Abu Dhabi, a name that pops up at the mention of Middle Eastern holidays, is akin to Dubai – the extravagant emirate of UAE. As the capital city of UAE, Abu Dhabi reigns in 84% of the country’s space. Within it is a treasure trove of cultural and natural attractions. Over the recent years, the emirate has also introduced some of the world’s best theme parks and modern landmarks that have grabbed attention of globetrotters. So, when you plan for a UAE holiday, it’s evident you’ll want to visit Abu Dhabi with Dubai. But when should that be? We present to you a comprehensive guide for you to understand which is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi. Based on this, you can choose your best preference and head for your dream Abu Dhabi holiday.
Best Time to Visit Abu Dhabi According to Seasons
Abu Dhabi, a desert destination, has sunshine all year with a touch of humidity from the Persian Gulf. If there are any changes to the weather, it will just be warmer or somewhat colder.
Spring (March to May)
The weather from March to May in Abu Dhabi is slightly warmer, as the temperature soars to 26 to 32°Celsius. This is actually the final period to observe Abu Dhabi’s verdant oases and enjoy pleasant outdoor activities like desert safaris and beach excursions. The region’s oases feature a greenery tinge, with wildflowers and desert blooms sprouting randomly. Overall, the ambience is perfect for full-day outdoor excursions. Nights are obviously cooler than daytime.
Summer (June to August)
The sun shines brighter than ever from June to August. Summer is here, and temperatures can touch up to 45°C. Although it’s summertime, that doesn’t mean it’s dry and hot. Due to the coastal shores, the air is heavy with humidity, which can lead to sweltering days. The combination of heat and humidity isn’t ideal for outdoor exploration. However, this is the low season in Abu Dhabi, making it a great time for budget travellers to visit. The only setback is that you would have to choose indoor, air-conditioned attractions and experiences rather than sauntering outdoors. If you had planned for outdoor excursions, summer is not the best time to explore those in Abu Dhabi.
Autumn (September to November)
September brings along a drop in the blazing heat. Until November, the season offers warm days and pleasant nights for outdoor experiences. The sea is also warm, hence it’s an incredible time to step outside, go on day trips, enjoy the serene beaches, and water sports activities. The intense summer heat finally comes to an end; the ambience is less stifling hot, but mind you, the mid-days are still warm. November, however, is much more pleasant than previous autumn months. You can wander around under the bright, blue, clear skies and expect sunshine throughout the day. Since it is a desert emirate, you will find only a refreshing vibe in the air; there won’t be any autumn leafage to view.
Winter (December to February)
After November ends, a dramatic drop in temperature occurs for the next three months. As the New Year approaches, Abu Dhabi welcomes a crispness to the otherwise heavy, humid air in the city. These are the best months to enjoy outdoor attractions and day trips without worrying about sweltering in the desert sun. During these months, you can spend leisurely days at some of the popular beaches in Abu Dhabi such as Corniche Beach or Saadiyat Beach. The list of things to do brims with exciting experiences – go on desert safaris, wander through the intricate architecture of Qasr Al Watan, or marvel at the natural beauty of Jubail Mangrove Park.
Best Time to Visit Abu Dhabi to Avoid Crowds
April to July are the months where temperatures rise dramatically. Summers in Abu Dhabi are intense, hence, this is the low season for the region. However, from April onwards, tourists trickle down, making it the best time to visit Abu Dhabi to beat the rush. For those who want to explore this dynamic city, fused in culture and modernity, without any tourist crowds, the summer months from April to July are the ideal time. However, one should keep in mind that the temperature can cross 40°Celsius. This means it wouldn’t be comfortable to explore the outdoors. But then again, there are plenty of indoor attractions like Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Snow Abu Dhabi, stellar shopping malls like Marina Mall, and museums like Louvre Abu Dhabi that will have fewer waiting lines and long queues. Thus, visiting during these months gives you a smooth entry to otherwise crowded attractions. So, you can linger longer at exhibits, enjoy galleries and parks at a more relaxed pace and find perfect photo opportunities without dozens of people photobombing in your shot.
Best Time to Visit Abu Dhabi on a Budget
If saving money is a priority on your Abu Dhabi holiday, you should plan your visit during low season and shoulder months. Summers in Abu Dhabi are intensely hot. Hence, the city receives fewer tourists, which in turn leads to lower prices for accommodations and flights. Tour operators also tend to offer discounts on city tours and other excursions when demand is lower. So, during the summer months, though it is hot outside, visitors with a limited holiday budget can take advantage of low costs and explore the city’s indoor attractions and colossal malls. Similarly, the shoulder seasons offer better, reasonable rates than peak winter months and have a comfortable climate compared to summers. Shoulder season months of October and April have an ideal climate to enjoy outdoor activities during the cooler mornings and evenings. Find out the top places to visit in Abu Dhabi at night and make the best use of cooler night ambience during your Abu Dhabi budget holiday.
