The ultimate summer guide to Dubai—glide through the shark tank, enjoy water skiing at sunrise, and even ski indoors.
Surviving the summer in Dubai is usually about finding ways to avoid the scorching desert sun, but you don’t have to hide indoors in the air conditioning. There are plenty of ways to make the most of the summer months, and you might even discover things about Dubai you never knew before. The city offers many ways to beat the heat, from water parks and shopping festivals to nighttime desert safaris. This collection of the best summer activities in Dubai is the perfect guide to staying cool and having fun.
A quick look at the best summer activities in Dubai:
The best water park for relaxation: Don’t miss Wild Wadi Waterpark, one of the largest water parks in Dubai.
Unique events in Dubai in the summer: Dubai Summer Surprises is a shopping sale festival that lasts throughout the summer.
An unusual summer activity in Dubai: Try indoor skiing on real snow at Ski Dubai.
1. Enjoy swimming at Aquaventure Waterpark
The Dubai heat can make you feel like you’re slowly roasting in an oven, which is why you should head to Aquaventure Waterpark, one of the best summer activities in Dubai. It’s the perfect way to cool off thanks to its thrilling water slides, including the famous “Leap of Faith” slide that sends you flying through a lagoon filled with sharks. Plus, it’s part of Atlantis, The Palm, so you can spend the day in true luxury.
Why do you do that in the summer?
The scorching sun makes a plunge into the lazy river feel like a luxurious dip, and you can escape the harsh desert heat for a few hours. There are also fewer tourists during these hot months, so the queues for the best slides are shorter.
Address and opening hours:
Atlantis The Palm, Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. Open daily from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm.
2. Shop till you drop at Dubai Summer Surprises festival
No Dubai summer is complete without the annual Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) festival. Think of it as Black Friday, but all summer long. From shopping malls to outlet stores, there are huge discounts everywhere, plus entertainment, raffles, and giveaways.
Why is this done in the summer?
Summer is peak shopping season, and thanks to the incredible offers during Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), it’s the perfect time to snag those luxury items on your wish list. Air-conditioned malls like the magnificent Dubai Mall offer a welcome escape from the scorching sun.
Address and opening hours:
The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSS) is held from June to August, and the operating hours of shopping malls are usually from 10:00 am until midnight during the festival.
3. Enjoy relaxing at Wild Wadi Waterpark
If being launched from a giant water cannon or riding a wave pool sounds like fun, then Wild Wadi is for you. Another must-see on any Dubai summer itinerary, it’s located next to the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel. This park is packed with water slides and features a lazy river that will keep you refreshed and entertained for hours.
Why go there in the summer?
Wild Wadi offers everything from thrilling water rides to relaxing pools, and frankly, who wouldn’t want to slide down a water slide with views of one of the world’s most famous hotels?
Address and opening hours:
Jumeirah Road, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
4. Embark on an evening desert safari.
A daytime desert safari is a difficult option in Dubai’s summer, but once the sun sets, it’s a completely different experience. Head to the desert to scoop up the dunes and dine under the stars.
Why do you do that in the summer?
Enjoy the desert experience with the evening breeze, making the adventure more relaxing.
5. Enjoy early morning surfing at Kite Beach
Before the sun turns the sand to lava, head to Kite Beach for early morning water sports like jet skiing or paddleboarding. The water is warm, the waves are calm, and you’ll feel like you’ve had your whole day before 9:00 AM. Nobody’s awake yet, so the beach is all yours.
Why do you do that in the summer?
Summer mornings in Dubai are your best friend. You can get your adrenaline rush before the city heats up, then relax with a fresh juice from one of the beachfront cafes.
Address and opening hours:
Kite Beach, Umm Suqeim, Dubai. Open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
6. Take a night cruise in Dubai Marina
Spending an evening in Dubai Marina is truly a magical experience. A nighttime cruise around the marina on a traditional dhow offers views of beautifully lit skyscrapers without the intense daytime heat — one of the best activities suggested in Dubai at night.
Why do you do that in the summer?
After sunset, Dubai Marina transforms into a completely different scene. Enjoying the cool breeze and a refreshing cruise through the heart of the city is the perfect way to end a summer day.
7. Build a snowman on the indoor slope at Ski Dubai
When the temperature outside reaches 104°F, the last thing you’d expect is skiing down slopes, but in Dubai, anything is possible. Ski Dubai is one of the most fun and unique summer activities in Dubai, offering a surreal skiing and snowboarding experience while it’s sweltering outside.
Why do you do that in the summer?
The temperatures at Ski Dubai, which are 24.8°F, are literally a breath of fresh air. When you ski on the indoor mountain, you’ll forget you’re in the desert.
Address and opening hours:
Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Dubai in Summer: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best summer activities in Dubai?
Water parks like Aquaventure and Wild Wadi are must-visit destinations for a refreshing dip, while indoor attractions like Ski Dubai offer a cooler escape. Desert safaris and evening cruises around Dubai Marina are at their best on cooler evenings, and shopping malls are brimming with entertainment, from cinemas to inland beaches.
What are some of the best day trips from Dubai in the summer?
Head to the cooler Hatta Mountains for a day of kayaking, hiking, and exploring the Hatta Dam. Al Ain is known for its lush greenery and cultural heritage sites, including the Al Ain Oasis and Jebel Hafeet. For a beach holiday, the East Coast offers the stunning beaches of Fujairah, where temperatures are generally more temperate.
What should I pack in my suitcase for a summer trip to Dubai?
Pack light, breathable clothing, such as cotton T-shirts, loose-fitting trousers, and summer dresses. Although it’s hot outside, many indoor spaces like shopping malls and restaurants can be quite chilly, so bring a light jacket or shawl. Don’t forget high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. Keep in mind that the UAE values modesty, so while beachwear is appropriate for the beach and pool, you should dress modestly in other public places.
What can I do with the children in Dubai during the summer?
In Dubai, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly activities to keep children entertained. Indoor themed theme parks, such as IMG Worlds of Adventure and VR Park in The Dubai Mall, offer endless hours of fun. Aquaventure and Legoland Water Park are great options for enjoying a refreshing dip on the slides and lazy rivers.
Are there any summer events or festivals in Dubai?
Yes, Dubai hosts Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), a multi-month-long shopping and entertainment festival packed with huge discounts, live performances, and prize draws. Another event worth noting is Dubai Sports World, an indoor venue offering everything from football to tennis in air-conditioned facilities.