Planning a trip to Dubai in July often raises concerns about extreme summer temperatures. Dubai's July weather can seem daunting, with its daily 40°C and high humidity.
At first glance, not necessarily the best time to visit Dubai. Yet it offers little-known advantages, such as lower hotel rates and fewer crowds at the city's air-conditioned attractions.
Dubai weather and temperatures in July
Extreme temperatures in midsummer
The heat in Dubai in July is truly impressive, with average temperatures hovering around 37°C.
Prepare yourself for a truly scorching climate during your stay in this city in the United Arab Emirates. Thermometers generally read between 34°C and 40°C on a daily basis, with no real respite. By 9 a.m., the temperature has already reached 38°C, rising to 40°C by midday and remaining at this level for several hours. Even the evening brings only relative relief, with 36°C at 6pm and 34°C at midnight.
The impact of heat on your stay
Let's face it, staying more than a few minutes in direct sunlight in Dubai in July is a challenge, especially between 11am and 3pm. Fortunately, the city is entirely designed to escape this furnace, with air-conditioned spaces everywhere.
Month-by-month weather in Dubai (average temperatures and rainfall)
| Month | Average temperature (°C) | Precipitation (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 23 | 10 |
| February | 24 | Low |
| March | 26.5 | Very low |
| April | 26.5 | Very low |
| May | 30 | Virtually nil |
| July | 37 (max) | Null |
| August | 36 | Null |
| December | 22 | 22 |
Note: July and August in Dubai are quite logically the hottest months of the year in Dubai.
To enjoy your trip to Dubai in July without suffering, a few precautions are essential. Make sure you always have full sun protection (sunglasses, hat, high factor cream) and keep a bottle of water with you. Plan your days wisely, reserving outdoor activities for the early morning or evening, and staying indoors during the hottest hours.
Advantages and disadvantages of visiting Dubai in July
The benefits of a trip to Dubai in summer
Dubai in July has a number of advantages that can tip the balance in the heat. The city is considerably de-cluttered from the usual tourist masses, so you can enjoy the attractions with less of a wait.
Prices are one of the main attractions of a summer holiday in the United Arab Emirates. Luxury hotels offer far more affordable rates than in high season, often with room upgrades on offer. Air fares also drop significantly, saving on the overall travel budget. What's more, the annual Dubai Summer Surprises shopping festival is in full swing, with impressive sales in all the city's shopping malls.
The challenges of extreme heat
The heat is undoubtedly the main challenge of a visit to Dubai in July.
Temperatures regularly exceed 40°C during the day, with humidity levels as high as 90%, creating a particularly stifling atmosphere. Outdoor activities become virtually impossible between 11am and 3pm, severely limiting exploration of traditional souks or iconic monuments such as the Burj Khalifa. The heat can also affect your overall energy, even with good hydration, and make walking very uncomfortable, even over short distances.
Tips for organizing your trip
To enjoy Dubai to the full despite the summer weather, careful planning is essential.
Here's a list of essentials for a trip to Dubai in July.
- Light clothing: Choose loose-fitting, breathable clothing.
- Sun protection: Bring sun cream, hat and sunglasses.
- Hydration: Think of a reusable water bottle.
- Adapter: Check the type of electrical outlet.
Adapt your daily rhythm to the climate, preferring morning outings before 10 a.m. and evening activities after 6 p.m. when the sun is less intense. For must-see sites such as the desert, opt for sunset excursions rather than daytime excursions. Plan a rest day every other day to recuperate in the cool of your air-conditioned hotel.
Budget and financial considerations
Thefinancial aspect is a strong argument for choosing July as the travel period to Dubai.
Savings in the low season are substantial, with reductions of up to 50% on accommodation compared to the winter months. 5-star resorts offer particularly attractive rates, often accompanied by additional benefits such as complimentary breakfasts or free spa access. Tourist attractions are also reducing their entrance fees, and many restaurants are offering special "summer deal" formulas with very attractive fixed-price menus.
Indoor activities in Dubai in July
Air-conditioned shopping malls
Faced with Dubai's scorching July weather, shopping malls become much more than just places to shop - they become veritable havens of coolness where you can spend entire days without even feeling the heat outside. The malls in this city in the Arab Emirates are not just shopping arcades, but gigantic leisure complexes where activities and entertainment abound under perfect air-conditioning. When the thermometer reads an average of 40°C outside, these temples to consumerism become the best allies of travellers in search of coolness.
There's no shortage of surprising attractions in Dubai's shopping malls. At the Dubai Mall, you can admire one of the world's largest aquariums with its underwater tunnel, or slide on the Olympic skating rink, while children have fun in the miniature city of KidZania. At the Mall of the Emirates, the incredible Ski Dubai lets you ski on real snow-covered slopes, while the desert burns just a few meters away. These unusual activities are all part of the unique experience Dubai has to offer, even in the hottest month of the year.
Museums and cultural attractions
For culture lovers, Dubai offers several air-conditioned museums to enrich your stay while escaping the July heat. The Museum of the Future is open every day and presents captivating exhibitions on technological innovations.
| Attraction | Opening hours (July) |
|---|---|
| Museum of the Future | Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (last admission at 7:00 p.m.) |
| Louvre Abu Dhabi | Open every day until 10pm |
| Note: It is advisable to check specific times before your visit, as they may vary. | |
Even in the height of summer, Dubai's cultural wealth remains accessible thanks to these air-conditioned spaces. Al Fahidi Old Town offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and heritage of the Emirates, with its restored traditional buildings. Contemporary art galleries present works by local and international artists in a fresh environment. To discover authentic Emirati culture, you can take part in traditional tea ceremonies organized in several of the city's cultural centers.
Gastronomic experiences
Gastronomy is an ideal way to discover the flavours of Dubai.
- Restaurants with a view of the Burj Khalifa, offering special lunch menus in summer
- Luxury brunches in 5-star hotels, often at reduced prices in July
- Traditional Arabian air-conditioned cafés, perfect for enjoying spiced coffee
- Culinary workshops to learn how to cook local Emirati specialities
Many restaurants in Dubai offer special deals during the summer months to attract customers. Luxury hotels often organize themed buffets at reduced prices, while some establishments extend their happy hours. In July, the city sometimes hosts gastronomic events as part of Dubai Summer Surprises, with guest chefs and special menus. Perfect air-conditioning means you can enjoy these culinary experiences without even thinking about the temperature outside.
Indoor theme parks
Indoor amusement parks are perfect for keeping the whole family entertained away from the intense July heat.
IMG Worlds of Adventure remains open throughout the summer, offering attractions for all ages. Children will love the themed areas dedicated to cartoon characters, while adults can enjoy the thrilling roller coasters. The Hub Zero park offers awe-inspiring virtual reality experiences in a perfectly air-conditioned environment. VR Park at Dubai Mall offers immersive simulations that will make you completely forget the desert heat. Prices are often lower in July, with family packages and reduced admission prices to encourage visits during this less crowded period.
Outdoor activities adapted to the heat
Refreshing water activities
Despite the heat in Dubai in July, a variety of aquatic activities allow you to enjoy the great outdoors while cooling off.
Water parks are your best allies during this hot period in Dubai. Atlantis Aquaventure, the world's largest water park, offers a multitude of attractions for the whole family. For parents with children aged 2 to 12, the Legoland Dubai water park is an excellent alternative, with its shaded areas and attractions adapted to younger children. With sea temperatures in excess of 30 degrees in July, Dubai's beaches remain accessible, but prefer morning or late afternoon sessions to avoid the intensity of the sun.
Evening tours and activities
As night-time temperatures in Dubai in July become milder, evening activities are an excellent alternative for exploring the city. From 6 p.m. onwards, the sun loses its intensity, allowing you to go out more comfortably.
Several attractions remain open in the evening, including the Miniland night show at Legoland Dubai, where you can admire an entire Lego city beautifully illuminated. Cruises on the marina also offer the opportunity to admire the sunset over the city's iconic skyscrapers in a cooler setting. The milder evening temperatures mean that you can take full advantage of the outdoor facilities without suffering from the oppressive heat that characterizes Dubai's climate in July.
Adapted desert safari
Excursions to the Dubai desert are possible even in July, as operators adapt their schedules to avoid the hottest hours.
