Are you hesitating to plan a trip to Dubai in September because of the weather? Dubai offers high temperatures at this time of year, generally between 32°C and 38°C, with humidity levels that can make the atmosphere quite oppressive.
However, there are a few advantages to this September heat of the Arab Emirates: more attractive rates for flights and hotels, and less crowded attractions to make the most of this extraordinary city.
Dubai weather in September
In September in Dubai, be prepared for particularly high temperatures! The thermometer generally reads between 32°C and 38°C, with an average around 35°C. The climate in the United Arab Emirates remains scorching hot, with an average humidity level of 57%, amplifying the feeling of heat.
| Indicator | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum temperature | 32°C | Mainly at night |
| Maximum temperature | 38°C | Record at 42°C (2009) |
| Average temperature | 35°C | Slight fall at the end of September |
| Sea temperature | 33°C | Very hot water |
| Humidity level | 57% | Increased sensation of heat |
| Sunshine | 12h-12h30/day | Get up around 6 a.m., go to bed around 6:30 p.m. |
The extreme heat in Dubai in September considerably limits outdoor activities during the day. To enjoy the city without suffering stifling temperatures, opt for early morning (before 9am) or evening (after 6pm) outings, when the climate becomes milder.
Why visit Dubai in September?
Looking to save money on your trip to Dubai? September is the perfect time to travel to Dubai! Flight prices drop considerably during this less touristy period in the Arab Emirates. Hotel rates also drop, with reductions of up to 40% compared with the high season. Exceptional offers can even be found, including activities such as a visit to the Burj Khalifa or a desert safari.
Good news: despite Dubai's September heat, the city is perfectly equipped to offer you comfort. All shopping malls, restaurants and public transport are air-conditioned to perfection. Even in traditional neighborhoods, stores are equipped with efficient cooling systems. Streets are often landscaped with shaded areas, while hotels offer cooling pools to counteract the high temperatures during the day.
Must-see activities in Dubai
Dubai is packed with year-round attractions, even in the hottest months. In September, the city of the Arab Emirates offers a multitude of iconic sites designed to welcome you despite the high temperatures. Air-conditioned shopping malls and indoor attractions let you explore this metropolis without suffering from the heat.
Here are the activities that will help you make the most of your trip to Dubai in September:
- Shopping: explore air-conditioned malls like the Dubai Mall.
- Aquaventure: cool off in water parks such as Atlantis Aquaventure.
- Night tours: admire the city's illuminations on a dhow cruise.
- Museums: discover interesting exhibitions in air-conditioned museums.
- Shows: enjoy cinema screenings and indoor shows.
- Dinner: enjoy culinary experiences in air-conditioned restaurants.
- Desert: evening desert safari.
- Burj Khalifa: visit the Burj Khalifa in the evening.
To make the most of your stay in Dubai in September, plan your activities according to the weather. It's best to go out early in the morning or after sunset, when temperatures are more bearable. Don't forget to stay hydrated at all times, and carry a bottle of water with you wherever you go in the city.
Strolling along the Dubai estuary
Looking for a refreshing activity in Dubai in September? Abras are small, traditional wooden boats that act as water cabs on the creek. These typical boats link the Bur Dubai and Deira districts, with some 150 boats in circulation. The Abras ride allows you to enjoy a welcome sea breeze as you admire the striking contrasts between the modern city and the historic districts.
Just 1 AED per passenger for this authentic local experience! This is undoubtedly the most economical means of transport in the whole of the Emirates. The crossing takes just 5 to 7 minutes but offers a unique view of Dubai. The Abras operate practically all day long, with one line even open 24 hours a day. To escape the intense heat, we advise you to opt for an evening ride when the temperature becomes milder.
Deira's spice souk plunges you into the authentic atmosphere of the Arab Emirates in September. The colorful aisles are overflowing with stalls offering an impressive variety of spices with enchanting aromas. This traditional market offers a unique sensory experience far removed from air-conditioned shopping malls. The heat is certainly present, but the discovery of local fragrances and flavors is well worth the inconvenience.
On the way down from the Abra to Deira, you can also visit the Gold Souk and the historic Al Fahidi district. These cultural sites bear witness to Dubai's rich heritage before its meteoric rise. Traditional stores and cafés provide a refreshing stop-off during your exploration. Even in the hottest weather, these morning and evening strolls remain accessible and offer a striking contrast to the modern skyscrapers for which the city is famous.
Atlantis Aquaventure water park
Are you looking for a way to cool off during your stay in Dubai in September? Atlantis Aquaventure is the perfect solution. With over 30 slides and attractions suitable for young and old alike, it's a welcome respite from the Arab Emirates heat. Thrills await you with the Leap of Faith, a vertiginous eight-storey drop that propels you into a lagoon populated by sharks. For the more relaxed, the Lazy River stretches over 2.3 kilometers and offers a relaxing aquatic stroll.
