Dubai in Winter – The Best Months for Being Outdoors

Month by month: what to expect

This is a general guide. Weather changes from year to year, so check the forecast close to your trip.

Why winter is the season for outdoor plans

In summer, most outdoor activities are squeezed into the early morning or after sunset. Winter gives you the whole day. You can do a morning safari, a sunset one or a sunrise trip without worrying about the midday heat, and walking between sights in the city becomes enjoyable rather than a sweaty dash to the next air-conditioned building.

Winter is also when Dubai's seasonal attractions are open. Global Village and Dubai Miracle Garden both run during the cooler months, and outdoor restaurants, rooftop terraces and beach clubs are at their busiest. Many major events and festivals happen in this season too, although their dates change every year.

Outdoor experiences worth planning around

The desert. Winter is the most comfortable time for dune bashing, camel rides and sandboarding. Our Dubai desert safari guide covers the options. You can also read how a morning and evening desert safari compare. For a quiet, cool start to the day, a sunrise desert safari is at its best in winter.

The mountains. Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah is much cooler than the coast in winter and can feel cold at the top. Our Jebel Jais mountain tour makes a good day trip away from the city.

The city on foot. Winter is the time to explore old Dubai, the creek and the waterfront properly. A Dubai city sightseeing tour covers the main areas in one day. If you have time, an Abu Dhabi city tour is easier to enjoy in cooler weather too.

Evenings on the water. A dhow cruise or a yacht dinner cruise is especially pleasant on a cool winter night. During the day, jet skiing and water sports are still popular, though the sea is cooler than in summer.

Seasonal favourites. Our Global Village and Dubai Frame tour combines one of the season's busiest evening attractions with a city landmark.

For a ready-made plan that includes several of these, see our 5-day Dubai itinerary.

What winter doesn't fix

Winter is the most comfortable time to visit, but there are a few trade-offs to know about before you book.

• It's the busiest season. Hotels, flights and popular tours fill up, especially over Christmas and New Year. Book your key activities early, subject to availability.
• The sun is still strong. Even on cooler days you'll need sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
• Rain happens occasionally. Dubai gets most of its rain in winter. It's rarely heavy, but it can change plans for the day.
• Mornings can be foggy. Early fog sometimes rolls in over the desert and the coast, which can affect sunrise views and road times.
• Evenings can feel cool. This is especially true in the desert and in the mountains.
• Ramadan may fall in your trip. Ramadan currently falls in the cooler months and is expected to start in February 2027, depending on the moon sighting. Tours still run, but some timings and dining arrangements change, so check your dates.

What to pack for a Dubai winter

• Light, breathable clothing for the day
• A light jacket, sweater or shawl for evenings, the desert and air-conditioned spaces
• A warmer layer if you're going to Jebel Jais
• Closed shoes for the desert and comfortable walking shoes for the city
• Swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
• Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees for mosques and traditional areas