Best Time to Visit Abu Dhabi for Festivals
Plan your visit to Abu Dhabi from November to March so that your timing coincides with Abu Dhabi’s festival times. Unlike the scorching summer, these months make Abu Dhabi pleasant with mild temperatures, ideal for enjoying outdoor concerts, sports events, souks and markets festivals, and cultural parades without feeling overwhelmed by the heat. Ferrari fans should definitely match their visit with the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix dates, which usually occur in December.
To ensure a complete Ferrari experience, book your Ferrari World Abu Dhabi tickets in advance so that you can experience the thrill of this thrilling Ferrari theme park.
The brilliant clear skies and the warmth of the sunshine in November urge you to step out and discover the electric vibes during the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show. Late March also brings festivals like Eid Al Fitr, when the entire city hosts a galore of Iftar feasts – a fantastic time for foodies to explore the Middle Eastern local food scene.
Best Time to Visit Abu Dhabi for Family/ Solo/ Friends/ Groups / Honeymooners
In general, the best time to visit Abu Dhabi is during the cooler months – November to March. These months are apt for all types of travellers. However, if you visiting Abu Dhabi solo or with friends and family but have a stringent budget to follow, then it is best to explore the city during the shoulder months of April and October. If you are a youngster travelling to Abu Dhabi and don’t mind the heat, the summers are the ultimate time to explore Abu Dhabi at half the rate of what you would spend on a winter vacation. For honeymooners and couples seeking an intimate romantic escape, September-October and March-April are the best times to visit Abu Dhabi. Though the weather won’t be as cool as in winter months, the heat is reasonable. Since you would be seeking relaxation and nonchalant time to spend together, we recommend keeping most of your experiences to indoor attractions during the day. February is also the quintessential month for lovebirds to steal some time for themselves away from daily life. Venture outdoors to explore couple-friendly places to visit in Abu Dhabi during the early morning or late evenings. Definitely, check out the city in the moonlight at night as it looks spectacular in illuminations.
A Month-to-Month Guide to Visiting Abu Dhabi
January (16°C to 24°C)
January in Abu Dhabi is perfect for those who do not want to spend their time in freezing cold weather in Europe and the Americas. The Middle Eastern warmth with a slight hint of cool breeze is delightful enough to comfortably explore outdoor attractions like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or simply relax on pristine beaches. This is also the best time to visit Abu Dhabi for desert safari experiences. For any kind of safari, be it a morning, afternoon, or overnight experience, Abu Dhabi in January provides the best setting to enjoy dune-bashing, camel rides, falconry shows, and more.
February (18°C to 27°C)
The good vibes and great weather continue their spell in February. This month will tempt you to get outside and view iconic landmarks on an Abu Dhabi city tour, or try outdoor activities such as kayaking at mangrove parks. It is one of the best months for couples to enjoy a Valentine’s Day escape in this fascinating city with strolls along the Corniche to take in the serene waterfront and city skyline vistas. You can rent bikes and explore at your own pace. Spend your day kayaking, and in the evening, head to Observation Deck at 300 for splendid sunset views.
March (20°C to 32°C)
March sees a drop in tourist numbers after the busy months of January and February, owing to a slight temperature increase. With a balanced temperature between 20 to 30°C, the temperatures in March are just right for exploring the deserts and oases. Head to Reem’s Island to enjoy stand-up paddling amid mangroves, gear up for a trip to Al Ain Oasis to view a myriad of date palms or go for wildlife viewing at Arabian Wildlife Park at Sir Bani Yas Island. Eid Al Fitr usually falls in this month, so try to plan your holiday to align with this festival to join in the grand celebrations and sample some amazing iftar treats.
April (28°C to 40°C)
April turns the heat up a notch, signalling the onset of the summer season. Yet, the temperature is balanced for outdoor experiences in the mornings and late afternoons, and indoor experiences offer respite from the slightly stronger afternoon sunshine. This shoulder season month favours tourists who want to enjoy a mix of cultural and adventure experiences while not having to shell out a lot of money for their holiday. Adventure lovers can try out a variety of water sports that suit their interests, right from snorkelling to parasailing, windsurfing to deep sea fishing. April’s clear skies make it perfect for photography. Hence, visit the mosque, cultural sights, or the waterfront at golden hour to flaunt pictures on your social media feed.
May (29°C to 41°C)
Summer makes its presence felt in May as temperatures soar to the 40s. It is undeniably hot, but the heat doesn’t affect you as it does in the following months of June and July. Short outdoor tours can be easily managed during the morning and evenings. The city’s air-conditioned malls, museums, and indoor attractions come to the rescue for cooling off when the heat peaks in the afternoon. Keep an eye out for Abu Dhabi’s list of events to see if there are any cultural, music, or sports events that you would want to attend.
June (31°C to 43°C)
It is time to move indoors, away from the scorching sun. We recommend that you discover everything Yas Island has to offer during your June visit. Explore the stellar theme parks of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Warner Bros Abu Dhabi. Book Yas Waterworld tickets or explore Snow Abu Dhabi to chill out away from the heat. Late evenings, head to Yas Beach for a serene sunset view, and then head to Yas Mall for some shopping and dining experiences. As it is low season, the prices of attraction tickets as well as for chic hotels on the island go down.
