Dubai
City in United Arab Emirates
Dubai is a city in the United Arab Emirates with a population of about 3.9 million as of 2025. It is not the country's capital; that is Abu Dhabi, which lies 129 km away. Visitors travel here to see landmarks ranging from the Burj Khalifa and the Museum of the Future to the Palm Islands and the Burj Al Arab.
What to see
The city contains many architectural structures, such as the Burj Khalifa, the Emirates Towers, the Museum of the Future, and the Dubai Frame. Coastal and maritime sites include Jumeirah Beach, the Palm Islands, the Burj Al Arab, and the Port of Jebel Ali. The districts of Deira and Bur Dubai offer additional areas to explore within the city.
When to go
The climate is characterized by high heat during the summer months. From June to August, daily highs reach 40 °C. Temperatures are more moderate during the winter, specifically in December, January, and February, when daily highs range from 23 °C to 25 °C. Rain is infrequent in Dubai. The wettest month is March, which sees 28 mm of rain, while other months often receive very little precipitation.
Getting there
Travelers can reach the city via Dubai International Airport. This airport is located 7 km from the city.
Top sights in Dubai
Weather by month
The warmest month is August, with an average high of 41 °C. Rain is spread fairly evenly through the year.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average high, °C | 23 | 24 | 27 | 32 | 37 | 39 | 40 | 41 | 38 | 35 | 30 | 25 |
| Average low, °C | 16 | 16 | 18 | 21 | 25 | 27 | 30 | 30 | 28 | 25 | 21 | 17 |
| Rainfall, mm | 19 | 26 | 28 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 21 |
| Rainy days | 3 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
Temperatures and rainfall: 1981–2010 averages for Dubai (4 km grid), from CHELSA. Rainy days: 2015–2024, NASA POWER.
Also worth a look
- Al Bastakiya
- Deira Clocktower
- Dubai Dolphinarium
- Dubai Fountain
- Dubai Miracle Garden
- Dubai Museum
- E 311 road
- Etihad Museum
- Grand Mosque of Dubai
- Iranian Mosque, Bur Dubai
- Jumeirah Mosque
- Safa Park
- Zabeel Park