Everything you need to know about visiting Dubai in August
It’s hard to use any other adjective than hot to describe Dubai in August! It is the peak of the desert summer and the weather very much defines life in the Middle East.
That said, Dubai is a modern city built for the heat. You won’t find yourself going too far without airconditioned comfort to enjoy. You do need to plan your days carefully though to avoid being outside in the peak heat of the day.
Do note that due to COVID-19 health and safety measures, some venues may still be running at a restricted capacity to allow social distancing or events may be cancelled.
From 1 August a negative COVID-19 Test result is required to enter the UAE.
Dubai weather in August
The hottest month of the year, you can expect daily maximums in Dubai as high as 48.8c (120F), averaging around 41.5c (106.7F). There’s little reprieve from the heat overnight as temperatures only drop to an average low of 30.6c (87F). Humidity starts to pick up in August making it feel even hotter and muggier (NB look for the “feels like” temperature in your weather app to get a better gauge just how hot it is outside).
Sea temperatures are not particularly refreshing in August at a balmy 33.1c (91.6F), even temperatures over 34c in the water can be experienced in Dubai in August.
You can read our complete guide to Dubai Weather in August here, as well as our suggested ideas of what to pack for Dubai in August.
Dubai Special Events in August
It’s a quiet month for special events in August, most attention this year will be on the holy occasions of Arafat Day and Eid al Adha. This religious holiday marks the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage and the Festival of the Sacrifice. It is expected to fall in 2020 from 30 July to 2 August, marked by at least 3 days but sometimes up to a week of public holidays.
The Public Holidays in 2020 are confirmed to run from 30 July to 2 August.
There are also ongoing summer-long events the Dubai Summer Surprises, a shopping-related event with venues all over the city and Dubai Sports World, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, keeping kids and adults alike active in Dubai over the hottest month.
Suggested Dubai activities in August
We’re keeping it all indoors still in August with some favourite suggestions to try in the city:
- Catch La Perle by Dragon – the stunning stage show at Al Habtoor. It runs throughout the year but August is the perfect time to catch the show in air-conditioned comfort.
- Ski Dubai – hit the slopes indoors at Mall of the Emirates, keeping you active during the hottest months.
- Try afternoon tea at the famous Burj al Arab – it may be too hot for the stunning infinity pool but pull up a chair inside for a special treat on the 27th floor of Dubai’s “7-star” luxury jewel.
If you’d still like to enjoy the heat and get out in the sun, then we’d suggest cooling off at one of the city’s many beach clubs.
With the Kids – Dubai in August
There’s still plenty going on indoors for the little ones in August. Why not try:
- IMG Worlds of Adventure – Dubai’s largest entirely indoor theme park has re-opened and is again welcoming guests in Summer 2020. Over Eid entry is only 20AED and rides are pay ag you go.
- Jumble – Indoor Adventure Park – best for your tween to teenage group, this is the ultimate indoor challenge, expanding on the escape room concept with physical and mental challenges to solve as a team.
- Oli Oli – the indoor children’s museum has plenty to keep the younger kids active in a wonderfully chilled and safe environment.
- Dubai Mall is home to many family attractions indoors from KidZania to the VR Park, even ice skating.
You will find a detailed indoor summer guide for families here.
Check out the best things to do in every month in Dubai here!
Before you go… More important things you should know when planning a trip to Dubai
- Pop into our essential planning information page, it includes everything you need to know about getting around Dubai, a handy guide on what to pack and top tips for first-timers on the do’s and don’ts, laws and customs to be aware of.
- Check out this incredible list of 150+ places you should visit when you’re in Dubai.
- Pick up a Dubai Pass to save up to 50% on top Dubai attractions
- Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance!!!
- Discover the best areas to stay in Dubai, or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:
