dubai travel in august

Dubai In August: Is It The WORST Time To Visit?

by DUBAILOVEYOU April 7, 2023, 11:26 am 1.8k Views

Dubai is a fantastic holiday destination: it has the world’s tallest skyscrapers, indoor theme parks and is a shopper’s paradise. However, August is mid-summer in the UAE and Dubai’s second hottest month. Is August a good time to visit Duba?

August is a good time to visit Dubai if you plan to be indoors with air-conditioning and avoid the midsummer heat and humidity.

It’s off-peak for tourism, so flight and hotel deals are available. Dubai was built for the heat, so there’s a wide variety of indoor shopping and entertainment venues.

The combination of desert and ocean means Dubai faces sweltering heat and sandstorms in summer. However, don’t let the weather put you off enjoying this incredible tourist hot spot. Let’s look at why August is a good time to visit Dubai.  

How Hot Is Dubai In August?

Visiting Dubai in August means a holiday in a desert country in mid-summer: temperatures soar, humidity rises, and sand blows everywhere. There is no chance of a refreshing thunderstorm.

Few people can stand outside temperatures of 110-114⁰F (43-47⁰C). It’s as hot in the shade as in the sun , and temperatures drop only a couple of degrees at night.

Outdoors is not appealing and, frankly, can be dangerous. By law, laborers must take a break between 12 and 3 to avoid heatstroke, sunburn, and dehydration, so follow their example.

It’s so hot that outdoor pools are cooled , not heated. Restaurants close their outdoor seating areas for a couple of months, and attractions like Global Village and Dubai Miracle Gardens close for the summer.

Outdoor activities like swimming, beach volleyball, sea-kayaking, dune-bashing, and BBQ in the desert aren’t the best choice for August.

Do You Like Indoor Vacations?

Don’t let the hot weather put you off from visiting Dubai in August, so long as you’re happy to spend most of your vacation indoors.

The city was designed to make life as comfortable as possible in the heat, so everything is air-conditioned .

All public buildings, including hotels, mosques, shopping malls, museums, restaurants, movie houses, and banks, are air-conditioned, so once you’re indoors, it’s pleasantly cool.

Taxis, trams, and the metro are all air-conditioned so that you can travel around the city in relative comfort. Walking from place to place isn’t a great idea , but taxis are reasonably priced.

In fact, you should pack a light jacket, wrap, or cardigan, as you can feel chilly when inside.

Is August Peak Tourist Season In Dubai?

Summer is the peak tourist season in Europe, with people flocking to Greece, Spain, and Italy. However, it’s the off-peak season in Dubai .

Because August’s off-peak, prices of hotels drop in Dubai, so it’s the cheapest time of the year to visit.

Since the pandemic, flight prices have remained high, but you can usually get reduced fares to Dubai in summer .

There are also fewer tourists in Dubai in August, but note that tourist numbers are always high.

What Are Staycation Specials?

As many expats and locals exit Dubai in summer, and it’s off-peak for tourists, you’ll find many deals on staycations .

Taking a staycation is a Dubai tradition. Many hotels and resorts, including those on the coast, offer specials during August.

If you want to stay in a fabulous hotel (Burj Al Arab, anyone?), this is the time to book, especially if you have small children. Many hotel specials include children’s board and lodging free .

Do You Enjoy Shopping?

Whatever the weather or season, Dubai is the ultimate shopping destination .

With enormous and beautiful malls, like Dubai Mall , Mall of the Emirates , and Dubai Hills Mall , there are enough high-end, designer stores to satisfy any hunger for shopping.

The Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Perfume Souk in the old part of Dubai are uncomfortable in August .

However, Souk Madinat  in Jumeirah and the souk in Dubai Mall offer the marketplace experience without the heat and dust.

For bargains and factory-shop prices, head to the Dubai Outlet Mall  or Dragonmart , where you will find items you never knew you needed.

Many shopping malls participate in summer shopping festivals like Dubai Summer Surprises, with plenty of sales and discounted items .

Is Indoor Entertainment On Offer?

When you’ve shopped your heart out, head for the many indoor activities available. You’ll find good deals on some of these attractions in August . Here’s a sample of the best indoor entertainment in Dubai.

Sightseeing

There are many world-class tourist sights in Dubai, and you’ll find shorter queues in August than at other times of the year.

• The Burj Khalifa , the world’s tallest building, provides incredible views. Take the elevator up to the enormous viewing deck to watch the sunset. For a different perspective, visit the Dubai Frame , although the walk from the parking area is through a park.
• The Museum of the Future , housed in a spectacular building, is Dubai’s latest attraction. You’ll gain a fascinating insight into our changing world and the technology that impacts it.
• The Burj Al Arab  is the world’s only seven-star hotel . You can tour the hotel and marvel at the magnificent interiors, then enjoy afternoon tea or a gold cappuccino.

Activities For Families

Keeping the whole family busy and working off some energy is a holiday must. There are many theme parks and physical adventures for youngsters and the young at heart.

• Motiongate  and IMG Worlds of Adventure  are indoor movie-inspired theme parks with family-friendly rides, restaurants, and other attractions.
• Ski Dubai  allows you to experience winter in mid-summer . With a massive ski slope, Ski Dubai gives visitors the opportunity to take skiing lessons, meet penguins, and enjoy the snow park.
• KidZania  in Dubai Mall offers a scaled-down replica of Dubai. Children can explore different professions through role-playing games. This exciting attraction is fun and educational at the same time.
• VR Park  is the world’s largest virtual reality park where you can explore virtual and augmented reality experiences.
• Dubai Autodrome  is a go-carting enthusiast’s dream, with an indoor track. Also, enjoy laser tag when your need for speed is sated.
• Indoor Skydiving  is an excellent idea if it’s too hot outside. It’s also safer for those who want the thrill without the danger.

Enjoying Nature

When the skyscrapers and bright lights overwhelm you, head to one of Dubai’s indoor nature destinations to relax and recharge.

• The Green Planet , an indoor biodome, houses a tropical rainforest with jungle birds and animals. Children can interact with sloths, parrots, and reptiles. Look out for the daily rain showers!
• Dubai is home to two aquariums, Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo  in Dubai Mall and The Lost Chambers Aquarium  at Atlantis on the Palm. Both are fascinating and offer beautiful insight into the underwater world. There are opportunities to dive with the fish and feed penguins .
• Take a cruise around Dubai’s Marina , and enjoy the ocean views from the luxury of an air-conditioned boat.
• Deep Dive Dubai  is the world’s deepest diving pool, full of fascinating underwater treasures to explore. The facility offers activities for beginners and experienced divers.

Dubai is home to some impressive theatre-style shows, which are suitable for young and old.

• La Perle by Dragone  is an incredible circus-like show in a purpose-built theatre. The dream-like tale follows a young girl and her adventures and features dance, acrobatics, and aerial and aquatic stunts.
• The Theatre of Digital Art  presents three-dimensional music and immersive artwork experiences using state-of-the-art technology.

For a fantastic round-up of indoor activities over the summer, take a look at TimeOut’s bucket list .

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Visiting Dubai in August | The definitive guide

Things to do in Dubai Dubai Travel Guide Best Time to Visit Dubai Dubai in August

Beyond the glittering skyscrapers and exhilarating theme parks, Dubai holds an allure that transcends the ordinary. It stands as a testament to humanity's capacity for extraordinary achievements, from erecting the tallest building in the world to nurturing Gentoo penguins in an indoor habitat. Dubai's relentless drive towards progress knows no bounds, transforming it into a veritable oasis in the desert. Whether you're a family seeking adventure, a couple seeking romance, or a solo traveler in pursuit of self-discovery, Dubai beckons with its diverse offerings. While August in Dubai heralds the peak of summer, it also brings forth irresistible discounts on shopping and a plethora of summer-exclusive events to captivate visitors. Dubai's commitment to entertainment is unparalleled, ensuring an experience like no other city can offer.

Quick Jumplinks to Navigate the Guide

What makes Dubai in August special?

Dubai weather in august.

• Dubai in August: Things to Do
• Dubai in August: Events to Look Out For
• Dubai in August: 5-day Itinerary
• Dubai Essentials

Tips for Visiting Dubai in August

• Off-season perks – August in Dubai marks the peak of summer, deterring many international tourists due to the intense heat. Additionally, with the start of the school year in numerous countries, there's a noticeable decrease in crowds. This means you can enjoy tourist attractions with fewer people and benefit from reduced fares on flights and accommodation.
• Indoor Fun – Dubai boasts a plethora of indoor attractions, shielded from the scorching temperatures. From rainforests and aquariums to theme parks and art galleries, you'll find a diverse range of activities to enjoy in air-conditioned comfort. Entertainment options such as concerts are also readily available indoors, allowing you to avoid the sun while taking advantage of discounts.
• Summer of surprises – August in Dubai brings the "Summer of Surprises," a shopping extravaganza featuring sales and significant discounts across stores. Shopping during this period offers the added advantage of fewer crowds, allowing you to explore the offerings without the usual rush. The enticing discounts make it an ideal time for shopping enthusiasts to indulge in a unique retail experience.