We recommend that you take advantage of the aquarium admission included with your water park ticket. Prices vary according to age: AED 199 for an adult and AED 179 for a child aged 3 to 6. Toddlers under three enter free of charge. The park is open daily from 09:15 to 18:00, giving you plenty of time to take advantage of the air-conditioned facilities and refreshing pools to escape Dubai's high September temperatures.
Meet the dolphins at Atlantis
Looking for a refreshing and memorable activity during your trip to Dubai in September? The Atlantis dolphin snorkeling experience is a breath of fresh air from the heat of the Emirates. The swim-with-the-dolphins experience at Atlantis Dubai can be booked online via platforms such as GetYourGuide. For 30 minutes in the water, you can swim and interact with these fascinating creatures in a safe environment. The pleasantly warm water provides a welcome contrast to the scorching outdoor climate that characterizes Dubai at this time of year.
To organize this aquatic adventure, we advise you to book online at least a few days in advance. Children under 8 years of age cannot participate, and those between 8 and 12 must be accompanied by an adult. An interesting point: your ticket includes access to Aquaventure Park for the day. So, after your encounter with the dolphins, you can take advantage of the park's many attractions and extend this refreshing break in the middle of September.
Visit the Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa offers an extraordinary experience from its observation deck on the 124th floor. You'll discover a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city of Dubai and its surroundings. Strategically placed telescopes allow you to explore the cityscape in detail, including Palm Jumeirah, the Dubai Mall and even the desert dunes in the distance. This emblematic building of the Arab Emirates is particularly pleasant to visit in September, when the heat outside pushes you to take advantage of the air conditioning.
To make the most of your visit to the Burj Khalifa without waiting in long queues, book your tickets online a few days in advance. The best time to go up? Without a doubt, sunset, when the city lights up. Early morning and late evening slots are also less crowded. It's up to you whether you prefer to admire Dubai bathed in natural light or illuminated at night. In September, the milder evening temperatures make the experience even more pleasant when you leave the building.
Gastronomy Festival
When it comes to Dubai in September, the heat isn't the only thing turning up the heat - the culinary scene comes alive too! The Dubai Shopping Festival kicks off at the end of the month, transforming the city into a food-lover's paradise. During this period, you can discover special promotions at numerous restaurants and take part in interactive culinary experiences that showcase the local flavors of the Arab Emirates.
Want to sample local delicacies without the heat? Dubai is full of air-conditioned restaurants offering authentic culinary experiences. Establishments such as Al Dawaar Revolving Restaurant offer panoramic views of the city while serving traditional dishes. The Arabian Tea House Restaurant & Cafe is perfect for discovering Middle Eastern cuisine in comfortable surroundings. For those who prefer international cuisine, the shopping malls are home to restaurants of all nationalities, where you can enjoy specialities from all over the world in ideal weather conditions.
Comparison
Wondering what activities to choose for your trip to Dubai in September? It all depends on your profile and heat tolerance! Families with children will particularly appreciate the Atlantis Aquaventure water park, where they can cool off and have fun at the same time. If you're sensitive to high temperatures, you'll want to visit the Dubai Mall or the Burj Khalifa, where the air-conditioning is in full swing. As for the budget, activities vary considerably - the Abras cost just one dirham, while an experience with dolphins represents a more substantial investment. By the way, did you know that indoor attractions like IMG Worlds of Adventure are much less crowded in September than in high season?
| Activity | Price guide | Level of heat exposure |
|---|---|---|
| Burj Khalifa (At The Top) | Varies by time and floor | Minimal (air-conditioned interior) |
| Dubai Mall | Free (excluding purchases) | Minimal (air-conditioned interior) |
| Atlantis Aquaventure | 199 AED (adult) | Moderate (outdoor, but aquatic) |
| Dolphin Bay (Atlantis) | Varies according to experience | Moderate (outdoor, but aquatic) |
| Dhow cruise | Varies by company | Low (evening, sea breeze) |
| IMG Worlds of Adventure | Varies by ticket | Minimal (air-conditioned interior) |
| Abras (crossing the creek) | 1 AED | Moderate (short outdoor trips) |
| Note: Prices are indicative and may vary. We recommend checking information and booking in advance. | ||
Visiting Dubai in September allows you to take advantage of attractive offers while organizing your days according to the heat. The temperature at this time of year remains high, but the air-conditioned infrastructure and water activities guarantee a pleasant stay. Prepare your trip to the Emirates with light clothing and plan your outings early in the morning or in the evening for an optimal experience.
