By Mohammed Rashad Hussain, Managing PartnerPublished 2 min read
How hot is Dubai in summer?
The 1991 to 2020 normals for Dubai International give mean daily highs of 40.0°C in June, 41.5°C in July and 41.9°C in August, with September at 39.5°C. Mean lows stay between 28°C and 31.5°C in those months. For the full year, see Dubai weather by month.
Humidity makes it feel worse near the coast. The UAE also bans outdoor work at midday in summer, 12:30 to 3 pm from 15 June to 15 September in 2026, which shows how hard the hours are.
Is it worth visiting Dubai in June, July or August?
It can be. You get quieter attractions and, often, lower hotel rates, but you plan every day around the sun. Compare the months in the best time to visit Dubai. If you cannot travel in winter, summer is workable with a driver and an indoor-first plan.
What still works outdoors?
- Morning desert safari: a morning desert safari starts before the heat peaks. Compare it in our morning versus evening safari guide, or see the standard desert safari.
- Evening dhow cruise: the Dubai Marina dhow cruise runs after sunset, when the water is cooler than the land.
- Night beaches: Jumeirah Beach after dark is far more comfortable than midday.
Indoor plans for the hottest hours
Between 11 am and 4 pm, head indoors: Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates, the Dubai Aquarium in Dubai Mall, and museums. Our Dubai itinerary can be reordered around this pattern.
Heat safety for children and older travellers
Avoid long walks in the middle of the day, carry water, and use shade. Take breaks in air conditioning and watch for signs of heat stress. Families can find more in the Dubai with kids guide. We did not source official health-ministry advice, so check MOHAP or the Dubai Health Authority for formal guidance.
Getting around without walking
Short walks between stops feel long at 42°C. Options:
- Metro: stations are air conditioned, but the walk to them is not. See how to get around Dubai.
- Taxi: easy at malls and hotels, but queues form at midday.
- Car with driver: your driver waits at the door, keeps the cabin cool and handles the airport. Book a car with driver by the hour or by the trip, with the price quoted on WhatsApp. Assure is RTA licensed and answers 24/7.
Summer prices and deals
Hotels and some attractions cut prices in summer, and Dubai Summer Surprises runs retail promotions. We have not sourced this year’s dates here, so check the official site. Tour and transfer prices at Assure are quoted on WhatsApp for your dates.
More on the city in the Dubai travel guide.
Photos in this guide
Dubai Marina canal with yachts and towers under a clear summer skyRavi Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
A shopping mall corridor in Dubai, an air-conditioned option for the hottest hoursAnk Kumar / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Boats on Dubai Creek with mosque minarets and old Dubai buildings behindStefano Vigorelli / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Dubai Marina towers lit up at night, when summer evenings are more comfortableGfilip / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
