Can Dubai really be that hot? Here’s what you should expect when you visit Dubai during the summer

Dubai

In the summer, Dubai can be very hot. It’s scorching outside. The temperature can reach up to 50°C (122°F). Does it still make sense to visit Dubai during the hot summer months, or even plan a longer holiday there?

There are going to be extreme temperatures, but the city has also been built to deal with them. Let’s explore what you may expect from a summer vacation in Dubai. 

Summer Survival Guide in Dubai

How hot does it get in Dubai during the summer?

Summer averages are 45°C (113°F), however, daytime maximums of 50°C (122°F) are not unusual. In Dubai, August is the warmest month of the year. May through October is the summer season in Dubai. 

There can also be a substantial difference between what you feel in Dubai and what is actually reported during the height of summer. Not only the temperature but also the humidity must be taken into consideration. It’s even better if you have a weather app that can inform you what the temperature feels like.

In the second half of the summer, from August to September, the humidity in Dubai is particularly high. 

It’s also worth noting that, temperatures do not go below 30°C (86°F) overnight despite the absence of the sun’s tremendous heat. Without the bright sun and heat, you can see and do a lot more after sunset, but be practical about what can be actually accomplished at nighttime.

How to cope with the heat in Dubai

Most travelers will find that coping with the summer heat in Dubai is not quite as hard as it may appear. To begin with, practically everything is air-conditioned, even to the point of being too cold. Come to an air-conditioned airport, move to an air-conditioned vehicle or Metro train, and check into an air-conditioned hotel. In many places, even bus stops have air conditioning.

During the summer months, most hotels such as The H Dubai Hotel freeze their pools to make them a refreshing escape, even if the outside air temperature is scorching. Early mornings and late afternoons/evenings are still the best times to swim.

The sea, on the other hand, is a different story! During the summer, you should be aware that the Gulf’s seawater can get really hot to swim in  (32-35°C/90-95°F), making it feel more like a steam bath than a refreshing getaway.

Sand becomes unbearably hot in the summer, in case you didn’t know. The experience of burning sand in your sandals or flip-flops is enough to convince you otherwise. 

In Dubai, it’s important to dress appropriately for the heat.

Dressing appropriately for the heat is always a good idea. It should be noted though that ladies should not assume that a burkha or full head covering is required. This suggests that loose cotton clothing that is nonetheless decent is the best option. 

Thoughts about summer clothing:

  • The difference in temperature between outside and inside air conditioning can be enormous. Don’t forget to bring a scarf or blazer for those chilly indoor moments!
  • Keep your clothes breathable and made with cotton or rayon. Artificial materials will make you increasingly warmer and sweatier.
  • Always dress decently for the Muslim country you are in when strolling around the best 5-star hotels in Dubai, public transportation, shopping malls, and restaurants. Consider covered knees and shoulders for both sexes, as well as nothing too tight or provocative.
  • Even though this seems to have relaxed over the years, keep your skimpy clothing and bathing suits to the pool and beach as a sign of respect.

Summertime in Dubai: Where to Go

Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall

Despite the fact that it is summer, one of the world’s largest malls has a lot going on. There are so many things to do in dubai here that you could easily spend a few days here! Some of the best places to eat in Dubai are located here. Additionally, some of the favorite tourist attractions in Dubai Mall, which is located in the center of Downtown Dubai and just a few minutes away from The H Dubai Hotel are:

  • Dubai fountain – The fountain is brought to life with light and music performances. The lake can be seen from all places along the lake promenade and many buildings nearby. On weekdays, performances are at 1:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m., while on weekends, performances are at 6 p.m. and 11 p.m.
  • Dubai Ice Rink — This cutting-edge family attraction features real snow and ice for winter sports. 
  • Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo – You can enjoy the world’s largest suspended tank from within the Mall for free, or come in for plenty of engaging marine life activities.
  • Burj Khalifa Observation Deck – Advance reservations are required for the Burj Khalifa Observation Deck (Levels 124 & 125 “At The Top”). The Dubai Mall’s basement floor serves as the entrance.

The best places to visit in Dubai during the summer

While you still need to walk outside a little to reach them, these are the best for keeping cool indoors! 

  • La Perle – With a permanent location in Al Habtoor City, Dragone’s La Perle nightly spectacle is one of the city’s most lauded theatrical productions. 
  • The Dubai Frame – Zabeel Park offers spectacular views as well as interactive displays about Dubai’s past and present.
  • The Green Planet Dubai – At City Walk, a completely indoor biodome transports you to a tropical rainforest. 
  • IMG Worlds of Adventure – It is Dubai’s only theme park that is fully indoors.
  • Dubai Parks and Resorts – This is another popular family attraction, alongside Legoland Dubai and Motiongate, however, it may not be suitable for everyone due to the fact that it is mostly outside.

Where should you stay this summer in Dubai?

The good news is that the answer may be found absolutely everywhere. All of the best hotels to stay in Dubai are air-conditioned, and it’s rare to find a hotel pool that isn’t chilled in the summertime. You will have good access to leisure and dining facilities if you stay in a hotel directly connected to one of the malls, souqs, or metro stations. 

One last thought. It’s imperative to stay hydrated. Keep your Dubai transportation apps on your phone, if you do decide to go on a stroll outside during the day, take precautions, and be realistic about how far you can go.

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