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The Dubai Heat!
As the mercury soars and the skyline shimmers, experiencing summer in Dubai can be a true test of endurance. The Dubai heat, with its sweltering embrace, transforms the city into a sizzling cauldron from May through September. Yet, with the right preparation, the sizzling temperatures of a Dubai summer can be navigated with ease.
Whether you’re marvelling at the architectural wonders or indulging in the luxurious comforts of this desert metropolis, our essential tips will ensure the Dubai heat only enhances your adventure, not hinders it. Embrace these strategies, from the golden dunes of the Arabian Desert to the sparkling shores of the Persian Gulf, and transform your summer vacation into a tale of triumph over the scorching sun.
Stay Sun-Safe: Sunscreen as Your Guard Against the Dubai Heat
In the battle against the Dubai heat, sunscreen is your trusted ally. Before you embark on your desert adventure, arm yourself with ample sunscreen from home to sidestep the steep prices in Dubai. An extra tip: your choice of sunscreen can be a game-changer in your skin’s defence against the scorching Dubai sun.
Hydration: Your Strategy Against the Dubai Heat
Water becomes more than a necessity in the Dubai heat—it’s your strategic asset in staying hydrated. To counter the dehydrating effects of caffeine and alcohol, commit to a hydration plan that includes carrying a reusable water bottle. Thanks to Dubai’s sustainability efforts, free water refill stations are available throughout the city, helping you stay hydrated without extra cost.
Dress Wisely: Combat the Dubai Heat with Appropriate Attire
Your wardrobe choices can mean victory or defeat against the Dubai heat. Embrace lightweight, light-coloured cotton and linen garments for their reflective properties and the comfort they provide. They are not just clothes; they are your tactical gear for air circulation and staying cool. Loose clothing is a real game-changer in the heat.

“The day I wore heavy denim shorts and a thick knitted crop in Dubai’s scorching heat is a day I will never forget. Drenched in perspiration and feeling utterly uncomfortable, we had no choice but to retreat to our hotel for a refreshing second shower within one morning.
A clear example of the inappropriate clothing to avoid wearing in the Dubai heat.”
– Nadia Kolbe


Footwear: Stay Cool from the Ground Up in the Dubai Heat
In the Dubai heat, your feet need to breathe too. Opt for comfortable, supportive, and airy footwear to keep cool as you explore.
Shade and Timing: Your Maneuvering Tactics in the Dubai Heat
Seeking shade during peak heat times and scheduling outdoor excursions during cooler periods are critical maneuvers in your Dubai heat survival strategy. Utilise Dubai’s air-conditioned havens during midday and save your outdoor quests for dawn or dusk to avoid the heat’s zenith.
An early morning desert safari is a smart choice in Dubai. It lets you beat the intense heat of midday. Our half-day excursion began at dawn. This is when the desert air is still cool and the sand holds the night’s chill.
As the sun rose, so did the temperatures. We felt the change within just two hours. The desert’s early morning calm gave way to the midday sizzle. It was a clear demonstration of Dubai’s summer heat.
This stark contrast underscored the importance of timing when planning outdoor activities in Dubai—timing that could mean the difference between a comfortable excursion and an overwhelming confrontation with the desert’s intense warmth.
Click here to read our guide on free and affordable attractions you won’t want to miss in Dubai.
Quality Eyewear: Your Visionary Defence Against the Dubai Heat
Do not underestimate the power of high-quality sunglasses with UV protection. They are your essential accessory to preserve your vision against the harsh Dubai sun rays. Nadia forgot to pack her Ray-bans for our trip and felt traumatised by it’s absence (dramatic much, but that’s honestly how it went). While there, we purchased two pairs of sunglasses at Aldo thinking it would serve the purpose. It didn’t! We wasted money. Lesson learned. Don’t be like us, double check that you’ve packed them before leaving for your trip – it’s essential.
By following these tips, you can safeguard your health and comfort in the Dubai heat. Be vigilant for signs of heat-related illnesses, and ensure you prioritise safety while enjoying the vibrant city of Dubai. These strategies may seem simple, yet they are effective in combating the Dubai heat and will enhance your Dubai experience.
We hope our insights help you navigate the warmth and make the most of your time in this vibrant city.
How have you kept cool in the Dubai heat? Share your own desert tales and city escapades below. Your strategies and stories are invaluable, and together, we can compile a treasure trove of tips for taming the temperatures.
Don’t forget to hit the social sharing buttons—spread the word and let’s help everyone make their Dubai visit as cool as a desert night. Whether it’s a hidden gem that offered respite from the sun or a dawn expedition that beat the Dubai heat. Your contributions are the shade beneath which the community can gather.
Join the conversation. Share your Dubai heat survival tips. Let’s keep the adventure alive, comfortably cool, and endlessly exciting.
Until our next post!
With love and appreciation,
The Kolbes
These tips are based on our personal experiences during our travels. You may have different experiences and alternative opinions based on your own travels. These are not meant to act as directives, instead they are suggestions which may be helpful to someone planning their first trip.
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Destination: Dubai, United Arab Emirates