent ugly consequences from the heat, from getting dehydrated to having a heat stroke. Also try to avoid having coffee, alcohol, or sugary drinks that will only make you more thirsty.
▶️ You should also take sunglasses and a hat with you to protect you from the sun, and it’s advisable to wear long-sleeved, loose clothes that are light and shield your skin, ideally linen or cotton.
▶️ Try to go out very early in the morning or in the evening, so you avoid Dubai’s maximum temperature, and if you’re going out for lunch don’t indulge in big meals, or else all that energy that’s fighting to regulate your body’s temperature will be redirected toward digestion. It’s unlikely you’ll have much of an appetite in Dubai summer weather, though!
▶️ While scheduling lots of activities in your day may sound like the right thing to do (you’re on vacation after all), make sure to rest and take a break when your body says so.
▶️ Finally, enjoy all the indoor activities that Dubai offers, so you can have fun and stay cool at the same time.
THINGS TO DO IN DUBAI IN SUMMER
Check Out the Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is massive, and you could easily spend a whole day exploring it without getting bored (maybe a little tired of walking perhaps!)
This is not your regular mall, there are plenty of things to do at Dubai Mall! Here you’ll find dozens of restaurants and cafes, some of them offering great views of the fountain, hundreds of stores selling both local and world-renowned brands, attractions, activities, and lots of entertainment options (and even a waterfall!).
It’s one of the best places to visit in Dubai in summer because you’ll escape the heat and be entertained for a long time, whether you choose to watch a movie, get scared out of your wits at Hysteria, or enjoy some art.
Visit the Dubai Aquarium
Inside the Dubai Mall, probably the main attraction is the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Home to over 33 thousand animals, its houses an incredibly large collection of sharks, as well as rays, otters, penguins, and crocodiles.
The world’s largest suspended aquarium is a 10-million liter tank that you can enjoy from the underwater tunnel, or from within if you’re brave enough to swim with the sharks!
➤ You can buy your Ticket to the Aquarium, which allows you to enjoy a visit spending as long as you want to meet and photograph all the animals… and of course to admire the underwater tunnel! ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ If you also made up your mind about visiting the Burj Khalifa (and you should!), get the Aquarium and Burj Khalifa Combo Ticket to save on the entrance fees and get access to both attractions on the same day. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Go up the Burj Khalifa
Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building, and it offers astounding views of the city from its observation decks, located on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors.
You can spot several landmarks from up there and trace the Dubai skyline all the way to the Persian Gulf, marveling as well at Palm Jumeirah and the World Islands. There are interactive displays, digital telescopes, and plenty of information about the construction of this 828-meter building.
You can also have a drink or dine in the heights, with gorgeous views of Dubai below you.
➤ With the Burj Khalifa Entry Ticket you’ll have access to levels 124 and 125, where you can enjoy the 360-degree views and see everything in detail with the digital telescopes. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ Otherwise, you can choose the Burj Khalifa Tickets & Tour to skip the lines and reach the 148th floor, enjoying personalized attention at SKY lounge. You’ll also get to visit levels 124 and 125. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Be Mesmerized at La Perle
La Perle by Dragone is Dubai’s number one show, and one of the very best things to do in Dubai in summer (and a top activity in Dubai at night in any season!).
Not only will you be cool inside the theater, but you’ll enjoy a gravity-defying performance with aquatic acts, incredible high-tech and a stellar cast, designed by the very man who transformed the shows in Las Vegas.
You’ll be unable to tear your eyes away from the aqua stage, where the action occurs on, above, and in the water!
➤ Be sure you buy your tickets in advance, so you don’t risk them being sold out! You’ll get to choose your preferred seat area, access the VIP Lounge, and if selected, you can also enjoy some drinks and snacks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Hit the Slopes at Ski Dubai
The ultimate way to beat the summer weather in Dubai is with snow. Ski Dubai is the largest indoor ski park in the world, and while skiing is the primary sport to be enjoyed here, you can also head to the Snow Park to build snowmen, bobsled down the slopes, ride the Giant Ball or the Mountain Thriller, and have lots of fun in the cold.
This is one of those attractions that can be enjoyed whether it’s summer or winter in Dubai!
Don’t worry about being too cold, though, because you’ll get gloves, a hat, a jacket, and even snow boots to keep you warm.
➤ The Tickets for Ski Dubai are for experienced snowboarders or skiers that are ready to show off their talents. You can choose between full-day access or a couple of hours of fun. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ The Ski Dubai Snow Classic Pass offers unlimited rides in the snow park for a full day, so you can still enjoy the snow even if you don’t ski. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Have fun at IMG World of Adventure
IMG Worlds of Adventure is the world’s biggest indoor theme park, and one of the perfect places to visit in Dubai in Summer, especially if you have kids.
The park features 5 adventure zones to suit everyone from dinosaur lovers to Marvel fans and horror enthusiasts, and besides the thrilling rides you’ll get to enjoy live shows and characters.
You can also do a little shopping at the retail outlets or take a break for a meal at a restaurant.
➤ With the IMG Worlds of Adventure Tickets you’ll enjoy unlimited access to all the attractions, meet the characters, and check out all five zones! ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Visit the Museums in Dubai
Museums are the best places to visit in Dubai during summer, because you’ll be sheltered from the heat as you learn all about the rich history of the city, its situation before the oil boom, its art, and heritage, but also travel to the future with their latest incredible museum.
▶️ Etihad Museum – Visit the Etihad Museum to learn about the development of the country since its foundation in 1971 (in fact, it was signed on this very spot!)
There are plenty of interactive displays and photographs to take you through the timeline, and a garden with a cafe to enjoy afterward. ➥ GET YOUR ETIHAD MUSEUM TICKETS HERE
Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 8 PM
Entrance Fee: AED 25 (USD 7) for adults; free for children at the time of writing.
▶️ Museum of the Future – This is where you’ll discover how the world might look like in 2050, with incredible exhibitions and interactive displays that deal with all sorts of topics, from climate change to AI, bioengineering and outer space.
The building itself is futuristic and impressive! ➥ BOOK YOUR TICKETS HERE
Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 6 PM
Entrance Fee: AED 145 (USD 39.5)
▶️ Dubai Museum – Located in the city’s oldest building, the Al Fahidi Fort, this museum is a great way to learn about the pre-oil boom Dubai, and gain insights into the heritage and culture of the country. It’s the main museum in the city, and the perfect proof of how far it has come.
➤ You can book the Dubai Museum & City Tour to and get a very comprehensive tour around this area of the city that includes tickets to the museum and an abra ride across the Dubai Creek. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Opening Hours: Saturday to Thursday 8.30 AM to 8.30 PM. Friday & Saturday 2.30 PM to 8.30 PM.
Entrance Fee: AED 3 (less than a dollar) for adults, AED 1 for children.
➥ Looking for something different? Check out all the best museums in Dubai to visit this summer!
Have Brunch in Dubai
Brunch is a big deal in Dubai, and they even have great deals on evening brunches, so you can enjoy your cup of coffee and pancakes well past noon. It’s one of the best summer activities in Dubai for a fun night out, so find out some great options to try.
- Toro Toro offers unlimited South American brunch dishes and beverages every Saturday at 1 PM, for 3 hours straight.
- Atelier M is set on a rooftop with incredible views, and has a Friday’s Sky High Brunch that goes from 2 PM to 5 PM. Besides the dishes and desserts, you’ll enjoy live entertainment.
- Karma Kafé is the perfect place to try the evening brunch, held on Thursday and Friday nights. They serve Pan-Asian cuisine to be enjoyed with amazing views of the Burj Khalifa.
Get into the jungle at The Green Planet
This vertical tropical rainforest is home to incredible animals that include a wide variety of birds, reptiles, and sloths.
It’s an ideal activity to enjoy during Dubai summer time, and incredibly fun for children, as you can experience a bird or reptile encounter, snorkel with piranhas, meet the sloths and sugar gliders and even get to see the nocturnal animals when the night falls.
The Green Planet also offers immersive experiences, like getting caught in a tropical thunderstorm, and there’s a cafe where you can get refreshments after your animal encounters.
