Dubai in December – Weather, Events, What to Pack & Where to Go
December is one of the most exciting months to visit Dubai. The weather is cool and pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing, beach days, and outdoor adventures. With holiday vibes, world-famous events, and amazing shopping deals, Dubai in December feels magical for travelers from around the world.
Weather in Dubai in December
Dubai has a desert climate, but December brings a refreshing change. Temperatures are mild, and the air is crisp, especially during the evenings.
| Weather Feature | Average Value |
|---|---|
| Daytime Temperature | 25°C (77°F) |
| Night Temperature | 16°C (60°F) |
| Rainfall | 6-15 mm (occasional) |
| Humidity | 55% (comfortable) |
| Sunshine Hours | 8-9 hours per day |
This weather is ideal for beach outings, desert safaris, and long walks in outdoor markets and gardens.
Why December Is the Best Month to Visit Dubai
- Perfect Weather: No need to worry about intense heat
- Festive Vibes: Christmas and New Year decorations everywhere
- Events Galore: Dubai Shopping Festival, UAE National Day, concerts, beach parties
- Ideal for All Ages: Comfortable for seniors and kids alike
- Best for Outdoor Activities: From desert adventures to yacht cruises
Top Events in Dubai During December
UAE National Day – December 2
- Celebrated with fireworks, flags, parades, and cultural shows
- Visit Global Village for themed pavilions and national displays
Dubai Shopping Festival (Late Dec – Jan)
- Huge discounts across malls and markets
- Fashion shows, raffles, fireworks, and family entertainment
- Visit top malls and landmarks for exclusive deals
Christmas in Dubai
- Malls have giant Christmas trees, ice rinks, and Santa corners
- Try festive brunches at celebrity restaurants
- Dubai Miracle Garden is a colorful photo spot during this time
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
- Fireworks at Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina
- Luxury dinners and yacht parties
What to Pack for Dubai in December
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Light Jacket | Evenings get breezy |
| Sunglasses | Bright sunny days |
| Sunscreen | Still important for outdoor trips |
| Modest Outfits | For malls, mosques, and old Dubai |
| Festive Clothes | For dinners and New Year’s Eve |
Things to Do in December
Go on a Desert Safari
Cool weather makes Platinum Desert Safari experiences more enjoyable. Dune bashing, camel rides, and BBQ dinners are less tiring.
Enjoy Water Activities
You can still swim in the sea or book private yachts, sunset cruises, or seaplane rides.
Explore Gardens and Parks
Winter is the perfect time to visit parks and gardens like Dubai Miracle Garden, Zabeel Park, and Creek Park.
Visit Theme Parks
Cooler temperatures make it fun to explore VIP theme parks like Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, or IMG Worlds of Adventure.
Day Trips Worth Taking in December
- Abu Dhabi – See the Grand Mosque and Louvre
- Hatta – Kayaking, mountains, and heritage village
- Al Ain – Zoo and green landscapes
These are best visited in December due to cool breezes and fewer crowds.
Where to Eat in December
- Michelin-Star Restaurants for luxury dining
- Best Restaurants for Brunch to enjoy festive weekends
- Cultural Food Spots for authentic Emirati dishes
Family Tips for Traveling in December
- Book hotels early – December is peak season
- Choose family rooms or suites
- Make dinner reservations ahead of time
- Bring light jackets for kids
- Use taxis or apps like Careem for easy travel
How Much to Budget
| Category | Daily Cost (AED) | Daily Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel | 500-1500 AED | $135-$410 |
| Food | 150-400 AED | $41-$110 |
| Transport | 30-100 AED | $8-$27 |
| Activities | 200-1000 AED | $55-$270 |
Best Beaches to Visit in December
December weather makes beach time very comfortable in Dubai. The sun isn’t too strong, and the sea remains warm.
Recommended Beaches:
- JBR Beach – Family-friendly with restaurants, showers, and kids’ play zones
- Kite Beach – Great for casual walks, paddleboarding, and food trucks
- La Mer – Stylish beach with boutique cafes, changing cabins, and shallow waters
- Al Mamzar Beach Park – Offers barbecue spots and shaded picnic areas
- Palm West Beach – Calm waters, perfect for morning walks and waterfront breakfasts
Each beach offers a unique experience. You can relax, enjoy watersports, or take photos with Dubai’s skyline in the background.
