Dubai is a bucket list destination for many, and with good reason.
It’s a city of contrasts and innovation, where futuristic skyscrapers like the Burj Khalifa stand alongside vast desert landscapes, creating a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Known for its record-breaking architecture, luxurious shopping, and diverse cultural experiences, Dubai is a global melting pot with over 200 nationalities calling it home.
Visitors can enjoy world-class attractions such as the man-made Palm Jumeirah, thrilling desert safaris, and bustling traditional souks.
A trip there is epic, but a trip there can be expensive, and long. That’s why you want to time it right.
So, when is the best time to visit Dubai?
Keep reading to find out when to visit the UAE, and how to score cheap flights to Dubai.
When is the best time to visit Dubai?
The best time to visit Dubai is during the cooler months from November to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant, making it perfect for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions, like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, and desert safaris.
- Weather: Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), providing a comfortable climate for sightseeing.
- Events: Major events like the Dubai Shopping Festival, Dubai International Film Festival, and Dubai Food Festival occur during these months, adding extra excitement to your trip.
- Activities: Enjoy beach outings, al fresco dining, and outdoor markets without the scorching summer heat.
We’ve found flight deals during high season that will get you there for cheap, so you can save your money for the dazzling attractions that await you.
Cheap flights to Dubai
Finding cheap flights to Dubai can be hard to come by considering its a long journey from the US, but if you look for tickets one to three months out, and be on the lookout for mistake fares, you might find deals like we did.
Sample flight #1: Chicago to Dubai
Fly from Chicago (ORD) to Dubai in late October/early November for a shoulder season deal. With standard fare for this route typically priced between $790–$1,500, you have the opportunity to score flights for half off.
Sample flight #2: New York to Dubai
Another cheap flight to Dubai we found takes you from New York (JFK) to Dubai in late January/early February.
This is considered high season, so a flight deal like this won’t last long.
You’ll save more than $500 on airfare.
Tips for visiting Dubai on a budget
Visiting Dubai—from purchasing plane tickets to securing accommodations and activities—can cost a pretty penny. If you’re looking for cheap flights to Dubai and budget travel ideas to Dubai, we have you covered.
If you’re wondering “when is the best time to visit Dubai” on a budget, the summer months (April to October) could be an option, but they come with significant heat. Temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F), making outdoor activities challenging. However, if you can handle the heat, there are some perks.
- Lower prices: Hotels, flights, and attractions often offer discounts during this off-peak season, making it an excellent time for budget travelers.
- Indoor attractions: Dubai is well-prepared for the heat with world-class indoor attractions like the Dubai Mall, Ski Dubai, and indoor theme parks where you can stay cool.
For those who want to avoid both peak crowds and extreme heat, the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) are great alternatives.
- Milder weather: Temperatures are warm but manageable, especially in the early mornings and late afternoons.
- Fewer crowds: Enjoy popular attractions like the Dubai Fountain and Palm Jumeirah with fewer tourists.
- Good deals: While prices aren’t as low as in summer, you can still find good deals on accommodations and flights.
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