In Dubai, August heralds the arrival of the "Summer of Surprises," a shopping bonanza brimming with sales and substantial discounts throughout the city's stores. This opportune time presents the added perk of sparse crowds, granting shoppers the luxury of leisurely perusing the offerings sans the usual hustle and bustle. With irresistible discounts abound, it's the perfect moment for avid shoppers to revel in an unparalleled retail adventure.

Dubai in August : Things to do

Burj khalifa.

Head to the world’s highest observation deck ‘At the Top’ located in the 828-metre tall Burj Khalifa . Enjoy fewer crowds in August and take in the views at your own pace. Choose to buy combo tickets with other attractions like Dubai Aquarium, Desert Safari and enjoy up to 47% discounts.

August Timings Sunrise: Daily 5:30 am-8 am At The Top: 8:30 am-11 pm

1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Dubai United Arab Emirates Getting There ›

Ferrari World - Abu Dhabi

Take a short road trip and visit Abu Dhabi to ring up the high-adrenaline fun at Ferrari World . The indoor amusement park is perfect to get away from the sun and has rides for the entire family. Take the excitement to the next level by getting combo tickets to Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros.World.

August Timings Sun to Wed: 11 am-8 pm Thu to Sat: 11 am–10 pm

Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Getting There ›

Dubai Frame

It happens only in Dubai! The city has constructed a fabulous 150 feet building that looks like a picture frame and offers a unique perspective to view the city. Buy a ticket to the observation deck of Dubai Frame and soak in extraordinary views of old and new Dubai.

August Timings Daily: 9 am-9 pm

Al Kifaf, Zabeel Park Jogging Track, Dubai United Arab Emirates Getting There ›

Dubai Dolphinarium & Seal Show

Image Courtesy

Stay cool in Dubai in August and get into an indoor aquarium to watch a 45 minute show at Dubai Dolphinarium , with friendly Dolphins and Seals. The only such kind of a show in Dubai, it will feature the lovely and intelligent animals dancing, juggling, jumping through hoops and playing ball.

August Show Timings Mon to Sat: 11 am, 2 pm and 6 pm

Riyadh Street, Umm Hurair 2, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Getting There ›

La Perle by Dragone

The air-conditioned water stage of the La Perle Dragone is the best place to find yourself in summer evenings. La Perle Dragone is Dubai’s first permanent live entertainment show and showcases the wonderful history and culture of Dubai through acrobatics, and mind-blowing aerial and aquatic feats.

August Timings Mon to Thu: 7 pm and 9:30 pm Fri & Sat: 4 pm and 7 pm

260 Sheikh Zayed Rd, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Getting There ›

Take a respite from the summer afters in Dubai in August and head to the cold environs of Ski Dubai . Dubai’s best indoor adventure park it includes a ski slope, a full-fledged snow park with rides for the entire family and a penguin nursery with King and Gentoo Penguins.

August Timings Sun to Thur – 10 am-12 am (Midnight) Fri & Sat – 9 am-12 am (Midnight) Penguin March – 2 pm, 4 pm, 6 pm and 9 pm

Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Getting There ›

Half-Day Dubai City Tour

Take a quick and comprehensive tour of Dubai and witness its architectural and cultural marvels. Enjoy a ride in an air-conditioned bus as you drive through iconic buildings like Jumeirah Mosque, Saga Mall, Al Qasar, Burj Al Arab view, Atlantis and King’s Palace. Upgrade your experience with a 4X4 drive or a visit to the Burj Khalifa observation deck at a small price.

August Timings Depends on chosen tour

Dubai, United Arab Emirates Getting There ›

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Children or adults, it will be tough for anyone to leave the Dubai Aquarium ! The indoor aquarium is full of experiences ranging from shark encounters to the underwater zoo where you can view more than 140 species of aquatic animals. The cool blue environs of the aquarium will make you forget the Dubai heat!

August Timings Daily: 10 am-12 am (Midnight)

Financial Center Rd, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Getting There ›

Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi

Warner Bros. has created a long list of unforgettable fictional characters that have attached themselves to people's lives for all time. If you're planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates in July, make sure to visit the Warner Bros. World. It contains many of the studio's all-time favorites, such as Batman, Scooby-Doo, and the Flintstones.The park is designed to look like a Hollywood backlot, and it features six different themed areas, each with its own rides, shows, and attractions.

August Timings Daily - 10 am-8 pm

Al Falah Rd, Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates Getting There ›

Evening Desert Safari

You might want to steer clear of the desert in summer, but the deserts have a way of cooling down in the evenings and a perfect way to spend the nights in Dubai in August. Go on an evening desert safari and enjoy traditional desert activities like camel riding, quad biking and eating a BBQ dinner.

August Timings Every day at 3 pm

Al Aveer Desert, Dubai Getting There ›

Dubai in August : Events to Look Out For

Beat The Heat: Modi Al Shamrani and DJ Aseel live

August 19, 2023 Exciting news for fans of the Saudi sensation Modi Al Shamrani! You have every reason to celebrate, as the talented singer is all set to grace Dubai with her presence at the highly anticipated Beat The Heat summer concert series. Mark your calendars for August 19th and head to The Agenda to experience the live performance of this social media star.

Lee Jong Suk Fanmeeting Tour

August 5 Renowned actor Lee Jong Suk is about to embark on an eagerly awaited fan meeting tour, marking a comeback after five long years. The journey will commence in Hong Kong on July 1, and it promises to mesmerize audiences across 11 vibrant cities, including Taipei, Jakarta, Dubai, Bangkok, and Seoul.

Beat The Heat: Sharmoofers and Autostrad live

August 12 Get your weekend started in style on August 12th with Beat The Heat's fantastic indoor concert, featuring the dynamic Egyptian fusion band Sharmoofers and the talented Jordanian indie band Autostrad.

The Selfdrive Laughter Factory

August 18-26, 2023 Get ready for some belly-aching laughter as The Selfdrive Laughter Factory presents "The Hilarity Expedition to the Naughty Pole" Tour, featuring the uproarious talents of Ryan Cullen, Nick Page, and Karen Bailey. This side-splitting comedy tour is set to hit Dubai and Abu Dhabi from Friday, August 18, until Saturday, August 26, 2023.

Dubai in August : 5-day Itinerary

5 Days in Dubai Itinerary

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Dubai Dolphinarium

Desert Safari

Garden Glow

Dhow Cruise

IMG Worlds of Adventure

Jumble The Urban Maze

Dubai in August : Essentials

Language Arabic

Time zone GMT+4

Country Code +971

Socket Type C, D and G

Currency Arab Emirate Dirham (AED)

August in Dubai ranks among the sweltering months, with daytime temperatures soaring up to 41°C/105°F and dipping to a low of 31°C/87°F. Rainfall is virtually nonexistent, humidity remains low, and sea temperatures hover around a pleasant 33°C/92°F, ideal for a refreshing swim. With approximately 13 hours of daylight, the sun rises around 5:45 AM and sets around 6:45 PM, offering ample opportunity for city exploration.

Where to Stay in Dubai during July

Dubai in August is the low season and you can find deep discounts even on luxury hotels. Dubai Downtown (near Burj Khalifa), Jumeirah Beach Area, Dubai Marina Area, and Palm Jumeirah are some of the best places to stay in Dubai in August. Here is our list of favourite hotels to stay in Dubai –

• Luxury – Raffles Dubai, Address Dubai Marina, Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah, Grosvenor House, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai
• Mid-Range – Al Bandar Arjaan Creek, Double Tree by Hilton, Ramada Downtown Dubai, The Retreat Palm Dubai, Hilton Dubai the Walk
• Budget – Rove Dubai Marina, Centro Barsha, Oaks Liwa Heights, ibis Style Jumeirah Dubai, London Crown Hotel

What to Pack for Visiting Dubai in August

Dubai in August has soaring temperatures with harsh sunlight that can leave you sunburnt! The best way to tackle this is by ensuring you wear loose fitting and fully covered clothing. Wear cotton and linen that will help you stay cool, and don’t forget to carry accessories like hats, caps and scarves that you can use to cover your face like the locals do. Apply oodles of sunscreen, and always carry a bottle of water.

Getting Around Dubai in August

Dubai is a city that thrives on its tourist footfalls and if you are using tours, including the ones from Headout, you can avail their pick up and drop service. However, if you wish to venture out on your own the public transport is efficient, and the first thing you can do is buy a Nol Card to use transport.