Top Places to Watch Fireworks on New Year’s Eve
Dubai is world-famous for its spectacular New Year’s fireworks. These are the best locations to catch the show:
| Location | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Burj Khalifa & Downtown Dubai | Iconic fireworks and fountain show. Go early to get a good spot. |
| Palm Jumeirah (The Pointe or Atlantis) | Stunning show reflected on the sea. |
| Dubai Marina | Great views from a yacht or beach restaurants. |
| Burj Al Arab / Jumeirah Beach | Exclusive setting, visible from public beaches nearby. |
Tip: Book your dinner, cruise, or hotel well in advance. NYE is one of the busiest nights in Dubai.
Best Spots for Outdoor Dining in December
Cool air and clear skies make December the ideal time for outdoor meals. Try these places for a memorable dining experience:
- Pierchic (Madinat Jumeirah) – Overwater seafood restaurant with stunning views
- The Beach at JBR – Casual dining with beach views and Christmas decorations
- Souk Madinat Jumeirah – Combines traditional charm with canal-side restaurants
- Dubai Marina Promenade – Restaurants with fairy lights and yachts passing by
- The View at The Palm – Have coffee or dinner with citywide views
Whether it’s a family brunch or romantic dinner, December evenings are ideal for eating outside.
Indoor Activities for Rainy Days
Though rare, December can have occasional light showers. If that happens, here are fun indoor ideas:
- Museum of the Future – Futuristic exhibits for adults and kids alike
- Dubai Mall Attractions – Aquarium, VR Park, Ice Rink, and KidZania
- The Green Planet – An indoor tropical rainforest experience
- Motiongate or IMG Worlds of Adventure – Indoor VIP theme parks with roller coasters, cartoon characters, and shows
- Dubai Opera – Catch a seasonal performance or musical
Rain never lasts long, but these places will keep your day exciting and dry.
Unique Winter Experiences in Dubai
Even though Dubai doesn’t snow, you can still enjoy winter-themed attractions:
- Ski Dubai – Real snow, penguins, and skiing inside Mall of the Emirates
- Snow Cinema (at Ski Dubai) – Watch a movie wrapped in a blanket with hot chocolate
- Winter Markets – Christmas-themed markets at Expo City, JLT Park, or Souk Madinat
- Ice Rink at Dubai Mall – A fun spot for couples and families
- Winter Wonderland (Bluewaters or City Walk) – Seasonal pop-ups with games, food, and photo zones
These attractions blend Dubai’s modern charm with festive spirit.
Travel Tips for Dubai in December
- Follow Dubai dress code at mosques and malls
- Use Tourist SIM to stay connected
- Respect local laws during festivals
- Watch out for scams and safety tips
Why BestDubaiPlaces.com Helps You Plan Better
- All activities listed in one place
- Currency tips, safety rules, and real ticket prices
- Friendly ideas for solo, family, or romantic trips
- No confusing words or extra research needed
👉 Planning a December trip? Contact Us for a customized travel plan.
FAQs
Is December a good time to visit Dubai?
Yes. It’s the best month for weather, events, and family travel.
What’s the weather like in December?
Pleasant days (25°C) and cool nights (16°C). Light jacket is enough.
Can I swim in the sea in December?
Yes. The water is still warm enough and beaches are open.
Are Dubai attractions crowded in December?
Yes. It’s a peak season. Book in advance.
What holidays are celebrated in December?
UAE National Day, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve.
Is Dubai expensive in December?
Slightly more, but deals are available with the Dubai Shopping Festival.
What should I wear in Dubai in December?
Comfortable clothes, light jacket, and modest outfits for public places.
Are taxis easy to find in December?
Yes, but booking via app is faster during busy times.
Can I get discounts on shopping?
Yes. Big discounts during the Dubai Shopping Festival.
What’s a must-do in December?
See fireworks at Burj Khalifa or enjoy a desert safari in cool weather.
