Dubai, a sparkling gem in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is a world-renowned holiday destination known for its luxurious lifestyle, stunning architecture, and diverse culture.
December is one of the best months of the year to visit Dubai. The weather is pleasant, and there are numerous events and attractions to enjoy.
In this article, we will discuss the weather in Dubai in December, including temperature, rainfall, humidity, sunrise and sunset times, sea temperature, events and things to do, and what to wear during your visit.
Temperature
The average temperature in Dubai in December is around 22 °C (72°F). The average daily high is 26 °C (79 °F), and the average low is about 16 °C (61 °F).
The weather in December is much cooler than the scorching summer months, making it an ideal time to visit Dubai and explore its numerous attractions. With pleasant temperatures throughout December, visitors can comfortably enjoy both indoor and outdoor activities.
Despite the cooler temperatures in December, applying sun cream regularly while outdoors is essential. The sun can be intense, and protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is crucial for maintaining good skin health.
| Month | Average Temperature (°C) | Average Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 19 | 66 |
| February | 21 | 70 |
| March | 23 | 73 |
| April | 28 | 82 |
| May | 32 | 90 |
| June | 33 | 91 |
| July | 36 | 97 |
| August | 36 | 97 |
| September | 33 | 91 |
| October | 30 | 86 |
| November | 26 | 79 |
| December | 22 | 72 |
| Month | High (°C) | Low (°C) | High (°F) | Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 24 | 14 | 75 | 57 |
| February | 26 | 15 | 79 | 59 |
| March | 29 | 17 | 84 | 63 |
| April | 34 | 21 | 93 | 70 |
| May | 39 | 25 | 102 | 77 |
| June | 41 | 27 | 106 | 81 |
| July | 42 | 29 | 108 | 84 |
| August | 42 | 29 | 108 | 84 |
| September | 40 | 27 | 104 | 81 |
| October | 36 | 24 | 97 | 75 |
| November | 31 | 20 | 88 | 68 |
| December | 26 | 16 | 79 | 61 |
Rain
Precipitation in Dubai is minimal, with an average rainfall of only 10 mm in December. While the occasional shower may occur in December, the overall weather remains sunny and dry.
| Month | Rainfall (mm) | Rainy days per month |
|---|---|---|
| January | 17 | 2 |
| February | 15 | 2 |
| March | 16 | 2 |
| April | 4 | 1 |
| May | 0 | 0 |
| June | 0 | 0 |
| July | 0 | 0 |
| August | 0 | 0 |
| September | 0 | 0 |
| October | 0 | 0 |
| November | 3 | 1 |
| December | 10 | 1 |
The low amount of rain makes Dubai an excellent destination for those seeking winter sun and clear skies.
Humidity
The humidity in Dubai during December is high compared to other months. The daily average is 61%.
Although humidity is higher, the lower air temperatures make the weather throughout December much more comfortable for visitors.
| Month | Humidity(%) |
|---|---|
| January | 61% |
| February | 57% |
| March | 52% |
| April | 45% |
| May | 42% |
| June | 47% |
| July | 47% |
| August | 46% |
| September | 52% |
| October | 54% |
| November | 57% |
| December | 61% |
Sunrise and Sunset Times
In December, the sun rises around 7:00 am and sets around 5:30 pm, providing over 10 hours of daylight every day.
The shorter days result in cooler evenings. These are the ideal time to explore Dubai’s bustling nightlife or dine al fresco at one of the city’s many world-class restaurants.
Exact sunrise and sunset times throughout December can be found here.
Sea Temperature
The average sea temperature in December in Dubai is 25 °C (77 °F). This temperature is a few degrees cooler than a heated swimming pool.
This warm water temperature makes it an ideal time for water sports, such as swimming, snorkelling, and paddleboarding.
You can find the current water temperature in Dubai here.
| Month | Water Temperature (°C) | Water Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 22 | 72 |
| February | 22 | 72 |
| March | 23 | 73 |
| April | 26 | 79 |
| May | 29 | 84 |
| June | 32 | 90 |
| July | 33 | 91 |
| August | 33 | 91 |
| September | 33 | 91 |
| October | 31 | 88 |
| November | 28 | 82 |
| December | 25 | 77 |
Events and Things to Do
December is a bustling month in Dubai, with numerous festivals and events for visitors.
The Dubai Shopping Festival, a month-long retail extravaganza, begins in December, offering shoppers incredible discounts and deals on various products.
UAE National Day is celebrated on December 2 and is a major public holiday. This momentous occasion marks the unification of the seven emirates in 1971 and the founding of the United Arab Emirates. The entire city comes alive with various activities, including parades, fireworks, and cultural performances. Many landmarks are illuminated in the colours of the UAE flag, creating a festive atmosphere throughout Dubai. It is an excellent time for visitors to learn more about Emirati culture and traditions and participate in the celebrations.
Other events during December include the Global Village, which features food, entertainment, and shopping from around the world.
Dubai’s extravagant New Year’s Eve celebrations are centred around the iconic Burj Khalifa and include one of the world’s most spectacular fireworks displays.
Christmas is celebrated in Dubai, but Christmas Day and Boxing Day are not public holidays. The UAE is a Muslim country with many Christian expatriates and tourists.
Outdoor attractions such as The Beach, Kite Beach, Dubai Miracle Garden, Al Mamzar Beach Park, Al Qudra Lakes, and Wild Wadi Water Park are delightful in December’s pleasant weather. Visitors can also take a leisurely ride on an abra along Dubai Creek or explore the historic Al Fahidi neighbourhood, the Gold Souk, and the Spice Souk.
Going on a desert safari is one of the best things to do in Dubai in December. These trips to the Arabian Desert typically include dune bashing, camel riding, and traditional Emirati entertainment.
Water sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the warm sea temperatures to enjoy activities like jet skiing, kite surfing, and scuba diving.
What to Wear
When visiting Dubai in December, it’s essential to dress appropriately, respecting the local culture and customs. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for daytime activities, while a light jacket or shawl may be necessary for cooler evenings.
Modest dress is essential when visiting religious sites such as the Jumeirah Mosque.
Shopping malls also operate dress codes.
Swimwear is acceptable when visiting the beach or water parks, but it’s crucial to cover up when leaving these areas.
Other Months
Average high and low temperatures, sunrise and sunset times, and events in other months can be found by following these links: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November.
Weather Forecast
You can find the latest weather forecast for Dubai here. It includes the current temperature, average wind speed and direction, and relative humidity.
We also offer forecasts and weather data for other regions in the UAE: Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Al Ain, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Sharjah.