Here are your options for public transport in Dubai –

• Dubai Metro – Quick, cheap and has two lines covering 49 stations.
• Dubai Tram – Covers the area from Al Sufouh to Jumeirah Beach Residences and has 11 stations.
• Buses – Extensive network and cheap.
• Water crafts – The newly opened Dubai Ferry has 5 routes and the Dubai Water Taxi serves 43 stations that will help you get around quickly.

Read our complete guide on Dubai Public Transportation and getting around Dubai economically here .

Dubai in August - Must-Try Delicacies

The heat outdoors can leave you exhausted and the best way to relax and fill up on the calories is the Manakish! The traditional pizza-like dish is unleavened bread that is baked and spread with toppings like zaatar leaves, tomatoes, onions, mince meat and cheese. Where to eat: Man’oushe Street, Dubai Mall

A spicy and wholesome stew is just the right pick me up after a long day of sightseeing. Also known as Fūl or Foul, this dish is made of fava beans and Arabic spices, and garnished with parsley, garlic, onion, and lemon juice. You can eat it with bread or just as it is! Where to eat: Foul w Hummus, Al Barsha

While this drink typically comes out in the month of Ramadan, its cooling properties make it a great choice during summers in Dubai. The drink originally from Syria is made of dried apricots that are mixed with rosewater or orange blossom water and topped with ice. Where to eat: Zahr El-Laymoun, Souk Al Bahar

This dessert is as decadent as they come! The Kanafeh or Kunafa is made with thin noodle-like pastry that is soaked in sweet sugary-syrup and layered with cheese, clotted cream, and nuts. The medley of textures is unlike any other dessert you would have tasted. Where to eat: Firas Sweets, Al Hudaiba

• Hotel rates reduce up to 50% of displayed rates during Dubai in August. Make use of the discounts and choose to book a hotel with an indoor swimming pool. A swim is the best way to cool off at the end of the day.
• Plan your vacation avoiding the weekends on Friday and Saturday, as all the locals will prefer heading out to amusement parks and indoor arenas. You will find that Monday to Thursdays are blissful in shopping malls and tourist attractions with very few tourists, it’s especially ideal when you are queuing up for the rides in the amusement parks!
• Book all the tickets in advance; you will save time in queues at the ticket counters. You can also enjoy the skip the line access that is offered with Headout tickets for many of the tourist attractions. Dubai always has many combo offers on desert safari , theme parks and other attraction tickets . These combo offers help you save big bucks and allow you to explore more of the city.
• Despite the fewer crowds thanks to the summer in Dubai in August, restaurants are often booked out with visitors who want to escape the heat. If you are planning to visit high-end restaurants, it is a good idea to book reservations.
• You can turn off your early morning alarm as most of Dubai comes alive only in the evenings. Many places are open till midnight and since the days are long you don’t have to worry about calling it an early night. Sleep in and enjoy a truly relaxing vacation in Dubai.

Explore Dubai By Months

Planning to Visit Dubai?

For more Dubai information, here are some helpful quick links!

What is there to do in Dubai in August?

There is plenty to do in Dubai in August, from enjoying the beaches and pools to exploring the city's many attractions, shopping malls and restaurants. There are also a number of events and festivals taking place throughout the month.

What is the weather like in Dubai in August?

The weather in Dubai in August is hot and sunny, with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius. However, the evenings are cooler and much more comfortable.

What should I pack for Dubai in August?

For Dubai in August, you will need to pack light summer clothes such as t-shirts, shorts and skirts. However, it is also a good idea to pack a few items of clothing for the cooler evenings. You should also pack sun cream, a hat and sunglasses.

What is the best way to get around Dubai?

The best way to get around Dubai is by taxi or Uber as the public transport system is not very reliable. If you are planning on doing a lot of sightseeing, it might be worth hiring a car for the day.

What are the best indoor attractions in Dubai?

Some of the best indoor attractions in Dubai in August are Ski Dubai, IMG Worlds Of Adventure, Ferrari World, and Warner Bros Abu Dhabi.

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Shilpa Kulkarni

Shilpa grew up trekking and camping in the forests of South India, watching baby elephants accompany their mother to the river, dreaming of becoming a naturalist. Life got in the way, an MBA happened and a sales job followed, but soon enough she had a moment of epiphany and quit the corporate race to become a freelance travel writer. Now, she virtually travels across the globe inspiring people to travel through her writing, while plotting her next trip.

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