Everything you need to know about visiting Dubai in May
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If you are looking for a beachy getaway holiday then get set because May is the month for you in Dubai! Hot, but not summer extreme hot; plenty of activity still happening around town, Eid-al-Fitr celebrations and sea temperatures hit their sweet spot with little chance of rain – welcome to sunshine time in Dubai!
Whilst the emirate of Dubai is still very much welcoming tourists to return in 2021, there are currently restrictions in place surrounding entertainment, dining and hotel capacity. Do expect that advertised events may continue to be cancelled or postponed. Stay up to date with UAE COVID Information for travellers here.
Dubai weather in May
Day time temperatures rise significantly over the course of May. Your average daytime maximum in May is 37.8°C (100°F), but don’t be surprised if temperatures can hit as high as 43.5°C (110°F) by the end of the month. You can expect overnight lows down to 25.2°C(77°F).
Humidity is at the lowest point in May so it is a drier heat than usual, and rainfall is unlikely – though not unheard of – in May in Dubai. Dust storms may be experienced too.
Sea temperatures are not quite at their summer peaks but do significantly warm up in May making it ideal for beachgoers to still enjoy a dip in the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf. You can expect lows of 26.3°C(79.3°F) in the water through to highs of 31.2°C (86.2°F) by month-end.
You can read our complete guide to Dubai Weather in May here, as well as our suggested ideas of what to pack for Dubai in May
Dubai Special Events May 2021
May in 2021 will be dominated by the Holy Month of Ramadan, proceeded by Eid-al-Fitr celebrations mid-Month. Gone are the days when Ramadan was considered a quiet month in Dubai where nothing happened – quite the opposite Ramadan 2021 in Dubai is shaping up to be an exciting time of cultural enrichment.
- Holy Month of Ramadan – the 9th month of the Hijri calendar will fall on approximately 13 April to 12 May 2021 (the official start and end dates are determined by a moon sighting committee)
- End of Ripe Market season – the last market to be held on 1 May 2020
- Eid-al Fitr – the end of fasting is a 3-day Muslim celebration marked with prayers and celebrations from sundown 12 May 2021 (it’s not unusual for the Government to last-minute declare the whole week as a public holiday)
Will cafes and restaurants be open during the day in Dubai during Ramadan?
We are still seeking clarity as to what exactly the rules will be going forward. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, very limited restaurants and cafes were open during Ramadan 2020, offering only takeaway services.
During 2019, dining establishments were no longer being asked to apply for a license nor blackout their windows during the Holy Month. We expect this to be the case going into 2021 as local needs evolve to balance with tourism needs in the city.
We will update here accordingly when the rules for non-Muslim tourists in 2021 become clearer.
Suggested Dubai Activities in May 2021
Bearing in mind the Holy Month of Ramadan, it’s important to note that business opening hours will change at this time of year. Some shops and attractions may open earlier than usual, then close for the afternoon, reopening after Iftar (the evening breaking of the fast). Always check the details closer to the time with anything you’ve booked.
We suggest that the following activities may be a great way to spend your time in Dubai in May this year:
- Experience a traditional Iftar at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding in the city’s Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
- Take a night cruise down the Dubai canal to experience the thriving evening culture
- Explore Souk Madinat Jumeirah with its traditional Arabian design and enchanting waterways, including superb views back to the Burj Al Arab
- Take a trip up the Burj Khalifa – its a quiet month so queues are short and visibility is good
Still not sure how to fill your days? Check out our complete collection of Dubai itineraries, we have ideas to fill a few hours through to a detailed 7-day itinerary for exploring Dubai & the UAE.
Dubai with kids in May 2021
Dubai is a city burgeoning with family-friendly activities year-round. As May is getting quite hot to be outdoors unless you’re in the water why not try these ideas:
- Cool of at one of Dubai’s outdoor adventure playgrounds such as Aquaventure at Atlantis the Palm or at Wild Wadi, attached to Jumeirah Beach Hotel.
- Head out to Dubai Parks & Resorts – 4 theme parks in one location! Little ones will love Legoland Dubai while older kids will likely prefer
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:
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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our hotel or tour recommendation links.
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