July (33°C to 44°C)
July is an invitation from Abu Dhabi to come and enjoy luxury at its finest. Take advantage of the lowest prices you will ever receive in Abu Dhabi. It’s officially off-peak season in Abu Dhabi as the temperature soars to 44°C. It is definitely not the time to spend outdoors. However, with lower prices for accommodation and attractions, along with fewer tourists, this is an ideal time to explore indoor attractions that usually are packed with tourists in other months of the year. Hotel rates also drastically decline, which makes it affordable to explore luxury options like Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental and Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi. It’s the best time to include these stay options in Abu Dhabi holiday packages to experience opulent settings and world-class hospitality at reasonable prices.
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Featured August (32°C to 42°C)
August is still a low-season month, which means fewer crowds, discounted hotel rates, and deals on attractions continue. However, this is the last month in Abu Dhabi to enjoy luxury at a steal. The significantly lower prices will likely shoot up once you reach the end of this month. Take this opportunity to stay in classy hotels and explore the eclectic fine dining and high-end culinary scene.
September (31°C to 40°C)
There’s a slight respite from the summer sun as September brings in a dip in temperature. The air is warm, but the scorching summer heat is easing. September is ideal to dive into Abu Dhabi’s blend of tradition by discovering skills that aided humble life during bygone eras. As September kicks off the shoulder season, it’s one of the prime months to enjoy cultural activities at ease. Check out a 90-minute Abu Dhabi Pearl Journey by Eastern Mangrove Hotel and Spa Resort by Anantara to get an in-depth glimpse into the pearl industry. Another mind-blowing Arabian skill to witness is the falcon and Arabian Saluki shows held by Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara in the Liwa desert.
October (28°C to 37°C)
In October, you can feel a shift in the ambience as the sleepy city surges with vibrant energy and is in full swing, gearing up for peak season. Take advantage of these pleasant times and explore Abu Dhabi’s delectable food scene. The ‘BRB – Brick Rooftop Brunch’ is one of the highly popular brunch experiences that starts in October, letting you sample a variety of brick-oven cooked Arabic and Mediterranean dishes. If you’re looking for a laid-back culinary adventure, dive into Abu Dhabi’s vibrant street food scene! Check out the lively souks and markets like The Al Mina Market, Central Market, and Al Ain Souk. October is also the start of the cruise season in Abu Dhabi, so pre-plan your holiday and extend it with a cruise holiday from Abu Dhabi to some of the most breathtaking destinations along its nautical route.
November (24°C to 31°C)
November’s mild climate makes it perfect for outdoor exploration, from desert safaris to seaside strolls, without breaking into a sweat and feeling the need to hide in air-conditioned malls. It’s the start of the high season, so expect a lively vibe as international visitors flock to soak up the sun. The Arabian Gulf waters are ideal for a refreshing dip, and the warm weather is ideal for water-based activities. November is a popular month for outdoor events, so block your travel days to fit in any specific concerts, food festivals, or cultural performances.
December (18°C to 25°C)
Winter welcomes you with a refreshingly cool climate in December. Give preference to open-air experiences and outdoor excursions over malls and closed attractions. Your holiday itinerary should include a comprehensive city tour and visits to popular attractions such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Emirates Palace, Qasr Al Hosn, Al Ain Oasis, and more. This is the perfect time to visit Al Wathba Fossil Dunes or go camping at Jebel Hafit Desert Park. Often held in December, the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is a major global event that takes place on Yas Island. If your visit aligns with the dates, it’s an electrifying experience that should not be missed; but book well in advance!
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best time to visit Abu Dhabi totally depends on your priorities. Whether you’re chasing sunshine and outdoor adventures, seeking cultural experiences without the crowds, or hunting for the best luxury deals, Abu Dhabi offers a compelling reason to visit every season.
FAQs
1. Which month is not suited for outdoor travel?
July is typically not recommended for outdoor travel as it is the hottest month in Abu Dhabi, with temperatures often soaring to 44°C.
2. When is the peak tourist season in Abu Dhabi?
The peak tourist season is generally from November to March due to the pleasant cooler weather.
3. Is it worth visiting Abu Dhabi during the summer months – June-August?
Yes, it can be worth it for budget travellers, as prices for flights and accommodation are significantly lower. Focus on indoor, air-conditioned attractions during this time.
4. Would you recommend visiting Abu Dhabi during the Ramadan period?
Yes, if you seek a low-budget holiday. No, if you want a comprehensive holiday without any traditional restrictions. During Ramadan, many attractions remain open, but they may have altered operating hours. Restaurants might be closed during fasting hours and reopen for Iftar.
5. How many days are recommended for a first-time visit to Abu Dhabi?
Ideally, 3 to 5 days are recommended for a first-time visit to experience a good mix of cultural, historical, and modern attractions.
