Everything you need to know about visiting Dubai in March
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There really isn’t “Spring” in Dubai per se, but March is as close as it gets! You will see a quick transition from the milder days of the winter months through to long, warm days bathed with sunlight for most of the month. There’s a good reason March is often touted as the best time to visit Dubai!
You will experience pleasant weather in March to enjoy activities on the water and in the desert, and it will still be mild enough that you can spend much of the day outside without roasting.
For this reason, March tends to be one of the most action-packed months in Dubai for events around town, trying to squeeze every last minute of enjoyment out of the outdoor lifestyle in the city’s vast beaches, parks, and outdoor entertainment precincts.
Note that March 2026 coincide, in part, with the Holy Month of Ramadan (approximately February 17 to March 19 in the Gregorian calendar, depending on the sighting of the moon). Visitors should be mindful that this is a month of fasting and reflection for Muslims in the UAE, and they should behave accordingly.
Dubai Weather in March
In March, you can expect average daytime temperatures of 23.1°C/73.6°F through to 28.7°C/83.7°F by month end. The overnight low in March is, on average, 17.9°C/64°F.
Sea temperatures in March are, on average, 23.6°C/74.5°F; still cool enough, you’ll be pleased to stay somewhere with a temperature-controlled pool! There are, on average, 8 hours of sunshine, making it an ideal time for outdoor adventures.
Expect mostly long, sunny days, but it’s not unusual to experience rain showers or thunderstorms in March. We wouldn’t be packing the umbrella ‘just in case,’ but it does pay to have a rainy day plan up your sleeve – much like the hottest days of summer, these mostly revolve around planning indoor activities in Dubai.
You can read our complete guide to Dubai Weather in March here, as well as our suggested ideas of what to pack for Dubai in March – you may still want a light jacket for the evenings, and don’t forget your sunscreen and sunglasses!
Further Reading: The best times to visit Dubai: Every season explained
Dubai Special Events March 2026
Gone are the days when the city grinds to a halt during Ramadan; you will now find a modest lineup of events occurring throughout March, though many events will move to the evening once the Holy Month has commenced.
- Ramadan will likely begin on the 17th February (depending on the sighting of the moon). Very little live entertainment is usually scheduled for this period. It is courteous for visitors to respect the holy month and refrain from making too much noise during daylight hours. It is also respectful to dress (more) modestly during Ramadan and to refrain from eating and drinking in public before sunset unless you’re in place where it is expressly allowed. Check out our guide to Ramadan in Dubai for tourists.
- Ramadan is a very special time to visit the UAE. Whilst the days may be quieter, the evenings are truly magical with lantern-lit iftars (meals to break the fast) in a range of beautiful locations. Many hotels and restaurants offer elaborate buffets or set menus for iftar, which visitors are more than welcome to attend. Find out more about Iftar in Dubai here.
- As well as iftars, you’ll find a range of family and kids activities occurring all over the city when the sun sets. A venue that you really shouldn’t miss, is Dubai Expo City, which will be transformed into a traditional Emirati neighborhood with a bustling souk, traditional activities, live entertainment, and so much more.
- There will be numerous firework displays around the city on Saturday nights throughout Ramadan you can find some of the best at Dubai Festival City, Al Seef, Bluewaters, and The Beach, JBR. Each show usually starts at 10.00pm and is free to attend.
- In addition to the iftars in fancy hotels and restaurants, you can also go on a culinary adventure at the Ramadan Street Food Festival at Sheikh Hamdan Colony, Karama. Here, you will find a variety of delicious dishes from around the world. You can also catch live performances on stage and join in with arts and craft activities and fun and games in the various installations around the site.
- Eid-Al-Fitr, the much anticipated celebration the mark the end of Ramadan is likely to fall on March 19 2026 (subject to the moon sighting) and will bring with it fireworks and festivities across the city.
- The Hindu festival of Holi falls on March 4 2026. Whilst this festival is observed by many people in Dubai, public celebrations will likely be delayed until after Eid.
- For a touch of Arabian magic head to Dubai Opera on the 5th March for ‘Echoes of Time’ – the work of Ibn Arabi performed try the UAE National Orchestra.
- For something a little different, join the Megacampus Summit at the Coca-Cola Arena from 6th-7th March. The event features lectures from academy award winning director James Cameron, Magnus Carlsen – the greatest chess player of all time, and Robert Greene, bestselling author of the 48 Laws of Power.
- Alternatively on the 6th and 7th March, enjoy some irreverent comedy with Father Ted – a live theatrical performance aboard the QE2.
- Comedian Mo Gilligan will be bringing ‘The Mo you know’ to Dubai Opera on 18th March 2026 in a high energy performance.
