Everything you need to know about visiting Dubai in September
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September is the month that can catch most visitors off guard regarding the weather and what to expect in Dubai.
Dubai remains incredibly hot in September. Whilst the temperature might drop slightly off August summer peaks, the humidity remains, and many will say September actually feels hotter.
Schools are back in locally, though, meaning much life and activity returns to the city. Many social events start to fire back up, and it can be less crowded than August with fewer stopover passengers through DXB.
Make no mistake, it’s still not sunbathing weather throughout the middle of the day, but you can still pick up a September bargain trip in the sun and have a lot of fun in September.
COVID measures in Dubai are now limited to wearing a mask indoors. If you are crossing to Abu Dhabi Emirate, please be aware of the “Al Hosn Green Pass” requirements.
Dubai Weather in September
You can expect average daytime highs up to 39.2°C (102.5°F), but extreme days can still reach 45.1°C (113.2°F). The daytime average temperature in September is 33°C (91.4°F). The “feels like” temperature (which takes into account humidity and wind chill) is usually much higher.
Water temperatures remain incredibly warm throughout the month, expect an average sea temperature of 32.6°C (90.7°F) – you will still want a resort pool with a chiller to enjoy a splash in Dubai in September!
You can read our complete guide to Dubai Weather in September here and our suggested ideas of what to pack for Dubai in September.
Dubai Special Events in September 2022
- Saudi National Day – recognising their neighbour and ally, there are always lots of colourful celebrations around town, including the lighting of the Burj Khalifa for Saudi National Day on September 23.
- Bollywood-lovers, look out for Sonu Nigam performing live at Coca-Cola Arena on 10 September
- Chase the city lights with the Super Sports Night Run series, returning on 21 September 2022 (further night runs are held in November, January and April)
- See the program of events at Dubai Opera – from Romeo & Juliet to La Traviata and Footloose the musical, there’s always a reason to get dressed up and enjoy Downtown Dubai.
Suggested Dubai Activities in September
You can keep playing tourist around Dubai, even in the hottest months, with many attractions indoors and air-conditioned. It might still be a little uncomfortably hot for the beach or desert, but look out for these attractions.
- Visit the recently opened Museum of the Future – not just a spectacular building an incredible insight to society’s future
- The Dubai Frame – get a birds-eye view of how old meets new in this sensational Dubai attraction. Literally a giant frame, you ascend 48 floors above the city in a glass elevator, then walk the see-through glass floor if you dare! To one side, the old city of Deira and onwards to Sharjah; on the other, superb views of Downtown and the Burj Khalifa.
- Speaking of heights, how would you feel taking a glass slide over Downtown Dubai? Test your nerves at Sky View Observatory
- On a luxury yacht, cruise with airconditioned comfort around the Dubai Marina at night.
- Treat yourself to an indulgent spa day during the off-peak season at a luxury resort.
- Try the record-breaking Deep Dive Dubai – the deepest indoor pool in the world where you can scuba diving lessons.
- Check out the stage show spectacular La Perle at Al Habtoor City.
- Check out the city’s fun cafe scene with one of these incredible breakfasts.
Dubai Family Activities in September
With the little ones locally back to school from the end of August, September is a much quieter month at many of the city’s family attractions.
We would argue it’s still a little too hot outside to indulge in the famous waterparks, but you still might find some cooling water fun in the early evenings:
Dubai Day Trips in September
Whilst it is still quite hot for getting out and about, grab yourself an airconditioned set of wheels and consider these day trips within easy driving distance of Dubai:
- Neighbouring Abu Dhabi has plenty of indoor cultural attractions that should be on any UAE visitors’ wish list – think the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Watan – the Presidential Palace, and partially inside, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
- If you’re more of a theme park fan, head to Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island – Ferrari World and Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi are both entirely indoor theme parks.
- Adrenaline junkies will be delighted to know that Hatta Wadi Hub in the Dubai mountains will be opening early this year, with the new winter season commencing from Thursday, September 15. Hatta in the mountains of Dubai offers activities ranging from archery and axe-throwing to paragliding and horse riding. This year an adventure ropes course has been added
- Stay at incredible glamping locations in Hatta for the full outdoor eco experience (just remember plenty of sunshine and hydration!!)
More Frequently Asked Questions about Dubai in September
This depends a little on your tolerance for heat! Temperatures in Dubai in September still regularly exceed 40°C, and humidity can be high, so it’s still a little hot for most outdoor activities. Not all seasonal events have returned post-summer, however, tourist numbers tend to be at their lowest, and it’s the best time to bag a bargain without the crowds.
Sunset in December is 6:38 PM at the start of the month changing to 6:06 PM by the end of September.
As it is still very hot in Dubai in September, you should dress appropriately for the weather, while observing the usual dress code rules in Dubai for cultural respect. Loose cotton and linen clothing works great in the heat.
As a general rule of thumb, shoulders and knees should be covered for men and women when out in public. You can find our complete Dubai packing list here.
Before you go… More important things you should know when planning a trip to Dubai
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