➤ The Green Planet Ticket grants you access to all levels of the attraction, so you meet the lovely creatures and explore the bio-dome at your own pace. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Go All the Way Up Sky Views Observatory
Sky Views Dubai is an observatory 656 feet (200 meters) above the city, featuring a massive glass floor from where you’ll enjoy the most impressive views of Dubai, literally at your feet.
Floor-to-ceiling windows surround the observatory area completely, but there’s more to this attraction than just snapping pictures of the view.
Visitors can slide from the 53rd floor on a transparent tunnel, never losing sight of the views, and if you’re up to the challenge you can trek the Eagle Walk, which encircles the outside of the building. You’ll be equipped with a safety harness and, hopefully, all your courage to experience one of the most thrilling ways in which you can enjoy the city’s landscape!
➤ The regular Sky Views Dubai Ticket includes admission to the observatory + one glide on the Sky Glass slide (you can pay for additional glides at the observatory for 25 AED each). ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ If you’re up for some extra adrenaline, book the Sky Views – Edge Walk Experience Ticket and brave new heights. This ticket also includes access to the observatory and one glide on the glass slide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Get Pictures at Dubai Frame
Dubai Frame is a cultural landmark that merges the old and new Dubai, serving as a bridge between the two. This 150-meter tall structure in the shape of a photo frame aims to indeed frame both areas of the city, and you can get incredible views from the glass bridge that connects the tower.
The main attraction, though, is the frame itself, so be sure to check the views on either side of it, and marvel at how much the city has changed in so little time.
➤ This Small-Group City Tour includes tickets to the Dubai Frame, as well as visits to the Blue Mosque, the traditional souks, Palm Jumeirah, and the Dubai Creek, among other places. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Explore Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Mosque is one of the only two mosques in the UAE which allow non-muslims to visit it, so take your chance! It’s a great place to head to during Dubai summer season, and you’ll be shown around its main areas as you learn about the culture and religion of the Emirates and their praying rituals.
The tour, which you can get on-site, includes a complimentary breakfast of Arabic coffee and dates, so you finish your visit on a high note before facing again the heat of the city.
BEST WATERPARKS IN DUBAI
We couldn’t write about summer in Dubai and not mention the incredible waterparks that you can find in the city, could we? In fact, visiting the waterparks is 100% one of the best things to do when it’s so incredibly hot outside.
Aquaventure Waterpark
This is the world’s largest waterpark with more than 100 thrilling rides and waterslides, many of them record-breaking ones, a children-friendly area for the little ones, and a private beach. It’s located in the iconic Palm Jumeirah and promises an exciting day full of activities.
➤You can get the Aquaventure Admission Ticket to access all the activities, including the private beach, for a full day. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤If you also want to visit the Lost Chambers Aquarium, you can get an Aquaventure Combo Ticket to visit both attractions on the same day. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Wild Wadi Waterpark
Located in Jumeirah, Wild Wadi Waterpark features over 30 rides and water-related attractions that include slides that end with a splash, surfing waves, the exhilarating Jumeirah Sceirah which flies you down 120 meters at 80km/h, and an incredibly long lazy river for the fainted-hearted. There’s also a children’s area with small slides and water games.
➤You can get the Wild Wadi Full-Day Entrance Ticket to enjoy full access to the waterpark’s attractions and have a memorable fun day. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Legoland Waterpark
One of the fabulous theme parks at Dubai Parks and Resorts, this waterpark is specifically designed for children and their families, and features tons of lego-related slides, rides, and attractions which include building your own Lego raft, getting soaked with the Joker Soaker, and going on a splash safari.
➤ With the Parks and Resorts: Two Park Pass you get access to Legoland Waterpark and another theme park of your choice, enjoying unlimited rides in both for a full day. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
OTHER FUN THINGS TO DO IN SUMMER IN DUBAI
Sunrise Desert Safari
The desert can be still visited and enjoyed in the summer…as long as you go at sunrise!
On a Dubai desert safari, you’ll get to marvel at the massive sand dunes, meet the wildlife, and learn about the Bedouins, the people from the desert, without suffering the scorching heat that would be unbearable on a regular trip to the desert during your summer vacation in Dubai.