- Wu-Tang Clan will bring nostalgic hip-hop vibes to the Coca-Cola Arena with Wu-Tang forever on the 22 March 2026.
- There will be more comedy at Dubai Opera on the 22nd and 23rd March with Max Amini sharing his razor-sharp observations and humorous cultural storytelling skills.
- Experience the magic of pianist Yuja Wang at the Dubai Opera on 26th March.
- Internationally renowned singer-songwriter Josh Groban will share his captivating voice with audiences at the Coca-Cola Arena on 27th March. Having sold more than 35 million albums worldwide, this is a performance not to be missed!
- Italian composer Andrea Vanzo will share his modern-classical melodies at the New Covent Garden Theatre, Mall of the Emirates on 27th March.
- Dubai World Cup – Horse racing is held weekly at Meydan Racecourse throughout the winter but the star of the show is the World Cup which will be held on the 28th March 2026.
- Also on March 28th head to the Coca-Cola Arena for an evening of nostalgia with pop icons A1 and Music Travel Love.
- Why not end the month at Dubai Opera with a tribute to legendary British band Queen. God Save the Queen will be belting out hit after hit in this musical extravaganza – 30th March.
- Many of Dubai’s Hindu residents will also celebrate Holi during the month of Ramadan. There will be events throughout the city including Holi Hai at the Zabeel Park Amphitheatre on 22nd March. You can find out more here.
Ramadan In Dubai In March 2026
The occurrence of Ramadan during the busy tourism month has undoubtedly raised questions in recent years for the hospitality industry in Dubai.
In the past, many businesses have significantly altered their hours over Ramadan, and restaurants closed to all but a few during the day under licensing laws.
Over the past few years, however, this landscape has significantly changed. The message is very much “business as usual” for tourism during Ramadan in Dubai, but there are a number of courtesy points you should bear in mind – we cover these in much more detail here.
To have a great Ramadan experience in March, why not try these activities:
- Visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding – this amazing foundation has grown in leaps and bounds in recent years as tourists seek to learn more about Emirati and Islamic culture during their visit. Look out for daily walking tours, cultural meals, and many additional programs throughout the year.
- Ramadan Iftar Program – run by SMCUU, experience a traditional iftar (“breaking of the fast”) in Al Fahidi Historical District during the Holy Month.
- Attend a Jumeirah Mosque visit – one of only two mosques in Dubai open to non-Muslim tourists – 10:00 am & 2:00 pm (Sat-Thu) – altered program during the Holy Month.
- See the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi – a day trip to the capital is a must to experience one of the world’s most beautiful mosques.
- See the Firing of the Cannon at Burj Park – a small hidden park near the Dubai Mall is home to the nightly firing of the cannon, which signifies the end of the daily fast, a wonderful tradition still practiced across the UAE nightly during Ramadan (In 2025 a roving cannon has been added so you can see this fabulous site in multiple locations).
- Visit Expo City Dubai for an exceptional communal iftar in the centre of the site’s iconic water feature, Ramadan markets and a special Ramadan projection show on the Al Wasl dome.
- Experience late-night dining and try a traditional Ramadan suhoor in Dubai, ambient settings, and delectable treats to enjoy throughout the Holy Month.
Suggested Dubai Activities in March 2026
March is starting to warm up, but still mild enough to be out and about in the UAE. Let’s make the most of the outdoor weather with these suggested things to do in Dubai in March:
- AquaFun on The Beach, JBR – test your agility and fitness in this giant outdoor playground off the shore of one of Dubai’s most popular beaches, The Beach.
- Explore the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve – rent a bike for one of the most unique desert riding experiences, or a local favourite is the walking track around the incredible Love Lakes for wildlife spotting and sensational sunsets.
- Do as the locals do and pack a picnic; one of the best outdoor activities for March is to head to Al Mamzar Beach Park – a huge park cum beach on the Sharjah border; it’s the perfect spot for picnicking and BBQs.
- Enjoy a night under the stars at a traditional Bedouin camp in the desert, or try an evening desert safari with dune bashing, quad biking and camel rides.
- Take a Dubai Canal Dinner Cruise through the city’s latest man-made phenomenon, the Dubai Canal, passing by the Burj Khalifa from the water beneath and the Dubai Canal Waterfall Bridge whilst enjoying a buffet dinner.
- Zipline across the Dubai Marina at speeds up to 80km/hr! Take on this thrilling city zip line through the highrises and over one of the most picturesque urban scenes below.
- Another great new height to reach is The View on the Palm, the shiny new centrepiece of Palm Jumeirah with spectacular 360-degree views over the modern side of Dubai.
