Winter is truly one of the best times of the year, and for a desert oasis like Dubai, it’s especially magical.
After months of intense heat, the arrival of winter brings a breath of fresh air for residents to step outside and enjoy everything the city has to offer.
If you are on vacation, you will want to make the most of your Dubai trip during this holiday season.
The tourist season in Dubai starts in October when the city comes alive with winter festivals, outdoor adventures, and exciting experiences that you won’t want to miss.
So, read on to discover the best things to do in Dubai in winter and make the most of this spectacular season!
Pro Tip! Check out the ultimate Dubai Packing List to make sure you are ready for everything from beach days to desert adventures and city exploration during your winter getaway.
Reasons to Visit Dubai in Winter
- Perfect Weather: Enjoy pleasant temperatures perfect for various activities, including desert safaris, beach picnics, sightseeing tours, and thrilling water sports.
- Comfortable Sightseeing: Mild winter temperatures make it easy to explore sites like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Marina without the discomfort of extreme heat.
- Al Fresco Dining and Events: Winter brings many outdoor events and festivals, so you can enjoy dining outside and leisurely strolls without sweating buckets.
- Stargazing Opportunities: The clear winter skies are perfect for stargazing in the desert. Join a Dubai safari tour to enjoy the night sky away from city lights.
- Beach Bliss: The weather is just right for hanging out on Dubai’s beautiful beaches, playing beach sports, or taking a romantic walk as the sun sets.
- Golfing Season: If you enjoy golf, winter is the best season to play on Dubai’s world-class courses, where you can enjoy a round in the pleasant weather.
Weather During Winter in Dubai
Dubai in winter is a delightful time to visit due to the comfortable weather. This season lasts from December to February, with temperatures varying throughout the months:
- October: As a transition into winter, October sees maximum temperatures around 35°C (95°F), dropping to a minimum of 26°C (79°F).
- November: November cools down significantly, with maximums at 29°C (84°F) and minimums at 21°C (70°F).
- December: This month marks the beginning of winter, with maximum temperatures around 26°C (79°F) and minimums dropping to about 18°C (64°F).
- January: The coolest month, January sees maximum temperatures around 24°C (75°F) and minimums of 16°C (61°F).
- February: The temperatures start to rise slightly, with maximums reaching about 25°C (77°F) and minimums remaining around 16°C (61°F).
Dubai Temperature in Winter:
Maximum: 35°C (95°F) — October
Minimum: 16°C (61°F) — January and February
Pro Tip! To get detailed insights into Dubai’s weather patterns and what to expect throughout the year, click here!
Things to Do During Winter in Dubai
Here are the best activities and experiences that make winter in Dubai a magical time to visit:
Hit the Slopes at Ski Dubai – Yes, Real Snow in the Desert!

Get ready for a memorable experience at Ski Dubai, the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East.
Here, you can ski, snowboard, or even toboggan on real snow—yes, real snow—in the middle of the desert!
There are five levels—level 1 is for beginners who know nothing about skiing, and level 5 is chosen by professionals.
If you are not into skiing, you can enjoy other activities like snow tubing, snowball fights, and even meeting the resident penguins during interactive encounters.
Inside, it’s a refreshing -1°C (30°F), providing a cool escape from Dubai’s warmth.
Ski Dubai is the perfect spot for a day of adventure and family fun, so don’t miss out on this incredible chance to enjoy winter activities in the desert!
Location: Mall of the Emirates. Get Directions
Best Time: November to December & March to July
Highlights: Indoor Snow Park, Ski Slopes, Penguin Encounters, Alpine Lodge
Ticket Requirement: Yes | Book Your Tickets
Soar Over the Desert in a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Have you ever dreamed of floating above the stunning Dubai desert? A hot air balloon ride is your chance to make that dream come true!
You will gently lift off, gliding high above the golden dunes, and see the endless stretches of sand.
And if you are lucky, you might even spot camels and gazelles wandering below.
The tranquility of drifting through the sky is something you won’t forget.
After your flight, indulge in a delicious traditional breakfast in the desert, complete with refreshing drinks and local treats.
Location: Palm Jumeirah. Get Directions
Best Time: December to February
Highlights: Sunrise Views, Wildlife Spotting, Breakfast, Camel Ride, Panoramic Views
Ticket Requirement: Yes | Book Your Tickets
Feast Under the Stars on a Dhow Dinner Cruise

Looking for a magical winter dining experience in Dubai? A dhow dinner cruise is just what you need!
