Spending Winter in Dubai: The Ultimate Travel Guide
Ever heard of snow in Dubai’s desert? Believe us or not, it’s a thing! Swing by Ski Dubai, and you’ll step into a winter paradise, whether or not it’s scorching outside.
But how is this possible? Inside the Mall of the Emirates, there’s this cool ski slope where they crank up a snow-making machine, chilling the place to -2°C! You can hit the slopes indoors—how cool is that?
Even if there’s no real snow in the city, you can still feel the cool breeze during the winter in Dubai. Check out our chill handy guide below!
What is winter in Dubai like?
Winter in Dubai is like finding the sweet spot between warmth and chill. Days are a comfy 25°C, perfect for outdoor fun, while nights cool down to around 12 to 15°C near the coast and 5°C in the desert.
Plus, you might even catch a sprinkle of rain in February for that extra cozy vibe!
Best Time to Go
The best time to go for winter in Dubai is from November to April. But if you want to dodge sandstorms and rain, we think it’s smart to visit from December to March.
What to Do in Dubai during Winter
Go to Dubai’s Highest Point at the Burj Khalifa
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Website: http://www.burjkhalifa.ae/
Address: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai
Contact Details: 800 Emaar (36227)
Fees: From AED 150
Dubai’s winter magic hits its peak at the Burj Khalifa, the tallest skyscraper globally, standing proud at 829.8 meters. The iconic building’s 122nd floor is where you can get the ultimate bird’s-eye view of the city’s shimmering landscape during the cool season.
Once you’re up there, get ready to be wowed. For us, the panoramic view from the observation deck feels like you’re on top of the world. Just note to catch the best sunset between 4 and 6 pm—it’s pure winter magic!
Apart from that, we love that there are a bunch of top-notch shopping spots and entertainment galore nearby to keep you busy afterward. From high-end stores to gourmet delights, we think there’s something to tickle every fancy.
Set off on Your Desert Safari Exploration
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Website: https://www.desert-safari-dxb.com/
Fees: From AED 99
The city’s winter vibe is all about diving into thrilling adventures in the vast Arabian Desert. Spread across 119 hectares, this Dubai wildlife sanctuary is an exciting winter adventure as it’s home to over 3,000 animals worldwide.
From fascinating rhino feedings to captivating birds of prey shows, we consider it a wild journey into the animal kingdom. You’ll get your heart pumping as you conquer the red dunes! Later, you can dig into a delicious BBQ dinner under the twinkling stars.
But the real showstopper for us is the live belly dance performances that add rhythm and charm to the desert breeze. Dance the night away and warm yourself up!
Explore the Wonders of the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
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Website: https://www.thedubaiaquarium.com/
Address: Dubai Mall – Downtown Dubai – Dubai
Contact Details: 800 38224 6255, [email protected]
Fees: From AED 199
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo can amp up your Dubai winter getaway. Imagine 33,000 aquatic pals chilling in one epic tank—sharks, rays, and a whole squad of underwater creatures are just waiting to meet you!
And here’s the kicker. The way we see it, the underwater zoo is like VIP access to the ocean’s A-listers. From elegant seahorses to adorable clownfish, we feel it’s a marine party you don’t want to miss.
Strong enough to brave the cool waters? We find it incredible that you can also dive into the action with unique underwater experiences like shark diving and cage snorkeling. This makes for some memorable, up-close encounters with these sea superstars!
Sail Away on a Dhow Cruise
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Website: https://www.dhow-cruise.com/
Fees: From AED 60
Cruising the waters in winter is a must, especially on a dhow (traditional vessel) cruise along Dubai Creek. Imagine you and the gentle rock of the wooden boat under the city’s bridges—the view is stunning, and the vibe is super romantic, especially for dates!
Beyond the cruises, we like that Dubai Marina offers sightseeing tours and fancy dinner cruises. And if you’re feeling extra, why not rent a private yacht and sail off with your pals? You can peacefully soak up the sun or dance under the stars.
For thrill-seekers, we say the Musandam Day Trip and Dhow Cruise from Dubai are hidden gems you should consider. You can cruise along rugged coastlines, snorkel on islands, and take a scenic drive through the peninsula. Leave all your worries behind!
Marvel at the Festive Glow of JBR Beach’s Christmas Lights
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Being at JBR Beach in Dubai during the winter is like stepping into a holiday movie. The beachfront promenade is lit like a Christmas tree, with twinkling lights everywhere. Here, you can walk along the shore, feel the breeze, and embrace the festive vibes.
But let’s talk about the main event: the Christmas lights. In our book, they’re not messing around. Think giant baubles, towering trees, and enough sparkle to make even the Grinch crack a smile! For us, this is Instagram gold!
The best part for us is the buffet of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Burgers, sushi, smoothies—you name it, they’ve got it. At the end of your trip, both your eyes and tummy will likely be satisfied.
Where to Eat in Dubai during Winter
Amazónico
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Website: http://www.amazonicorestaurant.com/
Address: DIFC Pavilion – Dubai
Contact Details: 04 571 3999, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Amazónico brings South American flavors to Dubai’s city center. For us, the venue’s lush greenery sets the scene well. Whether you’re chilling in the lounge, soaking up vibes on the rooftop terrace, or dining among foliage, tropical charm fills every nook.
As for the grub, we recommend the atún picante (spicy tuna) and the inventive sea urchin guacamole. If you’re not feeling like getting seafood, meat lovers can also relish succulent beef cuts like tenderloin and Brazilian-style grilled rump steak.
We love the sides like grilled sweet potatoes and chipotle butter corn too. Plus, there are cocktails crafted to whisk you through Latin America! Why not sip on these refreshing drinks while soaking in the cool views from the rooftop?
Basko
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Website: https://www.baskorestaurant.com/
Address: Basko Opus Tower – Ground Floor – Al A’amal St – Business Bay – Dubai
Contact Details: 04 395 0411, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Tucked in the vibrant Business Bay, Basko shines as a crowd-favorite outdoor dining spot flaunting the Burj Khalifa views. We like the trendy interiors and colorful cocktails like the Orange Serenade can make your winter feel less gloomy.
You’ll immediately soak in the breathtaking skyline as you step onto the terrace. Here, we suggest going for flavorful dishes like pappardelle (wide and flat pasta) shrimp, lobster fregola (Sardinian pasta), or sea bass ceviche, each a culinary delight.
But don’t skip dessert either! We reckon the chocolate biscuit cake or the lemon meringue tart can balance out the other flavors you’ve just tried.
Belcanto
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Website: http://www.belcantorest.com/
Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai
Contact Details: 04 456 0936, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Belcanto offers a serene retreat with its fancy garden setting in Dubai. With stunning views of the Burj Khalifa, we feel the ambiance seamlessly blends modernity with nature’s charm.
From the savory risotto ai funghi (mushroom risotto) to the tasty carré di agnello (lamb rack), we’re glad there’s something for all. The bar bites menu, with the beef cecina ham (cured meat) and bluefin tuna tartare (raw), also complements the ambiance well.
The specialty mixed drinks are a hit for us too, though note that they can be pricey. Some fan favorites we like are the Zacapa coconut daiquiri (rum) and the Timo (thyme) cooler.
February 30
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Website: https://february30dubai.com/
Address: West Beach, Palm – Jumeirah – Dubai
Contact Details: 04 244 7200, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Located on Palm West Beach, February 30 is a culinary hotspot blending Med and Japanese flavors by Chef Reif Othman. Think wooden furniture, red beach umbrellas, and swaying palms for that breezy beach vibe.
As the sun dips, you can dive into their fusion delights—sushi, tacos, and Italian classics—pleasing every palate. Later, you can wash it down with crafted cocktails or a crisp glass of grapes.
Of course, we noticed the fun selection of desserts too. We dig the banoffee lotus soufflé and the pistachio praline chocolate fondant. But if you can’t decide which one to try, we’re happy there’s also a deluxe platter for you and your buddies!
Lucky Fish
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Address: Palm Jumeirah – The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai
Contact Details: 04 569 3447, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Another cool winter spot is Lucky Fish. It exudes Mediterranean vibes with a hint of seaside allure in Dubai. We think this restaurant has a relaxed ambiance with weather-beaten decor that suits the beachside locale.
Fresh seafood takes the spotlight for us here, with must-tries like the cold seafood towers, veal Milanese, and king crab spaghetti stealing the show. We believe its fusion of Italian, French, and Spanish flavors ensures something even for picky eaters.
And don’t forget to wrap up your meal with the dessert highlight, the Les Perles! It’s made of white chocolate pearls with citrus fruits and salt. With that great blend of sweet and tangy, we think it’s no wonder that the regulars are hooked.
Where to Shop in Dubai during Winter
City Walk
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Website: https://www.citywalk.ae/
Address: Al Safa St – Al Wasl – Dubai
Contact Details: +971 45905090, [email protected]
City Walk buzzes with shopping and leisure options in Dubai. Winter adds a cozy charm here too, with streets twinkling under festive lights. With over 140 spots from posh fashion stores to quirky eateries, you won’t run out of options!
We appreciate that this indoor-outdoor haven is flooded with sunlight—even when it’s cool out there! Get some sun while you dive into a mix of global fashion, accessories, and homeware. Notable ones include Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, and Ralph Lauren.
But don’t miss local gems like the abaya shop Toushih and perfume store Ramasat! Whether it’s fine jewelry, unique fragrances, books, or other souvenirs and gifts, we’re pretty sure this shopping spot has it all.
Dubai Gold Souk
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Address: Deira – Al Ras – Dubai
Tucked away in Deira’s bustling commercial district, Dubai Gold Souk lures shoppers with its dazzling displays from more than 380 retailers. For us, it’s a must-visit for those craving a touch of luxury during the winter months.
Winter in Dubai means cooler temperatures, which we think makes it the perfect time to explore the souk’s winding alleys. Lose yourself in the glimmer of gold, silver, diamonds, and watches without the sweltering heat of summer.
But what makes the Gold Souk special for us is that it caters to every taste and budget. From bespoke creations to timeless classics, you’re all set whether you want some retail therapy or actively hunting for gifts.
Alserkal Avenue
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Website: https://alserkal.online/
Address: 17th St – Al Quoz – Al Quoz Industrial Area 1 – Dubai
Contact Details: 04 333 3464, [email protected]
Alserkal Avenue is another hotspot for winter shopping vibes. With its maze of galleries, it’s a cool place to explore during winter. We’re stoked that you’ll stumble upon some cool art and maybe even snag a masterpiece straight from the artist!
But it’s not just about art. Think Asian treats at 1004 Gourmet and swanky leather goods at Nappa Dori. Oh, and don’t miss The Edit, where fashion meets art in the most stylish way possible.
Plus, we love that there’s The Flip Side for vinyl lovers and Zerzura Rare Books for those who want to get lost in a good read.
Ripe Market
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Website: http://www.ripemarketme.com/
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al Sufouh – Al Sufouh 1 – Dubai
Contact Details: 04 315 7000, [email protected]
Dubai’s Ripe Market is where the winter magic happens! It has vibrant stalls, fresh produce, and cool crafts against the backdrop of Police Academy Park and Times Square Center.
Forget the usual shopping grind. We think the market is all about local flair and sustainable vibes. From organic goodies to handcrafted treasures, there’s something unique at every turn. It’s also got workshops, live tunes, and even fitness classes!
Ibn Battuta Mall
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Website: https://www.ibnbattutamall.com/en
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Jebel Ali Village – Dubai
Contact Details: 800 6254335, [email protected]
Feel like shopping while traveling? Winter shopping at Ibn Battuta Mall is like a global adventure. Named after the famous explorer, Ibn Battuta, this mall takes you on a journey through themed courts inspired by his travels.
The mall boasts a wide range of stores, from popular brands like Zara and Forever 21 to unique boutiques offering one-of-a-kind finds. Whether you’re on the hunt for cozy winter clothes or searching for the perfect souvenir, we believe you’ll find it here.
In our opinion, the themed courts make shopping exciting—they whisk you away to different countries! From sipping coffee under the Persia Court’s dome to strolling through the Andalusia Court, we feel going here would be memorable for sure.
Where to Stay in Dubai During Winter
XVA Art Hotel
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Website: http://www.xvahotel.com/
Address: 777X+JXM – Al Fahidi St, Bur Dubai – Al Fahidi Neighborhood (formerly Bastakiya), Near Dubai Museum – Dubai
Contact Details: +971 4 353 5383, [email protected]
Pricing: $
The XVA Art Hotel offers a cool fusion of culture and comfort in Dubai. The place is like a cozy hideaway amidst the maze-like lanes, where you can soak up the vibe of late 1800s courtyard houses mixed with modern flair.
We’re in awe that this hotel houses the city’s oldest contemporary art gallery—great for art lovers! Plus, its location makes it a breeze to check out nearby attractions like the Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi Fort, immersing you in the city’s rich history.
With two lush courtyards and a cafe serving chilled vibes and tasty drinks, relaxation seems effortless here. The architecture nods to tradition but with a modern twist, creating an oasis where you can unwind after exploring the colorful streets of Old Dubai.
Jumeirah Mina A’Salam
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Website: https://www.jumeirah.com/en/stay/dubai/jumeirah-mina-a-salam
Address: 45PP+39 – Jumeirah St – Madinat Jumeirah – Umm Suqeim 3 – Dubai
Contact Details: 800 6234628, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Jumeirah Mina A’Salam is a boutique-style hotel that’s all about Arabian luxury, with its architecture straight from One Thousand and One Nights. We reckon it’s the perfect spot to escape the city buzz, especially in winter.