- Explore the old side of Dubai; stroll through the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and the more modern addition built in old-style charm Al Seef, followed by a dhow cruise or traditional abra ride on Dubai Creek.
- Try a food tour through the city to understand the diversity in cuisine.
- Watch a Ramadan cannon firing – see the unique cultural traditions of many Muslim countries as the cannon fires to break the daily fast.
- Attend a Ramadan night market in Dubai; taste the festive flavours, listen to classical Arabian music and enjoy the community vibe of the Holy Month.
Unsure how to fill your days? Pop over to our collection of Dubai itineraries – from stopovers to 7 days we have an itinerary to suit you
Do be mindful that, especially at the end of the month, coinciding with Easter break for many countries, it will be peak tourist season in Dubai. It’s a good idea to book popular attractions in advance (places such as the Museum of the Future book out weeks in advance) and expect to pay a premium for your accommodation over this peak period.
Best Kids Activities in Dubai March 2026
- Try the Aventura Parks high ropes and tree surfing course in Mushrif Park – Dubai’s very own nature park on the city’s doorstep for an active outdoor adventure all the family will love (suitable from 6 years old) – you won’t believe you’re still in the city as your surf amongst the trees in Dubai’s very own Ghaf forest.
- Visit the original worldwide experience in Dubai at the incredible Dubai Global Village for a world travel experience – 70+ countries represented all in one spot!
- Visit Dubai Safari Park for a unique animal experience in Dubai.
- Get in before the end of the season to see Dubai Garden Glow & Dinosaur Park in Zabeel Park.
- Miracle Garden will still be open throughout March, with its incredibly picturesque walkways, topiary and stunning floral displays to excite all ages.
- Children will also enjoy the live stage adaptation of The Jungle Book running at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel Theatre from Friday 27th March to Sunday 29th March 2026.
FURTHER READING – Best of Dubai for Families – 80+ engaged activities to enjoy for all age groups
Hitting The Road – Best Dubai Day Trips in March 2026
Have you ever heard of the Oasis City of Al Ain in the United Arab Emirates? Steeped in history dating back 5,000 years and the country’s only UNESCO World Heritage Listed site, discover more about the country’s heritage in Al Ain on a day trip from Dubai, just over an hour’s drive through the desert.
- You can learn more about what to expect in Al Ain and the most significant sites here.
History buffs will also enjoy learning more about the country’s historical past at Mleiha Archaeological Centre. Situated in the neighbouring emirate of Sharjah, this UNESCO-nominated site includes Bronze Age tombs, pre-Islamic forts, and many other fascinating geological finds. There’s a fabulous new exhibition centre, plus walks to enjoy.
For more mountain adventures, head south of the city to the exclave of Hatta in the Hajar Mountains. Here you can enjoy camping and glamping experiences, mountain hikes to horseback riding, and plenty of adventure experiences through the dramatic and rugged desert mountainscape, a completely different and unexpected side of Dubai!
Check out the best things to do every month in Dubai here!
More Frequently Asked Questions About Dubai in March
Without a doubt, March is the perfect time to visit Dubai if you want to experience the best of Dubai, while it’s still mild enough to be outside during the day but cool enough that you’re not sweating constantly.
This really depends on your heat tolerance. The average daytime temperature in Dubai ranges from around 23°C/73°F to 28°C/83°F during the month. You might start to find it quite hot in the sun by month-end, but it’s nothing like the somewhat intolerable heat of the summer months in Dubai. 
This depends on who you ask! Locals will no doubt tell you it’s still a little bit chilly in the Persian Gulf waters in March, but we’re guessing if you’re coming from Europe and many colder parts of the world, the average water temperature of 23.6°C/74.5°F is probably quite appealing!
If you’re staying in a resort hotel, they will most likely have their pools still very much heated for your comfort and enjoyment in March.
It wouldn’t be unusual to experience an odd rainy day or even a thunderstorm in Dubai in March. Rainfall is traditionally very low in Dubai (around 10mm), but it does happen.
Don’t go packing your umbrella; just take cover if it does and find an indoor activity in Dubai until it passes.
Humidity in March is usually around 50%; you are approaching the least humid time of the year.
In 2025 the Holy Month will fall completely in March.
The moonsighting committee is expected to announce that Ramadan 1447 AH will commence on the Gregorian date 17 February 2026. Ramadan will fall at least partially during March until 2027.
Ramadan 2026: 17 February to 18 March
Ramadan 2027: 7 February to 8 March
While Dubai doesn’t really follow traditional seasons, March is the start of Spring in the Northern Hemisphere, and the weather heats up substantially during the month.
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 from iVenture or a Go City 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:
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