Dubai in August – Things to do, Attractions & Events in Dubai

Dubai is unquestionably hot, especially in the summer. Are you among the ones stuck indoors in Dubai this August? Can’t bear the thought of stepping out in the heat? That’s no excuse because you are in Dubai! The city is full of excitement for those who share it, and no day in August is too dull to have fun.

Is August a good time to visit Dubai?

Dubai’s summer is still in full swing in August. But that doesn’t dampen the spirit of Dubai’s vigor and excitement. The emirate leaves no stone unturned for visitors to have a good time in Dubai in August. Here’s why you should not turn down an opportunity to visit Dubai in August.

Budget-friendly: Dubai is still in low season in August. So, guests in Dubai during August can take advantage of low-cost travel amenities – be it hotel bookings, flight tickets, tour packages, or transportation.

Crowd-free Sightseeing: August sees just a trickle of tourists, which means you can view Dubai’s most iconic landmarks and attractions without fighting for a good viewing point.

No need for reservations: During high seasons, it would be hard for you to get a table at your choice of restaurants or dining venues if you do not have a reservation. In August, you can easily avail of dining venues and other activities without pre-booking a slot or a seat. However, it is highly recommended that you make a reservation if you have already planned your dinner in an exquisite hotel to avoid disappointments.

Luxury for less: Since you can find price drops in almost all travel facilities, you also get the advantage of living a luxe life in Dubai for a steal! That’s right! Many luxury hotels in Dubai slash their prices during the low season, and August is one of the best months to take advantage of such low hotel prices.

Extravagant events: Dubai welcomes its guests to enjoy a riot of exciting events in August. Most of these are held indoors so that the sweltering sun does not bother and spoil the fun.

Weather in Dubai in August

August and July are the hottest months of the year in Dubai. In August, the temperature ranges from as low as 31 degrees Celsius to as high as 41 degrees Celsius. Being somewhat at the peak of summer, it gets plenty of sunshine for up to 12 hours.

• Temperature: Low: 31 degrees Celsius, High: 41 degrees Celsius
• Humidity: 51%
• Chance of Rain (%): 0%
• Daylight (Hrs): 12 hours
• Sunrise: 05:49 am
• Sunset: 07:00 pm

Things to do in Dubai in August

Score Smart Deals at Dubai Flea Market

Whether you are in Dubai in December or August, it is never a bad time to do some shopping. And the Dubai Flea Market is a good place to look for authentic new and used items. You can also find handicrafts, produced by individuals, as retailer participation in this flea market is strictly prohibited.

Chill Out at Zero Gravity Beach Club

If you are looking to let your hair down, Zero Gravity Beach Club is where you should be in August. Located next to the Sky Dive Dubai drop zone, it stands out for its uber-stylish ambiance, complete with private beach access, pub, lounge, bar, and restaurant. Their line-up for August includes some exciting events, such as an in-house DJ performance. There might also be some entry concessions!

• Timings: Monday to Sunday: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
• Location: Dubai Marina, Skydive Dubai Drop Zone, Dubai

Say Hi to Dolphins and Sea Lions at Dubai Dolphinarium

Head to the Dubai Dolphinarium with your family and friends to beat the August heat! Dubai Dolphinarium is a place for kids and adults to enjoy a delightful day in the company of playful dolphins, brilliant seals, and beautiful birds. Apart from dolphin shows and interactions, you can enjoy several other activities here, like 5D and 7D cinema, the Mirror Maze, etc. Be sure to book your shows beforehand. It’s located inside Dubai Creek Park, where you’ll get to relax in its lush green spaces, enjoy a cable car ride, and let little ones make the most of a dedicated kids’ play area.

• Timings: Wednesdays to Sundays: 11:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 5:00 pm
• Location: Inside the Creek Park Gate 1, Umm Hurair Road, Dubai.

Beat the Summer Heat at Dubai Waterparks

Dubai Waterparks are unarguably the best way to beat the heat. It is one of the top things to do in Dubai this summer. Dubai is full of them, and the list includes Wild Wadi, Aquaventure, and LEGOLAND Water Park. Plan a visit to one of these and make your August visit to Dubai the most unforgettable ever. The excitement of the rides and the pools is sure to re-energize you.

• Timings of most water parks: Monday to Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm

How to Book: Click here to book your favorite water park in Dubai.