You’ll be greeted by Emirati hosts serving up cardamom coffee and dates, giving you a taste of genuine Arabian hospitality. The interiors are also like stepping into a whole new world, with Persian carpets, Oriental lanterns, and intricate brassware everywhere.
Moreover, its indoor offerings—from top-notch dining to vibrant bars and a bustling souk—ensure there’s never a dull moment. And along Jumeirah Road, you’ll encounter landmarks like the Burj Al Arab and experience the local life in Um Suqeim 3.
Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa
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Website: https://www.arabiancourtyard.com/
Address: Al Seef Area, Opposite Dubai Museum – Dubai
Contact Details: +971 4 3519111, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa is a 4-star spot in Bur Dubai, right across from Al Fahidi Fort and Dubai Museum. The rooms blend Indo-Arabian vibes, with Deluxe Museum View options boasting killer views of the fort and Grand Mosque’s minaret.
A great highlight for us is that you can step into Dubai’s “Little India,” right around the hotel. It’s surrounded by spots like Special Ostadi, which is a quick 10-minute walk away, dishing out top-notch grub.
We also like that guests can immerse themselves in vibrant vibes with sari shops, Bollywood movie stores, and other cultural gems. Lots of options here!
Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers
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Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dxbsi-sheraton-dubai-creek-hotel-and-towers/overview/
Address: Baniyas Rd – Port Saeed – Riggat Al Buteen – Dubai
Contact Details: 04 228 1111, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers boasts killer views of Dubai Creek and the skyline, blending old-school charm with modern comfort since ‘78. We say the rooms are fresh and chic, especially those with creek views.
Dining here also looks awesome, with a Japanese joint, an Indian restaurant by a Michelin-starred chef, and an English-style pub next door! The location is prime for winter adventures too, whether strolling the dhow docks or exploring the Spice Souk.
Not to mention, we find it convenient that it’s super easy to get around, with a metro station just a 5-minute walk away.
Jumeirah Emirates Towers
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Website: https://www.jumeirah.com/en/stay/dubai/jumeirah-emirates-towers
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Trade Centre – Trade Centre 2 – Dubai
Contact Details: 04 330 0000, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Jumeirah Emirates Towers stands tall with its striking twin towers, offering a 5-star experience. Beyond the suits and deal-making, the hotel buzzes with energy, featuring top-notch dining at The Rib Room and Al Nafoorah, along with lovely views.
We appreciate that it’s got a big lobby, slick glass elevators, cozy rooms, and spacious bathrooms. Just a heads-up, though. If noise bugs you, you may ask for a room away from Dubai Square.
Nearby, Al Satwa awaits too! It’s a vibrant community boasting bustling souks and must-visit eateries like Ravi’s. We feel these spots offer an authentic taste of local charm, giving your Dubai winter getaway a big boost.
Tips for Visiting Dubai during Winter
Now that you’ve got the lowdown on Dubai’s winter vibe, here are some extra tips to ensure your stay here is a breeze (literally!):
Plan to dress warmly (and appropriately).Trade your summer outfits for snug winter wear as Dubai’s weather cools. Think warm sweaters, scarves, and knitwear to stay comfortable in temperatures ranging from 17°C to 28°C.
Update your skincare routine.Adjust your skincare routine for the colder weather to combat dryness and irritation. Choose gentle cleansers, hydrating toners, and nourishing moisturizers to keep your skin happy and hydrated.
Stock up on winter essentials.Embrace the cooler Dubai temperatures with hot beverages like tea and hot chocolate, along with comforting soups and stews—perfect for chilly evenings!
Make a rainy-day backup plan.While rain is rare in Dubai, it’s not impossible in the winter. Keep indoor activities like mall hopping, museum visits, or checking out indoor entertainment centers in your back pocket for those unexpected rainy days.
Score big savings in January!The first month of the year is the time to snag sweet deals in the Emirates. With fewer tourists, hotels, tours, and even airlines like Wizzair usually offer some steep discounts, so do your research and don’t miss out!
Apps to Download before Going to Dubai in Winter
RTA Dubai: Tells you when the next bus, metro, or water taxi is rolling by
iOs | Android
Xe Money Transfer & Converter: Your go-to for currency exchange, conversion, and international transfers
The ENTERTAINER: Offers discounts and special deals on dining, activities, and entertainment transfers