What to Expect from the UAE Climate

Planning a trip to Dubai or anywhere in the UAE? Whether you visit in summer or wonder about Dubai‘s December weather, knowing the climate is important. From golden dunes to coastal breezes, this blog will guide you on what to expect. Plus, learn how Zerzura Experiences helps you enjoy the desert comfortably, no matter the season.

What Is the Weather Like in Dubai?

Dubai has a hot desert climate, officially classified as BWh on the Köppen climate scale. That means sunshine year-round, low humidity (except in the peak summer months), and hardly any rainfall. Still, the weather varies by season—and knowing how it changes can help you plan smarter.

Dubai’s weather attracts millions of visitors every year. Many come from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe. They seek warmth, adventure, and clear skies.

Key Dubai Weather Facts:

Today temperature in Dubai can range anywhere from 28°C (82°F) in spring to 45°C (113°F) in peak summer.
Dubai gets around 8–10 hours of sunshine daily, even during winter.
UAE weather rain is rare and mostly limited to short, scattered showers during winter and early spring.
The annual rainfall in Dubai is typically between 100mm and 150mm.

Dubai Weather by Season

Let’s break it down month by month, with tips on the best activities at each time of year:

🌤 Winter (December – February)

Day: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
Night: 14–18°C (57–64°F)
Rainfall: Light showers may occur—this is when you’re most likely to experience UAE weather rain.
Humidity: Low to moderate
Best for: Outdoor adventures, desert safaris, and cultural sightseeing

Dubai in December weather is some of the most pleasant of the year. It’s cool enough to enjoy the outdoors all day long without sweating under the sun. Whether you’re planning a sunrise dune buggy ride at Zerzura or strolling through Old Dubai, this is the ideal time to explore.

Pro tip: Bring a jacket or sweater for evenings in the desert—temperatures can dip below 15°C.

🔆 Spring (March – May)

Day: 30–38°C (86–100°F)
Night: 20–26°C (68–78°F)
Rainfall: Occasional showers in March; April and May are mostly dry
Humidity: Starts to rise by late April
Best for: Early morning or sunset tours, beach days, nature hikes

Spring is a transitional season in Dubai, with rising temperatures and the last chance for rain before the dry summer sets in. March may still see UAE weather rain, but it’s often limited to one or two short spells.

Activities like fossil exploration at Mleiha or late afternoon camel rides at Zerzura are perfect during this period.

☀️ Summer (June – September)

Day: 40–45°C (104–113°F)
Night: 30–35°C (86–95°F)
Rainfall: Very rare
Humidity: High, especially in August and September
Best for: Evening desert tours, indoor attractions, staycations

Summer in Dubai can feel intense, especially for first-time visitors. However, what many don’t realize is that the desert can actually be more comfortable than the city—especially in the evenings. That’s because unlike urban areas full of heat-retaining concrete, the sand cools rapidly after sunset, making it ideal for Zerzura’s sunset buggy experiences.

Today temperature in summer can hit 44°C, but it drops significantly after 5 PM in the desert.

🌅 Autumn (October – November)

Day: 28–35°C (82–95°F)
Night: 20–26°C (68–78°F)
Rainfall: Begins to increase in late November
Humidity: Drops significantly after September
Best for: Desert safaris, stargazing dinners, archaeological tours

As the heat fades and the skies remain clear, autumn is a fantastic time to visit Dubai. You’ll enjoy all the perks of summer—like empty tourist attractions and lower travel prices—without the overwhelming heat.

October marks the start of peak season for Zerzura, as guests return to enjoy outdoor desert adventures and private dining under the stars.

Why Is the Desert Cooler Than the City?

This surprises many travelers: the desert actually feels cooler than Dubai city—especially at night. Why?

Urban areas retain heat due to concrete, glass, and asphalt
Desert sand, on the other hand, releases heat quickly after sunset
Result: evening temperatures in the desert are often 7–10°C cooler than in downtown Dubai

That’s why Zerzura Experiences in Mleiha National Park times most of its activities around the natural cooling period, especially from 4 PM to 8 PM.

What to Pack for Dubai’s Weather

If you’re visiting from the UK or US, here’s what you should bring for year-round comfort:

Breathable, light clothing (linen and cotton are great)
Sun protection: sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat
Closed shoes for buggy rides and fossil hikes
Jacket or shawl for winter nights and indoor air-conditioning

Best Time to Visit Dubai Based on Weather

If weather is your top concern, here’s your answer:

✅ Best Months: November to March

Mild temperatures, cool nights, and outdoor-perfect conditions.

🚫 Avoid If Sensitive to Heat: July & August

Unless you’re only planning indoor activities or sunset tours, these months are the hottest.

Still, with smart planning, even summer has its perks: fewer tourists, lower hotel prices, and exclusive evening desert experiences.

Experience Dubai’s Desert Weather with Zerzura

No better way to experience Dubai’s natural beauty exists than with a trip to the fossil-rich deserts of Mleiha. At Zerzura, we offer great desert experiences that match the weather. It doesn’t matter if you visit in December or July.

Here’s what you can do with us:

Ride custom-built dune buggies designed for desert performance and safety
Watch the sun set behind Fossil Rock
Dine under the stars in a solar-powered camp
Learn about 80-million-year-old fossils and ancient artifacts with expert guides

Final Thoughts: Let Dubai’s Weather Enhance Your Trip

Whether you’re checking the today temperature in Dubai or wondering about UAE weather rain patterns, planning around the climate helps you get the best out of your trip. From desert safaris to stargazing, there’s a perfect time for every kind of experience.

Ready to plan your desert adventure? Book a Zerzura Experience and let the unique weather of the UAE elevate your journey.

Dubai Weather Guide:

Dune buggy experiences

Dining experiences

Dubai Weather Guide: