by The enchanting city of Dubai is a year-round destination despite being a desert city. But, you are worried about comfort, like if you do not want to sweat or face the Dubai sun, September can be a nice time to visit.
It is moderately cold, and you get to do a lot of additional activities. In this guide we have discussed everything you need to know about Dubai in the month of September.
Yalla, habibi, let’s go to Dubai.
The Magic of Dubai in September
Imagine this; you are standing on a rooftop bar, sipping a cool mocktail, watching the sun set behind the tallest building on the planet. The air is warm, but not stifling, and the city is buzzing with energy.
That is the magic of Dubai in September. But wait, you might be wondering, isn’t it supposed to be scorching hot?
Let’s talk about it.
Weather in September
See, I won’t lie to you; the Dubai in September weather can be toasty. We are looking at average highs around 38°C (100°F) and lows of about 26°C (79°F).
But here’s the thing; the city is actually cooling down from the peak summer months.
As a frequent traveller to Dubai, I was expecting the same unbearable heat, when I first visited Dubai in September. However, it wasn’t as bad as I had expected.
Sure, it is hot, but it’s a dry heat, which makes a world of difference. Also, the city has mastered the art of climate control; and almost every building and bus stop is air-conditioned.
Top Awesome Activities to Enjoy This September
IMG Worlds of Adventure
For the thrill-seekers out there, IMG Worlds of Adventure offers an incredible indoor theme park experience. It’s a great way to beat the heat while getting your adrenaline fix.
And if you’re visiting towards the end of the month, you might catch the beginning of Halloween at IMG World – they start gearing up for the spooky season around this time.
Burj Khalifa
Desert Safari
Dubai Mall
Dhow Cruise
What to Wear in September
Packing for Dubai in September can be tricky. You want to stay cool, but also respect local customs. Here’s what I’ve learned.
- Light, loose-fitting clothes are your best bet. Think breathable fabrics like cotton and linen.
- Ladies, maxi dresses and long skirts are perfect – they’re breezy and culturally appropriate.
- Guys, lightweight trousers and short-sleeved shirts work well.
- Don’t forget your swimwear for pool and beach days.
- Pack a light jacket or cardigan for air-conditioned indoor spaces.
Remember, while Dubai is pretty cosmopolitan, it’s still good to be mindful of local dress codes, especially when visiting religious sites or traditional areas.
Is September a Good Time to Visit?
You might be asking yourself, “Should I really visit Dubai in September?” Well, let me tell you, there are some definite perks:
- Fewer crowds: Most tourists flock to Dubai in winter, so you’ll have more space to yourself at attractions.
- Better deals: Hotels and attractions often offer discounts during this “shoulder season.”
- Warm sea temperatures: Perfect for a refreshing dip in the Arabian Gulf.
What to Eat?
For me, one of the most exciting parts of travelling is I can try out various local foods. Here are some of the best must-tries from Dubai.
- Shawarma: It is the ultimate street food, and is perfect for a quick, tasty bite.
- Hummus and Falafel: A classic Middle Eastern dish that is vegetarian-friendly.
- Machboos: This one is a fragrant rice dish, often made with chicken or lamb.
- Luqaimat: Sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup; a perfect dessert.
Grabbing Essentials
Whenever you visit Dubai, you must remember that you have to stay cool, comfortable, and modest. Here is a checklist for you to make sure you get all the essentials while travelling to Dubai.
- Lightweight, modest clothing
- Swimwear
- Sunscreen (lots of it.)
- Sunglasses and a hat
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A reusable water bottle
- Power adapter (Dubai uses Type G plugs)
Average Cost
Dubai is known to be very expensive. So, here is a rough idea of the cost.
- Accommodation: $50-$200 per night (budget to mid-range)
- Meals: $10-$30 per person for a decent meal
- Transportation: $7-$10 per day using public transport
- Activities: Varies widely, but budget about $50-$100 per day for attractions
By the way, September is off-season, so you might grab some deals on hotels and activities.
Insider Tips and Tricks
Here are some insider tips to make your September trip to Dubai unforgettable.
- Please start your days early
- Beat the stern heat by exploring the outdoor activities in the morning hours.
- Always take advantage of happy hours
- Many bars offer great deals in the early evening.
- Use the metro to save money.
- The city is cheap, efficient, and air-conditioned.
- Visit beaches in the late afternoon
- The sand can be scorching hot midday or at noon.
- Check out free activities
- Many malls also offer free entertainment, especially on weekends.
Family Fun
Are you travelling with kids? No issues; there are tons of things to do in Dubai for kids.
From water parks to indoor theme parks in Dubai, your little ones will have a blast. Then there is the Dubai aquarium, KidZania, and the Dubai Ice Rink which are some great options to keep your kid entertained.
September vs. August
Now, you might be wondering how September compares to the peak of summer. While Dubai in August is at the height of the hot season, September sees slightly cooler temperatures and the start of the transition to the more pleasant autumn weather.
It’s still hot, but it’s that first hint that cooler days are on the horizon.
Cultural Considerations
While Dubai is a modern, cosmopolitan city, it’s important to remember that it’s also part of a conservative Muslim country.
During your visit:
- Please dress modestly in public places, especially at religious sites.
- Make sure to avoid public displays of affection.
- Be very respectful during prayer times, especially when visiting during Ramadan or any other big festival.
- Consumption of alcohol is only allowed in licensed venues, usually big hotels and restaurants.
Getting Around
Dubai has an excellent public transportation system. The metro is clean, efficient, and air-conditioned – perfect for getting around in September.
Taxis are plentiful and relatively affordable, and there are also ride-hailing apps available.
For a unique experience, take an abra (traditional wooden boat) across Dubai Creek. It’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective and escape the heat for a bit.
Shopping Extravaganza
Dubai is also a shopper’s paradise, and September is a good time to indulge in the sales. Most malls offer summer sales that extend up to September.
From traditional souks to ultra-modern malls, Dubai shopping spots offer everything from local handicrafts to luxury brands, making it a shopper’s paradise.
Nightlife in Dubai
As the sun sets and the temperatures cool, the city comes alive in a different way. The rooftop bar offers stunning views of the City Skyline, and beach clubs hosting lively parties.
Just remember to dress appropriately – many high-end venues have dress codes.
Day Trips from Dubai
If you have some additional time in hand, take a day trip to these nearby attractions.
- Abu Dhabi: You will get together to visit the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
- Al Ain: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site, which is also known as the Garden City of the UAE.
- Hatta: You can always escape to the mountains for some outdoor adventure and cooler temperatures.
Wrapping It Up
So that is the end of our comprehensive guide to visit Dubai in September. Ok, it will be hot, but with smart planning and following our guide, you will surely have an amazing time in the city.
You can always mix outdoor activities with indoor escapes, traditional experiences with modern luxuries. It is a perfect time to explore the city with lesser crowds and potentially low prices.
Thinking of giving it a try? Pack your sunscreen, get ready to face the heat, and finally be prepared for an unforgettable adventure in Dubai.
