United Arab Emirates Weather

The United Arab Emirates serves up a climate that’s all about long, sunny days and little interruption from the rain clouds. Hot, dry weather is the headline, with bright skies stretching right across the year and barely a drizzle to be found most months. No wonder it’s high on the list for winter sun seekers and summer sizzlers alike.

Coastal hotspots like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are where most holidaymakers flock, with the Persian Gulf’s warm waters never far away. If you find yourself out on the islands or further inland, don’t expect much difference - the whole country is reliably warm, just with a bit more desert flair as you head away from the coast.

Spring (March - May): Spring in the UAE is a quick trip from comfortable to properly hot. March starts off warm at 28°C, then by May you’re edging to 38°C. Rainfall drops off quickly, and the sea heats up from 23°C to 29°C, so you’ll want to spend plenty of time in the water. Expect lots of sunshine - up to 11 hours a day by May.

Summer (June - August): Summer here isn’t shy: June through August sees daytime temperatures soar to 40-42°C, with the sea sitting at a balmy 32-34°C. Rain is basically a rumour, and sunshine is a given. Humidity can add a bit of weight to the air, so it’s all about shade, chilled drinks, and top-tier pool lounging.

Autumn (September - November): September stays seriously hot at 39°C, only easing down to 31°C by November. The sea keeps its warmth, from 33°C to 28°C, and rain barely shows its face. Sunshine remains strong, so you’re still in proper beach mode well into autumn, with plenty of daylight left for exploring or just lazing about.

Winter (December - February): Winter here feels more like a British summer. Daytime temperatures sit between 24-26°C, and the sea stays warm at 21-22°C. Rainfall is at its highest - though that only means up to 25mm in February, so hardly a downpour. It’s a lush time for outdoor adventures without breaking a sweat.

For a classic beach holiday, the best time to visit the UAE is from November to April. You’ll get warm, pleasant air temperatures between 24-31°C, the sea perfect for swimming at 21-28°C, and sunshine on tap. It’s the sweet spot for relaxing on the sand without the full-on summer heat. If you’re after a scorcher and don’t mind the temperature dialled up to max, May to September brings serious heat and almost no rain, but most holidaymakers will find the cooler months a more comfortable fit for holibobs. Coastal resorts and islands alike all deliver on sunshine and warm sea, so you’re set wherever you land.