➤ The Sunrise Desert Jeep Safari includes a picnic breakfast in the desert and encounters with the wildlife, as well as a visit to Al Qudra Lakes and wonderful views of the sunrise over the sand dunes. You can choose to join a group or have a private tour. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Walk around the Dubai Marina at Night
After sundown, being outside becomes more bearable, so you could go for a lovely stroll along the boardwalk at Dubai Marina, where you’ll encounter hundreds of stores, restaurants, and cafes with views of the creek and the illuminated Dubai skyline.
The Marina Walk’s highlight is likely the reflection of the city on the water, and you can also enjoy the sights from a rooftop bar in the neighborhood like Atelier M at Pier 7 or Siddharta Lounge by Buddha Bar.
Stroll Around Al Seef After Dark
When the sun goes down, another great destination is Al Seef, the old Dubai. This creekside location recreates the city of Dubai in its past, before becoming one of the most modern and developed ones in the world.
Here you’ll find high-end restaurants, shops, and amenities such as the Museum of Illusions, but all of them hiding inside old-looking buildings that will look fantastic on your Instagram feed.
There’s also a very nice promenade along the creek where you can take a stroll, watching the lights of the Deira district across the creek and the wonderful alleys of Al Seef also lit up. There are several eateries facing this glorious view, so you could have a drink, a little snack, or even dinner at one of the Al Seef restaurants – maybe it’s the right occasion to try traditional Emirati food!
Stop for Coffee at Forever Rose Cafe (2D Cafe)
Forever Rose is the first 2D cafe in Dubai. Featuring a very unique interior that resembles the white and black illustrations of a storybook, this cafe offers an impressive afternoon tea besides serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as an all-day dessert and coffee menu.
The intricate designs on the furniture and the walls are truly impressive, and they help intensify the color of the beautifully presented food and drinks, granting fabulous opportunities for insta-worthy pictures.
Dubai Chillout Ice Lounge
If the snow at Ski Dubai was not enough cold to deal with Dubai’s temperature in summer, then Dubai Chillout Ice Lounge is the answer.
This lounge is indeed made of ice, and you’ll need more than a jacket to keep you warm in the subzero temperatures! You’ll be welcomed with a cup of hot chocolate you didn’t know you’d be craving while in Dubai, and get to enjoy some snacks or cakes on ice tables.
There are plenty of mind-blowing ice sculptures as well, where you can pose for pictures, and lights with changing colors and patterns that will fascinate you.
➤ The Dubai Chillout Ice Lounge Ticket offers a 1-hour experience in the cold with a complimentary drink at the bar. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Marina Cruise at Night
From Dubai Marina, you can also take a cruise to enjoy spectacular views of the city from the water and indulge in a buffet dinner, nice music, and an open-air deck to take in the scenery that presents itself in front of you, as you slowly glide on the canal.
➤ This Marina Dinner Cruise serves an international and local buffet dinner, live music, and drinks on a large sightseeing cruise. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Dhow Cruise on Dubai Creek
A dhow is a traditional sailboat, originally used by fishermen or as trading vessels, and that today offers impressive and luxurious cruises along the Dubai Creek.
Taking a dhow cruise at night is one of the best things to do in Dubai during summer as you’ll get to enjoy being outdoors after the heatwave of the day, taste delicious Arabic food, and take in the astounding views of the lit up city while you sail on the creek listening to live music.
➤ The Dhow Dinner Cruise offers a 2-hour sail with a buffet dinner on board, live music and entertainment, and transfer from and to your hotel. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
IS IT WORTH VISITING DUBAI IN SUMMER?
If your plan is to explore the city, go to the beach and walk around, it’s probably not worth it, as the heat will prevent many of those activities.
If you’re ok staying indoors, though (and there is PLENTY to do indoors in Dubai!) it can be a great destination for much less. You can find pretty good deals in the summer, including 4 and 5-star hotels for about $50 a night!
WHAT TO WEAR IN DUBAI IN SUMMER
Regardless of the season, you should always dress modestly in Dubai. That said, you’ll also be more comfortable and fresh with loose clothing items that protect you from the sun than by exposing your skin with tank tops and shorts.
Long skirts or dresses, loose pants, and blouses or t-shirts are ideal, especially if they’re linen or cotton and in neutral colors – that is what I usually wear. However, you’re also totally fine if you wear (not too short) shorts or T-shirts!
Remember that in some more conservative places such as mosques you won’t be able to enter if you’re showing your knees or shoulders, so make sure you cover those if you’re visiting some religious sites.
WHERE TO STAY IN DUBAI IN THE SUMMER
When it’s as hot as in Dubai in the summer, choosing the right hotel is crucial. Maybe you want to make sure your hotel has a nice pool to freshen up, or you can splurge with a private pool! And you’re in Dubai, which means you can even stay at a hotel with a waterpark!
Dubai Hotels with Incredible Pools
▶️ Address Sky View – This 5-star hotel is located in Downtown Dubai, and features a large fitness center, two fantastic pools overlooking the city, a steam room, and spa facilities. All rooms have a workspace, a fully-equipped bathroom, a kettle, and a minibar, and accommodation includes a continental or buffet breakfast. ➥ BOOK IT NOW
▶️ Shangri-La Dubai – Spacious, neat bedrooms with views of the city, ensuite bathrooms with tubs, a spa and fitness center, and eight on-site restaurants are among the hotel’s top facilities, which also includes a large swimming pool with views of the Burj Khalifa, as well as an indoor pool. ➥ BOOK IT NOW
▶️ Raffles Dubai – This 5-star hotel in the shape of a pyramid features two outdoor pools, one of them on the rooftop offering great views, a poolside bar and several restaurants, a fitness center, and spa facilities. The rooms and common areas are elegantly decorated in Arabic style, there is butler service for all guests, and several breakfast options are included. ➥ BOOK IT NOW
Dubai Hotels with Private Pools
▶️ Five Jumeirah Village – This wonderful hotel is incredibly luxurious, boasts a fantastic beach club in Palm Jumeirah, and ample bedrooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. Some of them even include a hot tub or a private pool to unwind without the crowds. There’s a spa and fitness center, restaurants on-site, and two swimming pools with a view. I’ve written a full review of this hotel. ➥ BOOK IT NOW
▶️ Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort – This spectacular resort features villas with private pools, a 400-meter sandy beach for guests’ exclusive use, and a magnificent pool-lagoon to which some rooms have direct access. There are 4 restaurants with a range of different cuisines, a Thai spa, a kids club, and an array of experiences on offer. ➥ BOOK IT NOW
▶️ Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites – This all-inclusive hotel boasts ample suites with private pools, and several luxurious accommodation options, all of them with fully-equipped bathrooms with a tub, flat-screen TV, and exquisite decoration. There’s a wellness and fitness center, a kids’ playground, restaurants, a private beach area, and BBQ facilities. ➥ BOOK IT NOW
Dubai Hotels with Water Parks
▶️ Atlantis the Palm – Iconic for its building, this hotel is even more impressive on the inside. Luxurious rooms, a private beach, Arabian and oceanic-inspired decor, several restaurants, spa services, a kids club, bars, and entertainment are only some of the world-class facilities it offers. The stay includes access to the Lost Chambers Aquarium and the Aquaventure Waterpark. ➥ BOOK IT NOW
▶️ Jumeirah Al Qasr – This hotel boasts Arabic architecture, decorated rooms with furnished balconies, vast grounds with waterways, two kilometers of private beach, and a swimming pool. There are also spa facilities and a fitness center, restaurants on-site, a game room, and a nightclub. The stay includes access to the Wild Wadi Waterpark. ➥ BOOK IT NOW
▶️ Lapita – This 4-star hotel is in Dubai Parks & Resorts and includes access to the desired theme parks, including Legoland Waterpark. The Polynesian-inspired resort features 3 swimming pools, a fitness center, wellness packages, and bedrooms with a private balcony, fully-equipped bathrooms, a workspace, and a minibar. There are also 4 restaurants and a Kids and Teens Club. ➥ BOOK IT NOW
