Everything you need to know about visiting Dubai in September

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September is the month that can catch most visitors off guard regarding the weather and what to expect in Dubai.

Dubai remains incredibly hot in September. While the temperature might drop slightly off August summer peaks, the humidity remains, and many will say September actually feels hotter.

Schools are back locally, meaning much life and activity returns to the city. Many social events start to fire back up, and it can be less crowded in tourist venues than in August, with fewer stopover passengers through DXB.

Make no mistake, it’s still not pleasant sunbathing weather throughout the middle of the day. However, you can pick up a bargain trip in the sun in September and have a lot of fun in Dubai.

In this Dubai September guide:

Dubai Weather in September

Average daytime highs can reach 39.2°C (102.5°F), but extreme days can still reach 45.1°C (113.2°F). The daytime average temperature in September is 33°C (91.4°F). The “feels like” temperature (which considers humidity and wind chill) is usually much higher.

Water temperatures remain hot throughout the month; expect an average sea temperature of 32.6°C (90.7°F). To enjoy a splash in Dubai in September, you will still want a resort pool with a chiller!

You can read our complete guide to Dubai Weather in September here and our suggested ideas of what to pack for Dubai in September.

Dubai Special Events in September 2024

  • Bollywood-lovers, look out for Farhan Akhtar performing live at Coca-Cola Arena on 1st of September
  • Fun Filipino band Parokya Ni Edgar brings their own brand of satirical covers and rock to the stage on 1 September – CocaCola Arena
  • Lebanese-born US stand-up comic Nataly Aukar will perform her live comedy show on 8 September 2024 at Zabeel Theatre
  • Global superstar Enrique Iglesias is due to return to town on 13 September at CocoCola Arena
  • The Prophet Mohammed’s birthday will fall on approximately 15 September 2024 – sometimes a public holiday is observed
  • Saudi National Day – recognising their neighbour and ally, there are always lots of colourful celebrations around town, including the lighting of the Burj Khalifa for Saudi National Day on September 23
  • The Polish National Opera will perform Giuseppe Vderdi’s Aida from 13-15 September 2024. This will be followed by the Polish National Ballet & Opera presenting Giselle from 18 to 21 September and Beethoven’s 9th Symphony on 22 September 2024 at Dubai Opera
  • Finishing off the September program, Italian-French singer-songwriter Carla Bruni takes the stage on 27 September 2024 – Dubai Opera
  • For the kids, There’s a Monster in Your Show will be playing on 21-22 September 2024Zabeel Theatre
  • We’re expecting the much-anticipated grand opening of J1 Beach (the previous location of La Mer Beach) in September 2024, bringing a stellar lineup of new dining concepts to the city

Suggested Dubai Activities in September 2024

You can keep playing tourist around Dubai, even in the hottest months, with many attractions indoors and air-conditioned. It might still be a little uncomfortably hot for the beach or desert, but look out for these attractions.

  • Visit the Museum of the Future—it is not just a spectacular building but also offers incredible insight into society’s future. The first two floors can be seen for free, but we highly recommend advance booking your tickets for the complete experience.
  • The Dubai Frame – Get a bird’s-eye view of how old meets new in this sensational Dubai attraction. Literally a giant frame, you ascend 48 floors above the city in a glass elevator, then walk the see-through glass floor if you dare! To one side, the old city of Deira and onwards to Sharjah; on the other, superb views of Downtown and the Burj Khalifa.
  • Speaking of heights, how would you feel taking a glass slide over Downtown Dubai? Test your nerves at Sky View Observatory.
  • On a luxury yacht, cruise with airconditioned comfort around the Dubai Marina at night.
  • Treat yourself to an indulgent spa day during the off-peak season at a luxury resort.
  • Try the record-breaking Deep Dive Dubai – the deepest indoor pool in the world where you can take scuba diving lessons.
  • Check out the stage show spectacular La Perle at Al Habtoor City.
  • Check out the city’s fun cafe scene with one of these incredible breakfasts.
Dubai Marina is a beautiful night spot to enjoy in Dubai

Dubai Family Activities in September 2024

With the little ones locally back to school from the end of August, September is a much quieter month at many of the city’s family attractions.

We would argue it’s still a little too hot outside to indulge in the famous waterparks, but you still might find some cooling water fun in the early evenings:

Dubai Day Trips in September 2024

Whilst it is still quite hot for getting out and about, grab yourself an airconditioned set of wheels and consider these day trips within easy driving distance of Dubai:

  • Neighbouring Abu Dhabi has plenty of indoor cultural attractions that should be on any UAE visitor’s wish list – think the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Watan – the Presidential Palace, and partially inside, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
  • If you’re more of a theme park fan, head to Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island – Ferrari World, SeaWorld, and Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi are almost entirely indoor theme parks.
  • Stay at incredible glamping locations in Hatta for the full outdoor eco experience (just remember plenty of sunshine and hydration!!) – Hatta normally reopens for the season towards the end of September.

More Frequently Asked Questions about Dubai in September

Is September a good time to visit Dubai?

This depends a little on your tolerance for heat! Temperatures in Dubai in September still regularly exceed 40°C, and humidity can be high, so it’s still a little hot for most outdoor activities. Not all seasonal events have returned post-summer. However, tourist numbers tend to be at their lowest, and it’s the best time to bag a bargain without the crowds.

When is Sunset in September in Dubai?

Sunset in September is 6:38 PM at the start of the month, changing to 6:06 PM by the end of September.

What should I wear in Dubai in September?

As it is still very hot in Dubai in September, you should dress appropriately for the weather, while observing the usual dress code rules in Dubai for cultural respect. Loose cotton and linen clothing works great in the heat.

As a general rule of thumb, shoulders and knees covered for men and women when out in public. You can find our complete Dubai packing list here.



Before you go… More important things you should know when planning a trip to Dubai


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