Explore Dubai’s Electric Nightlife

While the temperature drops outside at night, it’s the opposite for the excitement level. It soars as Dubai gears for its vibrant nightlife. Head to Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah to explore a range of lounges and night hotspots such as Siddharta Lounge, White Beach -Atlantis The Palm, and Coucou.

Discover Dubai’s Cultural Heritage

Dubai is quite renowned for its Emirati heritage as much as for its modernist ambience. While it wouldn’t be advisable to wander the streets of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, you can always plan an outdoor evening excursion along the banks of Dubai Creek’s old-world settings. Head to Dubai Souk for an evening shopping spree or take a classic dhow cruise dinner cruise on the creek. If you want to explore culture during the day, you should absolutely visit cultural museums such as Etihad Museum, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding and Dubai Frame.

Places to See – Dubai in August

IMG Worlds of Adventure

You necessarily don’t have to be outdoors to get your adrenaline pumping. Visit Dubai’s astonishing theme parks, where you’ll be able to test your limits with the most pulse-racing rides, games, and activities. IMG Worlds of Adventure, the biggest indoor park in UAE, is an amazing place to spend time with family and friends exploring adventurous rides of MARVEL, Cartoon Network, and dinosaur-themed arenas and rides.

Ski Dubai

Get some winter action in this summer desert city with a trip to Ski Dubai at the Mall of the Emirates. Set indoors, this winter park, sheathed in snowy landscapes, lets you ski, sledge, and even enjoy chairlifts and more. When it is time to take a break, watch the cute penguins come out to entertain you with their adorable parades. It is a great spot to chill, sit back, and spend time with your near and dear ones away from Dubai’s soaring temperature.

Green Planet Dubai

Not a fan of Icy Wonderland? How about a trip to the tropical rainforests instead? If you love greenery and want to surround yourself with nature’s lush green canopies, head to Green Planet Dubai. This one-of-a-kind horticultural greenhouse teeming with gorgeous birds and animals will make you forget for a moment that you are visiting Dubai in the summertime!

Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall is perhaps the best spot to shop (or window shop), dine, and indulge in amazing activities. The world’s biggest mall offers the perfect respite from the summer heat in its air-conditioned interiors with over 2000 shops and more than 200 dining venues and food outlets. The newly opened Chinatown is a fascinating venue where you can check out the culture and souvenirs. Spend your day exploring virtual games at PLAY Dubai, try deep dive Dubai at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, strap on skates and glide on Dubai Ice Rink, or stay back through the evening to view Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain shimmer and sparkle in the inky ambiance.

How to Book: Click here to book your favorite Theme Parks In Dubai.

Dubai Festivals and Events in August

August Festivals in Dubai

Dubai Summer Surprises

Throughout six weeks in Dubai, shopping malls and food courts organize special events as part of the Dubai Summer Surprises initiative, which has been a much-looked-forward-to summer tradition since 1998. This year, it runs from June 28 to September 1, 2024. Enquire with a mall close to you to know more about the kind of events they will host throughout August.

• When: Ongoing till 1st September 2024
• Location: Citywide

August Events in Dubai

Summer of Sharks

Calling all adventure enthusiasts! In August, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a thrilling underwater dive in Ambassador Lagoon at Lost World Aquarium in Atlantis the Palm. Snorkel among sharks, feed stingrays and take part in exciting activities as well as a chance to win a shark-themed vacation!

• When: Ongoing till 12th August 2024
• Location: Lost Chambers Aquarium, Atlantis The Palm.

Modesh World

This ongoing free event is a delightful experience to enjoy for the whole family in Dubai. As Modesh World celebrates its 25th anniversary, you can expect more oomph and extravagance in this indoor recreational-cum edutainment event located in Dubai World Trade Centre.

• When: Ongoing till 18th August 2024
• Location: Dubai World Trade Centre

Restaurant Month at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai

Pre-book your table at JW Marriot Marquis Dubai for a food fiesta at a stellar price! This opulent hotel celebrates gastronomy with the ‘Restaurant month’ in August 2024. You can enjoy signature menus and exquisite meal experiences across all restaurants for just AED 245 per person. So, grab the opportunity to explore some fantastic multi-course menus of international cuisine when you visit Dubai in August.