You will be gliding along the calm waters of Dubai Creek, with the city skyline sparkling in the background.
As the weather cools down, you can relax on the deck and enjoy a delicious buffet filled with both local and international dishes.
While you eat, you will be entertained by live music and traditional dance performances, adding to the festive atmosphere.
With the stars twinkling above and the city sparkling around you, a dinner cruise in Dubai is perfect for a romantic evening or a fun night out with friends and family.
Location: Rolex Twin Towers Building. Get Directions
Best Time: December to March
Highlights: Traditional Wooden Dhow, Cozy Seating, Live Entertainment, Delicious Buffet
Ticket Requirement: Yes | Book Your Tickets
Feel the Rush of Freefall with Skydiving in Dubai
If you have watched the Bollywood film Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (You Won’t Get This Life Again), then skydiving in Dubai should definitely be on your winter bucket list!
Why winter? The cooler temperatures create a more comfortable experience before and after your jump without the sweltering heat.
Skydiving in Dubai offers two thrilling options: indoor and outdoor.
Indoor skydiving is perfect for those who want to try the sport without the fear of heights.
But for those who crave a true adrenaline experience, outdoor skydiving is where the magic happens.
Imagine leaping from a plane at 13,000 feet, freefalling over the stunning Palm Jumeirah and the sparkling Arabian Gulf below. It’s an exhilarating rush like no other!
Location: Al Seyahi Street. Get Directions
Best Time: November to February
Highlights: Adrenaline Rush, Freefalling, Aerial Views, Thrill for All Levels
Ticket Requirement: Yes | Book Your Tickets
Unleash Your Inner Explorer on a Dubai Desert Safari

If summer’s scorching heat keeps you from enjoying a desert safari in Dubai, winter is the perfect time to experience this adventure!
With pleasant temperatures in the desert, you can fully embrace the magic of desert camping.
Begin your adventure with an exhilarating dune-bashing ride, racing through the golden sand dunes.
Once you have had your fill of excitement, you can relax in comfortable camps, enjoying the peaceful desert vibe.
You will also have the chance to connect with Emirati and Arab culture and enjoy lively Emirati dance performances.
Service: Pickup Available
Best Time: November to February
Highlights: Cozy Tents, Bonfire Evenings, BBQ Dinner, Stargazing, Traditional Activities
Ticket Requirement: Yes | Book Your Tickets
Get into the Holiday Spirit at the Dubai Winter Festival
If you are visiting Dubai in December, you are in for a festive treat!
The Dubai Winter Festival is the UAE’s largest holiday celebration, and it’s something you don’t want to miss.
It features everything from a traditional Christmas market to dazzling holiday-themed performances, bringing the joy of the season to life.
Kids can meet Santa, decorate cookies, or join in festive arts and crafts, while adults can enjoy live music, delicious holiday food, and seasonal drinks.
It’s also the perfect spot for shopping, with stalls offering unique gifts, crafts, and festive décor.
Location: Dubai Internet City Amphitheater. Get Directions
Best Time: December
Highlights: Christmas Market, Santa’s Grotto, Festive Food & Drinks, Family Activities
Ticket Requirement: Yes
Places to Explore During Winter in Dubai
Looking for the perfect spots to enjoy Dubai’s winter? Here are six must-visit places where you can experience the city’s best during the cooler months.
Burj Khalifa
Visiting the Burj Khalifa during winter offers a spectacular experience, with clear skies and cooler temperatures making outdoor exploration more enjoyable.
The outdoor observation decks on levels 124 and 148 are even more enjoyable.
They offer panoramic views of the city’s skyline, desert, and coastline without the heat.
The winter weather also creates ideal conditions for watching sunsets from the top, as the softer light beautifully illuminates the skyline.
Plus, the Burj Khalifa’s outdoor spaces, like the surrounding Dubai Fountain and Burj Park, are perfect for leisurely walks.
Location: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai. Get Directions
Best Time: November to March
Highlights: World’s Highest Observation Deck, Stunning Sunsets, Light & Sound Shows
Ticket Requirement: Yes | Book Your Tickets
Ferrari World
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is the world’s largest indoor theme park dedicated to the famous Italian car brand, Ferrari.
The park’s vision was to create an environment where people could experience Ferrari’s passion, excellence, and innovation.
