First of all, there’s never a bad time to visit Dubai. The emirate is a year-round destination thanks to its warm and sunny climate, however most people tend to visit during the peak seasons of autumn and spring.
Yet many people don’t realise the advantages of visiting during off-peak seasons, such as Ramadan and in the summer months of June, July and August.
Let’s talk about why you should consider visiting Dubai during these seasons.
Ramadan is a month-long period of fasting, reflection and prayer for those in the Islamic faith. This year, the Holy Month falls approximately between March 11 and April 9, during which time Muslims will be expected not to eat or drink during daylight hours.
In the Middle East, Ramadan is one of the most important times of year and so being in Dubai at this time is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and learn firsthand about the traditional customs and behaviours during Ramadan, leaving you with a greater understanding of the city’s local culture. There is an energising atmosphere of spirituality during this time and even if you do not practice this faith, you are invited to spend some quiet moments of contemplation.
At sunset, the end of the day’s fast is announced by cannons being fired throughout the city, and residents break their fast with the iftar meal. There are many hotels which organise delicious iftar offerings with a cornucopia of traditional Middle Eastern and international dishes. The delicious food and cheerful atmosphere of breaking fast is a unique and enriching experience for all involved. Also, at the end of Ramadan is Eid ul-Fitr, so if you’re lucky enough to be here for these joyous celebrations, you are in for a treat!
In addition to joining in with the traditional customs and celebrations, Ramadan is an opportune time to visit Dubai when it’s not as busy, making it the perfect time to explore. And if you’re into shopping (you can’t come here and not indulge yourself in some retail therapy), there are discounts to be had in the malls, particularly in the build up to Eid ul-Fitr
While Dubai's summer months (June to August) are known for their high temperatures, visiting during this season can offer some unique advantages, especially if you're looking for an affordable luxury experience.
Between June and August is when some seriously luxury hotels become affordable. For anyone travelling on a budget, summer is when you can experience more for less, so if you fancy staying in one of Dubai’s top hotels, then summer could be just the time to do it. The same goes for gourmet restaurants and luxury spas which offer the same incredible flavours and feelings all year round but at a more affordable price.
So, now we know that your next summer holiday could entail staying at the most luxurious hotels, eating at the finest restaurants and enjoying massages at the most lavish spas, what else does Dubai offer in summer? Indeed it comes as no surprise that Dubai in the summer can get very hot - and while for some sun worshippers this is an enviable climate, most choose to avoid being outside during the hottest parts of the day. However, it is for this reason that Dubai is as much about the entertainment you can find indoors as it is about beautiful beaches and water parks.
Can we interest you in exploring the world’s deepest swimming pool for diving, Deep Dive Dubai? Dive 60 metres deep into a sunken underwater city where state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems have been fitted inside the pool to create different atmospheres. Only in Dubai would you be able to play foosball under water! Of course if you’re not satisfied with scuba diving in an underwater city you can always top up the adrenaline at an indoor theme park such IMG World of Adventure or by hitting the slopes at Ski Dubai, a snow-filled wonderland where you can ski, snowboard and even meet some penguins!
Some of Dubai’s best cultural attractions and sights are best visited during summer when the crowds have dissipated – have your mind blown at the Museum of the Future or head to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.
And finally, Dubai is one of the best locations in the world for shopping; world-class shopping malls make for entire days out. Choose to indulge in the intoxication of vacillating between luxury stores and highly-rated restaurants, and when you finally feel satiated you can check out the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo!