Dubai in September marks the beginning of a pleasant transition from scorching summer heat to more comfortable temperatures. The city buzzes with shopping festivals, indoor entertainment, and the reopening of several outdoor activities as the evenings cool down.
If you’re looking for fewer crowds, better hotel rates, and a mix of indoor luxury and outdoor adventures, Dubai is an excellent destination to visit in September. Here’s everything you need to know about Dubai in September and how to plan your vacation.
Is September a Good Time to Visit Dubai?
September in Dubai marks the transition from extreme summer heat to more moderate temperatures. You can expect warm days but increasingly comfortable evenings. September is considered the shoulder season, which means fewer tourists, shorter lines at attractions, and more attractive discounts on accommodations and activities.
Why Should You Visit?
September is a good time to visit Dubai if you’re looking for better deals. The hotel rates are lower than peak season, and you’ll find fewer crowds at major attractions. The evenings begin to cool down, making outdoor activities more enjoyable after sunset.
September also offers great shopping opportunities with various sales and promotions happening across the city. The beaches become more comfortable to visit in the late afternoon and evening hours.
What to Look Out For?
When planning your Dubai trip for September, keep these points in mind:
- Early September can still be quite hot during daytime hours.
- Plan indoor activities during the hottest part of the day (11 AM to 3 PM).
- Evening desert safaris are more comfortable than daytime excursions.
- Some outdoor attractions might have reduced hours.
- Humidity can be high, so stay hydrated.
- Bring light, breathable clothing but also pack a light jacket for heavily air-conditioned indoor spaces.
- Book tickets for major attractions in advance to avoid queues.
Suggested Read: Dubai Visa for Indians
Weather in Dubai in September
Here’s what to expect in terms of Dubai weather in September:
|
Temperature |
27°C – 40°C (80°F – 104°F) |
|
Humidity |
High (60-70%) |
|
Chance of Rain |
Very low |
|
Daylight |
Approximately 12.5 hours |
|
Sunrise |
Around 6:00 AM |
|
Sunset |
Around 6:30 PM |
|
Sea Temperature |
Around 32°C (90°F) |
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Things To Do in Dubai in September
Some exciting things to do in Dubai in September:
Visit Dubai Mall and Shop at End-of-Season Sales
Location: Downtown Dubai
Why It’s Great in September: The Dubai Mall offers a perfect escape from the September heat with its world-class air conditioning. Many stores run end-of-season sales during September, making it an excellent time for shopping bargains.
What to Expect:
- Over 1,200 retail stores featuring international and local brands
- The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
- The Dubai Fountain shows every 30 minutes in the evening
- VR Park for interactive entertainment
- A vast food court with cuisines from around the world
- Kidzania for family entertainment
Experience a Desert Safari
Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and various desert areas around Dubai
Why It’s Great in September: Evening desert safaris become more comfortable as September progresses and temperatures begin to drop. The sunset views over the dunes are spectacular, and you can experience traditional Arabian hospitality.
What to Expect:
- Thrilling dune bashing in 4×4 vehicles
- Camel riding experiences
- Sandboarding down the dunes
- Falcon shows and henna painting
- Traditional Arabic dinner under the stars
- Belly dancing and Tanoura shows at desert camps
- Stargazing in the clear desert sky
Enjoy Dubai’s Water Parks
Location: Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm and Wild Wadi Waterpark near Burj Al Arab
Why It’s Great in September: Water parks provide refreshing relief from the September heat. With fewer tourists, you’ll enjoy shorter queues for the popular slides and attractions.
What to Expect:
- Thrilling water slides and attractions for all ages
- Wave pools and lazy rivers
- Private cabanas available for rent
- Restaurants and refreshment stands
- Aquaventure offers The Tower of Neptune and The Tower of Poseidon with record-breaking slides
- Wild Wadi features the Jumeirah Sceirah, one of the tallest and fastest free-fall water slides outside North America
Visit the Top of Burj Khalifa
Location: Downtown Dubai
Why It’s Great in September: With fewer tourists, you might find better availability for prime sunset viewing times. The observation decks are fully air-conditioned, providing a comfortable environment to enjoy spectacular views.
What to Expect:
- At the Top (Level 124 & 125) or At the Top SKY (Level 148) observation decks
- Unparalleled views of Dubai and beyond
- Interactive displays about the building’s construction
- High-powered telescopes to zoom in on city landmarks
- The Lounge (Levels 152, 153, and 154) for dining experiences
- Book sunset slots in advance for breathtaking views as the city lights up
Try Indoor Skiing at Ski Dubai
Location: Mall of the Emirates
Why It’s Great in September: Ski Dubai offers a stark contrast to the September heat outside, with temperatures maintained at -1°C to -2°C. It’s a unique experience to go from desert heat to alpine snow in minutes.
What to Expect:
- 22,500 square meters of indoor ski area
- Five slopes of varying difficulty
- A Penguin Encounter experience
- Snow Park with toboggan runs, climbing towers, and a snowball throwing area
- All necessary winter clothing and equipment provided
- Several cafés inside where you can enjoy hot chocolate with views of the slopes
Take a Dhow Cruise
Location: Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina
Why It’s Great in September: Evening Dhow cruises benefit from the cooler September evenings. The breeze off the water makes for a pleasant dining experience as you take in the illuminated skyline.
What to Expect:
- Traditional wooden dhow boats transformed into floating restaurants
- Buffet dinner with international and Arabic cuisine
- Entertainment such as Tanoura dancing
- Spectacular views of Dubai’s illuminated skyline
- Dubai Creek cruises offer views of the old city and heritage buildings
- Dubai Marina cruises showcase modern skyscrapers and luxury yachts
Visit the Museum of the Future
Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, near Emirates Towers
Why It’s Great in September: This fully indoor attraction provides a perfect escape from the September heat while offering an educational and thought-provoking experience about future technologies and innovations.
What to Expect:
- Stunning torus-shaped building with Arabic calligraphy exterior
- Interactive exhibits showcasing future technologies
- Immersive experiences about space exploration, ecology, and health
- Virtual and augmented reality installations
- Exhibits on artificial intelligence and its impact on human life
- Advanced ticket booking recommended due to popularity
Explore Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
Location:Bur Dubai, near Dubai Creek
Why It’s Great in September: The narrow alleyways and wind towers of this historical district provide natural cooling. Early morning or evening visits in September allow you to explore this cultural area comfortably.
What to Expect:
- Traditional wind tower architecture dating back to the 1890s
- Dubai Museum housed in the Al Fahidi Fort
- Coffee Museum showcasing the rich coffee traditions of the region
- Art galleries featuring local and international artists
- Cultural centers offering insights into Emirati heritage
- Quaint cafés and restaurants serving local cuisine
- The nearby textile souks for traditional fabrics
Visit Global Village (If Open in Late September)
Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311)
Why It’s Great in September: If Global Village opens in late September (opening dates vary each year), you can be among the first visitors of the season and enjoy the outdoor multicultural attraction in the cooler evening temperatures.
What to Expect:
- More than 25 pavilions representing different countries and cultures
- International cuisine from around the world
- Live entertainment and cultural performances
- Carnival rides and games
- Handicrafts and souvenirs from different countries
- Themed streets representing various regions
- Usually opens in late October, but check the official website for current year’s opening dates
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Places to See in Dubai in September
From exploring air-conditioned malls to visiting historical districts in the cooler evenings, Dubai offers numerous attractions suitable for September visits. Here are the top places to see in Dubai in September:
Dubai Frame
Located in Zabeel Park, the Dubai Frame is an iconic architectural landmark that literally “frames” old and new Dubai. From one side, you view the historic areas of Deira, Umm Hurair, and Karama, while from the other side, you see the modern skyline of Downtown Dubai.
The 150-meter-tall structure features a 93-meter-long glass bridge at the top, offering panoramic views. The indoor galleries are fully air-conditioned, making this a perfect September attraction.
The Palm Jumeirah
This artificial archipelago shaped like a palm tree is one of Dubai’s most ambitious projects. In September, you can visit the luxury hotels, restaurants, and attractions on the Palm in the evening hours when temperatures are more comfortable.
Don’t miss Atlantis, The Palm with its lost chambers aquarium, or the newly opened viewing deck at The Palm Tower offering spectacular 360-degree views of the Palm and Dubai skyline.
Dubai Creek and Al Seef
Dubai Creek is where the city’s story began. This saltwater creek divides the city into two parts: Deira and Bur Dubai. Al Seef is a charming development along the creek that blends traditional and modern architecture.
In September evenings, the area comes alive with waterfront dining, traditional abra (water taxi) rides, and walking paths along the creek. Visit the nearby spice and gold souks for an authentic Dubai experience.
Jumeirah Mosque
One of the few mosques in Dubai open to non-Muslims, Jumeirah Mosque offers guided tours through its “Open Doors, Open Minds” program. The beautiful white stone mosque is built in the medieval Fatimid tradition with modern Islamic elements.
Tours are available several times a week and include explanations about Islamic culture and religion. As a fully indoor activity with modest dress requirements, it’s comfortable to visit even in September’s warmth.
Dubai Marina
This artificial canal city built along a 3 km stretch of the Arabian Gulf shoreline is home to luxury apartments, hotels, and a vibrant nightlife. The Marina Walk is particularly pleasant in September evenings when temperatures cool down.
Enjoy waterfront dining, yacht-watching, or shop at Marina Mall. The area is especially beautiful at night when the skyscrapers light up and reflect on the water.
Madinat Jumeirah
Styled as a traditional Arabian town, Madinat Jumeirah combines hotels, private villas, restaurants, and a traditional souk, all connected by scenic waterways. The shaded walkways and indoor areas make it a good September destination.
Take an abra ride through the waterways, shop at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, or dine at one of the many restaurants with views of Burj Al Arab.
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Dubai Events in September
Here are some exciting events in September that you can attend on your trip to Dubai:
1. Dubai Home Festival
When: Usually early to mid-September
Location: Various malls and home stores across Dubai
2. Gitex Shopper
When: Late September (dates vary annually)
Location: Dubai World Trade Centre
3. Dubai International Dance Festival
When: Varies (sometimes held in September)
Location: Various venues across Dubai
4. Theatre and Musical Performances
When: Throughout September
Location: Dubai Opera, Coca-Cola Arena, and other venues
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Things to Know Before Visiting Dubai in September
- Heat Management: While September is transitional, daytime temperatures can still be quite hot. Plan indoor activities during peak heat hours (11 AM – 3 PM) and outdoor activities for early morning or evening.
- Ramadan Considerations: If Ramadan falls in September (varies yearly based on the Islamic calendar), be aware that eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is prohibited. Many restaurants may be closed during the day but open after sunset.
- Dress Code Awareness: Dubai is relatively liberal but still respects Islamic traditions. Dress modestly in public places, especially religious sites and government buildings. Beachwear is fine at beaches and pool areas only.
- Weekend Planning: The UAE weekend is Friday and Saturday, with Sunday being a regular working day. Tourist attractions and malls are typically busier on these days.
- Tipping Culture: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Dubai. Many restaurants add a service charge, but an additional 10-15% for good service is customary.
What to Pack for Dubai in September?
|
Summer Clothing |
Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen |
|
Modest Attire |
Clothes covering shoulders and knees for malls, religious sites |
|
Swimwear |
For beaches and hotel pools |
|
Sun Protection |
High SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat |
|
Light Jacket/Shawl |
For heavily air-conditioned indoor spaces |
|
Comfortable Footwear |
For walking in malls and tourist attractions |
|
Evening Wear |
Smart casual for restaurants and nightlife venues |
|
Refillable Water Bottle |
To stay hydrated in the heat |
What to Wear in Dubai in September?
Dubai has a mix of traditional Islamic culture and modern international influences. Your wardrobe should be comfortable, practical, and respectful of local customs.
For public places like malls, restaurants, and tourist attractions, choose lightweight but modest clothing. Women should avoid very short shorts, skirts, or revealing tops in public areas. Men should avoid sleeveless shirts in malls and public buildings.
At private beach clubs, hotel pools, and public beaches, standard swimwear is acceptable. For desert safaris, comfortable clothing with closed-toe shoes is recommended. Evening dining and entertainment venues often have a smart-casual or formal dress code.
Transport in Dubai in September
- Dubai Metro: Clean, efficient, and fully air-conditioned. The Red Line connects the airport to many major attractions.
- Taxis: Widely available and metered. Dubai taxis are relatively affordable compared to other global cities.
- Ride-hailing Apps: Uber and Careem operate throughout Dubai.
- Public Buses: Comprehensive network covering areas not served by the metro. All buses are air-conditioned.
- Water Taxis/Abras: Traditional boats crossing Dubai Creek cost just 1 AED per trip.
- Rental Cars: International driving licenses are accepted. Roads are well-maintained, but traffic can be heavy during rush hours.
- Monorail: Connects the mainland to Palm Jumeirah, with stops at major hotels and Atlantis.
Where to Stay in Dubai in September?
Dubai offers accommodation options for every budget. In September, as it’s shoulder season, you might find attractive deals at luxury properties. Consider staying in:
Luxury Hotels: Dubai is famous for its 5-star and ultra-luxury properties. September rates are often lower than peak season. Top areas include:
Mid-range Hotels: Good value options in convenient locations include close to Downtown at Business Bay, Dubai Marina, Al Barsha, among others.
Budget Options: Dubai has increasingly more affordable options in traditional spaces with lower-priced hotels in Deira, Bur Dubai and other budget hotels near metro stations.
What to Eat in Dubai in September?
Dubai’s culinary scene is incredibly diverse, reflecting its international population. Must-try dishes and dining experiences include:
- Emirati Cuisine: Try traditional dishes like Al Machboos (spiced rice with meat), Luqaimat (sweet dumplings), and camel meat at restaurants like Al Fanar.
- Arabic and Middle Eastern: Savor hummus, tabbouleh, mixed grills, and manakeesh at Lebanese, Syrian, and Egyptian restaurants throughout the city.
- Indian Cuisine: Dubai has excellent Indian restaurants ranging from street food to fine dining, particularly in areas like Bur Dubai and Karama.
- International Fine Dining: World-renowned chefs operate restaurants in Dubai’s luxury hotels, offering everything from French to Japanese cuisine.
- Street Food: Visit Al Dhiyafa Road (known as “2nd December Street”) for authentic Pakistani and Indian street food.
- Food Trucks: The Last Exit and various beach locations host food trucks serving creative international cuisine.
- Friday Brunch: A Dubai institution, featuring extensive buffets and unlimited drinks at many hotels and restaurants.
- Seafood: Fresh catches from the Arabian Gulf prepared in various international styles.
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FAQs
Is September a good time to visit Dubai?
Yes, September is a good time to visit Dubai if you’re looking for better deals and fewer crowds. While daytime temperatures can still be hot (around 38-40°C), evenings become more pleasant as the month progresses. It’s considered a shoulder season with lower hotel rates and shorter lines at attractions.
How hot is Dubai in September?
Dubai is still quite warm in September with average high temperatures around 38-40°C (100-104°F) and lows around 28-30°C (82-86°F). The heat becomes more bearable towards the end of the month, especially in the evenings.
What is the average temperature in Dubai in September?
The average temperature in Dubai during September ranges from 27-40°C (80-104°F). Mornings and evenings are more comfortable than midday hours. The sea temperature averages around 32°C (90°F), making swimming pleasant throughout the day.
What to wear in Dubai in September?
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing like cotton shirts, dresses, shorts, and trousers. For public places, modest attire is recommended (covering shoulders and knees). Bring swimwear for beaches and pools. A light jacket might be useful for heavily air-conditioned indoor spaces. Don’t forget sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen.
Is it safe to visit Dubai in September?
Yes, Dubai is considered one of the safest cities for tourists year-round, including September. The main safety concern is the heat, so take precautions like staying hydrated, using sun protection, and planning outdoor activities for mornings or evenings.
What are the best places to visit in Dubai in September?
The best places to visit in Dubai during September include indoor attractions like Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Museum of the Future, and Burj Khalifa. In the evenings, Dubai Marina, JBR Beach, Global Village (if open), and desert safaris are excellent options as temperatures cool down.
Are outdoor attractions open in Dubai during September?
Yes, outdoor attractions remain open in Dubai during September, though some may have adjusted hours. Water parks, beaches, desert safari tours, and garden attractions all operate, but it’s advisable to visit early morning or evening to avoid peak heat. Some seasonal attractions like Miracle Garden typically remain closed until October or November.
Can tourists enjoy Dubai in September?
Yes, tourists can definitely enjoy Dubai in September. The city offers numerous indoor attractions perfectly suited for warmer days, including world-class malls, museums, indoor theme parks, and aquariums. Evenings are increasingly pleasant for outdoor activities like desert safaris, marina cruises, and beachfront dining.