Desert safaris in July are usually scheduled for late afternoon or early evening to avoid exposure to the scorching sun. Desert camps offer air-conditioned facilities such as air-conditioned tents where you can enjoy a traditional meal while taking in cultural performances. Organizers also provide abundant water and shaded areas to ensure the comfort and safety of visitors during this period when the desert heat reaches its peak.
Observation of emblematic monuments
To admire the Burj Khalifa and other Dubai landmarks in July, it's best to opt for evening visits when the heat becomes bearable.
Dubai's iconic landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa are particularly impressive when illuminated at nightfall, offering spectacular photographic opportunities without having to brave the daytime heat. To make the most of your time on outdoor visits, plan an itinerary that minimizes travel between sites and include breaks in nearby air-conditioned spaces. Many tourist sites offer fast-access tickets, so you can considerably reduce the time you spend waiting outside, and save your energy during this trying period.
Practical tips for travelling to Dubai in July
Dressing for the heat
To cope with Dubai's July weather, choose loose-fitting, lightweight cotton or linen clothing that lets your skin breathe. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect you from the sun, which is particularly intense at this time of year. You'll also need to pack a few extra items of clothing for air-conditioned areas, where the difference in temperature can be striking.
Even in midsummer, Dubai remains a destination where certain standards of dress must be respected for the sake of local culture. For women, light pants or long skirts are ideal for staying comfortable and looking proper at the same time. Men can wear decent shorts and T-shirts, but avoid tank tops in public places. When visiting mosques, make sure you wear something that covers your shoulders and knees - a light shawl may come in handy.
Hydration and sun protection
At the height of summer in Dubai, drinking plenty of water is not an option but an absolute necessity. With temperatures in excess of 40°C, it's advisable to consume at least 3 liters of water a day to avoid dehydration.
Sunscreen is your best ally in the Emirates sun. Generously apply SPF 50+ sunscreen every two hours, even if you're only outside for a short time. Heatstroke is a real risk in Dubai in July - watch out for symptoms such as headaches, dizziness or nausea. Children and the elderly are more vulnerable to the heat, so make sure they stay well hydrated and limit their exposure to direct sunlight.
Travel planning
To get around the city comfortably despite the heat, Dubai's air-conditioned metro is undoubtedly your best ally.
Cabs are plentiful and offer a convenient alternative for getting around quickly without breaking a sweat. Plan your activities to minimize waiting time outdoors, and give preference to early morning or post-sunset travel. Some hotels also offer shuttle services to the main attractions, which can be a considerable advantage when the thermometer goes haywire.
Specific health precautions
Your medical kit for Dubai in July must include medicines to prevent heatstroke and dehydration.
If you suffer from a particular medical condition, consult your doctor before travelling, as extreme heat can exacerbate certain health problems. Elderly people should avoid all outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is at its zenith. In the event of heat-related discomfort, seek a cool place immediately, drink water and, if symptoms persist, don't hesitate to seek medical attention - Dubai has excellent medical facilities available to tourists.
Dubai in July, a possible but adaptable trip
Visiting Dubai in July certainly requires a great deal of preparation, but it' s perfectly feasible if you like bargains and uncrowded attractions. It's the perfect time of year for thrifty travellers and indoor activity enthusiasts who don't mind adapting their schedule to the weather.
To make the most of your stay, plan your days with a focus on air-conditioned activities during the hottest hours. Alternate between luxurious shopping malls and museums during the day, then take advantage of the cooler evenings to explore the city's outdoors. Don't forget to stay hydrated and wear light clothing suited to Dubai's July climate.
If, despite all this advice, you're worried about the summer heat in the Emirates, you should know that the period from October to April offers a much more pleasant climate. Temperatures oscillate between 20°C and 30°C, making outdoor activities much more enjoyable. For those who absolutely must travel in summer but fear extreme temperatures, destinations such as Oman or the Maldives offer interesting alternatives just a few hours' flight away.
Yes, the weather in Dubai in July is extreme, but with the right adjustments, your trip can be a success. Enjoy air-conditioned indoor attractions during the day and night-time activities when the temperature drops. If you're worried about the heat, consider a stay between October and April for a more comfortable experience.
