The Emirates have an extreme desert climate, and unlike destinations with milder seasons, here the date of the trip isn't a nuance — it's the difference between enjoying every outdoor activity or spending the trip dodging the heat. Here's how we decide, month by month, when we recommend going.
November to March: the window we recommend
It's high season for the right reason: sunny days, temperatures of 20-30°C, and cool evenings perfect for dining on a terrace with the Burj Khalifa in the background. It's also the ideal window for the itinerary's Liwa chapter — nights under the desert stars are far more enjoyable without summer's extreme heat.
In Liwa, the difference between a magical night under the stars and an uncomfortable one comes down to a single variable: the month you booked.
April, May, October: shoulder season
The heat starts climbing (or dropping, depending on the month) but remains manageable, especially in the mornings and evenings. A good option if you're after softer rates without diving fully into desert summer.
June to September: Gulf summer
Temperatures frequently top 40°C, and Dubai's humidity makes them feel even more intense. The trip is lived almost entirely indoors — malls, museums, air-conditioned restaurants — and activities like camel riding or dune buggies become inadvisable.
Our recommendation
If your itinerary includes Liwa and outdoor activities in Abu Dhabi or Dubai, aim for November–March without hesitation. If your priority is indoor experiences — the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Museum of the Future, the top of the Burj Khalifa — summer works with lower rates, as long as you accept living the heat only during transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time to travel to Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
November to March, when temperatures hover around 20-30°C and every outdoor activity — dunes, rooftop terraces, the Corniche — is fully enjoyable.
Is it too hot in summer?
Yes — from June to September temperatures frequently exceed 40°C, even at night. Travel isn't impossible, but you'll spend most of your time indoors, between hotels, malls and air-conditioned museums.
Does Ramadan affect the trip?
During Ramadan, eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours is frowned upon (and in some cases restricted) outside tourist areas, and some restaurants reduce their daytime hours. It doesn't cancel the trip, but it's worth planning exact dates with us if it overlaps with your itinerary.