• When: 1st – 15th August 2024
• Location: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Restaurants

Travel Tips to Visit Dubai in August

• Plan your trip during the weekdays, from Monday to Friday. The local crowds are sparse, so there will be fewer queues for your attractions.
• Hotel rates can be reduced by up to 50 percent. So, make use of the discounts and book hotels that have indoor swimming pools. A dip in the water is the best way to cool off the summer heat.
• Book tickets in advance for all the attractions and sightseeing trips, including a full day Dubai city tour. It will help you avoid long queues.
• Dubai, in summer, has usually a long day. It means you can sleep late and wake up late in the morning, and yet you would not have missed anything as Dubai comes alive in the evening.
• Visit outdoor attractions either early in the morning or during dusk hours so that you can avoid the harsh heat during late mornings and afternoons. Mornings and evenings are cooler in summer, but even so, you should focus on staying hydrated and applying sunscreen when the sun isn’t shining brightly.

Things to Know Before Visit Dubai in August

What to Pack for Dubai in August

Make sure to tick off this essential list before you depart for your August Dubai holiday:

Universal Charger: Dubai uses Type G plug sockets with 230 volts AC and 50 Hz frequency. Carrying a universal charger simplifies your worry about the voltage and plug types to consider while traveling to Dubai.

Local Connectivity: Though you might get free Wi-Fi facilities in most places, don’t just rely on them for digital connectivity. Get yourself a local SIM card with a data plan for seamless communication. You can also take advantage of free SIM cards provided upon your arrival in Dubai.

Local Currency: Dubai uses UAE dirhams as its local currency. While you can make purchases using international credit cards, it is advisable to carry local currency in cash to make simple purchases in local shops and sights.

Basic First Aid Kit: Carry a small pouch filled with daily medications if any, antiseptic creams, moisturizers, pain relievers, and band-aids for any emergencies.

Sun-Protection Kit: This kit includes your sunglasses, sunscreen, scarves and hats, lip balm, portable and refillable water bottle, wet wipes, and deodorant to stay fresh during hot weather.

Document carry-bag: Ensure that you keep all your travel documents, such as travel insurance, passports and visas, and emergency contacts, safe in one bag along with any valuables so that you do not lose them during your Dubai travel.

What to wear in Dubai in August

Light-Weight Attire: Cotton and Linen clothes are your best buddies during your August trip to Dubai. If possible, avoid wearing denim or tight-fitted clothes during the summers in Dubai.

Casual is the Key: Keep your attire simple and refreshing. Choose pastels or monochrome dressing. Avoid black or dark-colored clothing. You can explore your options in flared plants, airy dresses, shorts, long skirts and loose T-shirts or shirts.

Dress Code: Take note of the dress code while you pack your clothes for the Dubai trip. Dubai is lenient in comparison to other emirates of the UAE. However, there are certain places where you will have to obey modest dressing such as religious places and even certain malls and attractions that cater to families. Swimwear is allowed on certain beaches and waterparks. Some high-end dining venues and restaurants also have a formal dress code in place. In all cases, attire with slogans, pictures or captions that can be offensive to the locals is not permitted. While Dubai is quite liberal, it’s best to avoid overly revealing clothing in public places.

Simple Accessories: Keep your accessories minimal and simple. Try not to add accessories such as chunky jewelry, and choker necklaces even if you are attending an indoor event. If you are stepping for outdoor experiences, scarves, hats, sunglasses and a bottle of fresh, cool water are non-negotiable must-haves.

Getting Around Dubai in August

Dubai has state-of-the-art connectivity and infrastructure to support the movement of people in and around the city.

By Rail: The best way to travel to popular spots in Dubai Downtown, Dubai International Airport, and Dubai Marina is by taking the efficient Dubai Metro. There are two Metro lines that cover almost 75 meters of the city. There is also Dubai tram that runs along Al Sufouh Road and Jumeirah Beach Road and a Dubai monorail service at Palm Jumeirah for the convenience of locals and tourists in Dubai.

By Road: To reach other places not connected by Dubai Metro, you can take advantage of Dubai’s fleet of taxis that are sleek, fast, and efficient. Planning to get behind the wheel and drive around on your own? Dubai also offers amazing car rental services for you to explore the city at your own pace. If you are looking for a cheap mode of road transport, then Dubai has an extensive public bus service at your disposal.

By Water: Dubai’s waterways through the creek and canals offer additional support to offer faster and more efficient connectivity within the city. You can hop on a water taxi, Dubai ferry, or an abra and glide shore to shore comfortably.

