Often pictured as an oasis in the middle of a dessert, it is a common misconception that Dubai should be avoided during the summer months. While the average traveller might not be prepared for the uncomfortable heat, Dubai is more than ready to accommodate and keep visitors comfortable on even the warmest of days. The city was built for it after all!
Temperatures
Summer usually starts in May and draws to a close in October, with August bearing the brunt of the heat. Daily temperatures are usually around 40 degrees Celsius and the evenings are only slightly cooler.
In South Africa, these temperatures would be unbearable but Dubai is prepared to deal with the heat. Outdoor activities offered during summer usually include water and almost all indoor spaces are fitted with air-conditioners to keep you cool and comfortable.
Indoor Activities
Indoor activities are by far the most popular during this time as almost all indoor spaces are cooled. Dubai is famous for their large and extravagant shopping malls, offering so much more than just world-class shopping experiences.
Ski Dubai is one of the top attractions and located in the Mall of Emirates. The attraction offers so much more than just a thrilling activity, as the ski lifts and surrounding chalets transports you to Europe.
You’ve likely also heard about the indoor aquarium at the Mall of Dubai, which offers a fully immersive experience. From swimming with sharks to walking through a 48 meter long tunnel, surrounded by the sea-life. This isn’t your average under-the-sea display. The aquarium is also home to the largest collection of sand tiger sharks and houses 33,000 aquatic animals.
If you are however interested in acquiring a few new wares, the outlet mall often offers the best value for South African shoppers. Here you’ll find over 240 stores carrying brands you know and love at reduced prices, as well as a food court and fun activities for children.
Other notable malls and indoor attractions worth putting on your must-see list includes the brand new Nakheel Mall. Located right in the heart of all the action, the mall is home to 300 stores and offers excellent views of the Palm Jumeira. The new Al Shindagha Museum is also a great way to learn more about Emirate history and culture. It offers visitors a glimpse back in time as it explores the origins of Dubai and the the emirate’s seafaring history.
Many theme parks also cater for the warmer months, by hosting large sections of their displays and activities indoors. The most popular of these include Legoland, IMG Worlds of Adventure and Bollywood Parks Dubai.
Outdoor Activities
Summer outdoor activities most often center around water parks to help you stay cool. This is a popular attraction for the whole family and helps keep the heat at bay.
The Legoland Water Park features over twenty rides, slides and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Duplo slides are fun for toddlers while more adventurous activities create fun for the whole family.
The Laguna Water Park at La Mer is one of the latest additions to Dubai’s vast variety of parks. It features ten rides and slides that caters to families of all ages. If you want something that offers both entertainment and insight into Arabic folklore, then The Wild Wadi Water Park located next to the iconic Burj Al Arab is the park for you.
No visit to Dubai is complete though without a stop at the iconic Aquaventure Waterpark. The park’s daring rides allows you to plunge through a see-through tube as you are surrounded by sharks and rays. Alternatively you can zipline across the whole park. The park also offers marine activities and is conveniently adjacent to Atlantic, The Palm, for a full day of fun activities.
Seasonal Events
The Dubai Summer Surprises celebration is certainly a highlight on the summer calendar! Everyone from restaurants, to bars and shops offer massive discounts during this celebration period. Visitors do not only get a chance to shop up a storm, the jam-packed events calendar also offers free activities and some popular visitor experiences are significantly discounted. On top of all that fun they are also giving away amazing prizes during the celebration period.
Transport
Dubai has an excellent public transport system consisting of Dubai Metro, taxis, buses and water taxis. This means that you never have to spend time outdoors commuting if you don’t want to. Many hotels will also offer limited shuttle services to nearby attractions, although you will have to confirm what is available with your hotel.
There are simply too many reasons to visit Dubai! Make sure you stay a little longer on your next stop-over and allow yourself to find even more reasons for your next visit.