Winter is a great time to visit, as you can enjoy family-friendly activities like go-karting and interactive exhibits without the summer heat.
You can also thrill yourself on attractions like the Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster in the world, which speeds up from 0 to 240 km/h (149 mph) in just a few seconds!
Location: Yas Island – Abu Dhabi. Get Directions
Best Time: November to February
Highlights: Formula Rossa, Driving Experience, Galleria Ferrari, Go Karting, Events
Ticket Requirement: Yes | Book Your Tickets
Suggested Readings:
- Dress Code for Tourists in Dubai
- 7 Underrated Places to Visit in Dubai
- Best Places to Experience Snow in Dubai
Dubai Parks & Resort

Dubai Parks & Resorts is a sprawling entertainment hub that combines three world-class theme parks: Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and Legoland Dubai.
It also features Riverland Dubai, a lively water park that adds even more excitement to your visit.
During winter, this resort transforms into a winter wonderland, and the pleasant temperatures make it the perfect time to explore its diverse attractions.
You can enjoy exciting rides, live performances, and special events, all in beautifully decorated spaces that capture the festive spirit.
Location: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Dubai. Get Directions
Best Time: November to February
Highlights: Formula Rossa, Driving Experience, Galleria Ferrari, Go Karting, Events
Ticket Requirement: Yes | Book Your Tickets
Palm Jumeirah
In winter, Palm Jumeirah becomes a lively hotspot with its cool, pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor fun.
You can enjoy water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing in the calm waters of the Arabian Gulf.
Beachfront restaurants offer great outdoor dining with stunning views of the Dubai skyline.
During this season, special events, festive markets, and live music at beach clubs create a lively atmosphere.
This is an ideal winter destination for relaxation and adventure, with luxurious resorts and a wide range of culinary delights.
Location: The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai. Get Directions
Best Time: October to January
Highlights: Luxury Resorts, Aquaventure Waterpark, the Boardwalk, Marina & Beaches
Ticket Requirement: Free | Read More
Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame is an architectural landmark that looks like a giant picture frame.
It mainly serves as an observatory, offering amazing views of both the old and new parts of the city.
In winter, the weather is cool, so you can take your time enjoying the incredible panoramas without the intense desert heat.
As you climb to the observation deck, you will be treated to stunning sights of the skyline, the desert, and historic neighborhoods like Al Fahidi.
The surrounding Zabeel Park adds to the experience, providing a lovely place to stroll, especially during this season when blooming flowers and green spaces create a relaxing atmosphere.
Location: Zabeel Park Jogging Track. Get Directions
Best Time: October to January
Highlights: Glass Floor, Interactive Exhibits, Evening Illumination, Zabeel Park
Ticket Requirement: Yes | Book Your Tickets
Global Village
Global Village is a vibrant cultural and entertainment destination in Dubai that brings together countries from around the world in one place.
It offers a unique experience where you can explore different cultures through pavilions representing various countries.
Each pavilion showcases traditional crafts, cuisine, performances, games, and rides.
The Global Village operates from October to April, taking advantage of Dubai’s cooler winter months.
This timing allows you to enjoy outdoor attractions, cultural experiences, and entertainment while avoiding the extreme heat.
Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. Get Directions
Best Time: October to March
Highlights: Cultural Pavilions, Live Entertainment, International Cuisine, Amusement Rides
Ticket Requirement: Yes | Book Your Tickets
FAQs
1. What is the lowest temperature in Dubai during winter?
The lowest temperature in Dubai during winter can drop to around 10°C (50°F) on rare occasions. However, such temperatures are infrequent, and most winter nights are comfortably cool.
2. How cold does Dubai get in winter?
During winter, Dubai can get as cold as 16°C (61°F) at night. While daytime temperatures are mild, evenings can be quite cool, so it’s advisable to wear a light jacket.
3. When is it winter in Dubai?
Winter in Dubai runs from late November to early March. This period is characterized by cooler temperatures and lower humidity, providing a comfortable climate for visitors.
4. What are the best outdoor activities to enjoy in Dubai during winter?
Winter offers perfect conditions for various outdoor activities, including desert safaris, beach outings, golfing, hot air balloon rides, and dhow dinner cruises.
5. Is skiing possible in Dubai during winter?
Yes! You can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Ski Dubai, the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East, which features real snow year-round.
Featured Photo by Ahmed Aldaie on Unsplash