Where to Stay in Dubai in August

Budget Hotels

Rove City Centre – Deira, Arabian Boutique Hotel, Ibis Styles Dubai Jumeirah, Hampton By Hilton Dubai Al Barsha, Mercure Dubai Deira, Holiday Inn Express Dubai Safa Park, an IHG Hotel

Deluxe, 4 Star Hotels

Courtyard by Marriott Dubai, Al Barsha, Vida Creek Harbour, Edge Creekside Hotel, Aloft Dubai Airport, TRYP by Wyndham Dubai, Grand Excelsior Hotel – Bur Dubai, Royal Ascot Hotel.

Luxury Hotels

Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, The Lana, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, Hyatt Regency Dubai – Corniche, Jumeirah Creekside Dubai, Millennium Plaza Downtown, Anantara Downtown Dubai.

Ultra-Luxury Hotels

FIVE LUXE, Jumeirah Al Qasr Dubai, One & Only One Za’beel, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Four Seasons Resort Dubai At Jumeirah Beach, Atlantis the Palm, The Biltmore Hotel Villas, Armani Hotel Dubai, Banyan Tree Dubai

What to Eat in Dubai in August

During an August trip, you would spend a lot of time indoors in Dubai than on any outdoor excursion. So, it gives you the perfect opportunity to explore Dubai’s dynamic indoor food scene. Delve into the multi-cultural ensemble presented to you in various restaurants and dining venues across Dubai. However, keep in mind to indulge in a diet that complements your body in the sunny weather of Dubai. Here’s what you should try out on your Dubai trip:

Emirati and Middle Eastern Cuisine

There is an assortment of Middle Eastern and Emirati cuisines to check out to keep you refreshed and satiated during an August sojourn in Dubai. For a refreshing appetizer, try a healthy salad, Fattoush, which is made up of an assortment of vegetables and herbs that complement well with a delightful dressing. You can also try out Labneh, a chilled dip made of hung yoghurt, herbs, and spices for a quick snack with bread. For a wholesome Emirati meal, try Thareed, a flavorful and comforting stew made of meat or chicken, loaded with vegetables, slow-cooked to perfection, and served with bread.

Seafood and Mediterranean Dishes

During August, go light on meat and substitute it for seafood variety dishes. There are plenty of Japanese restaurants that offer lip-smacking combinations of seafood sushi and sashmis. For main courses, skip heavy curries with light Mediterranean dishes such as chilled gazpacho.

Refreshing assortment of chilled desserts

There is no shortage of icy, creamy sweet indulgence in Dubai as there are plenty of outlets to choose your favorite flavors. Head to upscale restaurants to explore a range of decadent, multi-sensory creations of desserts, such as melt-in-your-mouth softies by SALT -Dubai Marina or exquisite gourmet-styled desserts at Brix Café. Treat yourself to Lebanese treats at Bachir ice cream, try your first camel milk ice cream at Nouq, or indulge in coconut ras malai at Bombay Bungalow. The trail on this sweet-treat journey is long and doesn’t disappoint you at all!

Steak Tartare on Ice

If you are an avid non-vegetarian and a steak lover, then head to the Steak Tartare on Ice Festival – a one-of-a-kind culinary celebration that celebrates amazing French steak cuisine. Add a touch of French gastronomy elegance to your culinary journey in Dubai this August as you get a chance to enjoy the Couqley’s Steak Tartare on Ice event. Head to Couqley French Brasserie at Business Bay to enjoy this flavorful indulgence. The event ends on 31 August 2024.

Don’t miss out on the Sizzling Summer Eats Event during Dubai Summer Surprises to get a sensory overload of fantastic, flavorful dishes with irresistible discounts at select restaurants. The event ends on 15th August 2024.

You might be interested – Dubai in September | Dubai in October

FAQs about Visiting Dubai in August

1. Why visit Dubai in August?

August is one of the budget-friendly months to visit Dubai. You should visit Dubai in August for the best shopping discounts and special summer events and take advantage of low-cost hotel and flight prices.

2. Is August a good month to explore Dubai?

Due to its sweltering heat and humidity, August is regarded as the off-peak travel month in Dubai. If you can tolerate the heat, August is an affordable season to visit Dubai because it also has some of the best bargains on lodging, activities, and flights. However, there are plenty of indoor attractions to visit, and August is the best time to explore these experiences.

3. Is the weather hot throughout August in Dubai?

Unfortunately, yes, the weather can touch more than 40 degrees Celsius during the day. However, early mornings, evenings, and nights have cooler temperatures and are pleasant to venture out.

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