The best time to visit United Arab Emirates
The best time to visit United Arab Emirates for warm, sunny weather is November to February, when its destinations average a Sunshine Score of 97/100 with daytime highs around 25°C / 77°F. October and March are quieter shoulder-season alternatives with still-reliable sun. Midsummer peaks in June at about 39°C / 102°F — hot for sightseeing, ideal for the coast. The sea is swimmable (21°C+) year-round, warmest in July at 35°C.
United Arab Emirates by month, averaged across 4 destinations from long-term climate normals — the best stretch is highlighted.
| Month | Sunshine Score | Avg day high | Rain | Sea | For a trip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 96 | 22° / 72°F | 20 mm | 22° | Excellent |
| February | 98 | 24° / 75°F | 9 mm | 22° | Excellent |
| March | 97 | 27° / 81°F | 16 mm | 24° | Excellent |
| April | 94 | 31° / 88°F | 7 mm | 26° | Excellent |
| May | 59 | 36° / 97°F | 3 mm | 30° | Very good |
| June | 35 | 39° / 102°F | 4 mm | 33° | Mixed |
| July | 30 | 39° / 102°F | 2 mm | 35° | Mixed |
| August | 32 | 39° / 102°F | 2 mm | 35° | Mixed |
| September | 47 | 37° / 99°F | 2 mm | 34° | Good |
| October | 85 | 34° / 93°F | 2 mm | 32° | Excellent |
| November | 98 | 28° / 82°F | 8 mm | 29° | Excellent |
| December | 97 | 24° / 75°F | 12 mm | 25° | Excellent |
When to go — and when to think twice
Best overall: November to February — United Arab Emirates' warmest, most reliable stretch (Sunshine Score 97/100, ~25°C / 77°F days). Shoulder season: October and March — quieter, still sunny. Hottest: June, ~39°C / 102°F. Rain stays light most of the year (~87 mm total).
Where to base yourself for sunshine: Dubai (3,509 h/yr), Abu Dhabi (3,460 h/yr), Sharjah (3,416 h/yr). See every United Arab Emirates destination with a full climate card, or where it's sunny worldwide, month by month.