You’ve probably seen the photos. Influencers posing in front of the Burj Khalifa in silk dresses or guys lounging poolside at a beach club in nothing but swim trunks. It looks like eternal summer. But honestly, if you pack only your summer wardrobe for a trip to Dubai in December, you’re going to be that person shivering in the back of a taxi or buying an overpriced souvenir hoodie at the Dubai Mall.
I’ve lived through enough "winter" seasons here to know the reality. December is easily the best month to visit the city, but it’s also the most misunderstood. It isn't just "not hot." It’s a specific kind of desert cool that catches people off guard.
💡 You might also like: Howard Johnson in Staunton VA: What Most People Get Wrong
Weather Dubai in December: The Actual Numbers
Let’s get the technical stuff out of the way so you can plan your days properly. On an average day in December, you’re looking at a high of roughly 26°C (79°F). That sounds like a perfect summer day in London or New York, right?
It is.
But the desert is a fickle beast. As soon as that sun dips behind the horizon—which happens around 5:30 PM—the temperature plumments. You can expect night-time lows of 15°C to 17°C (59°F to 63°F).
Rainfall and Humidity
Is it going to rain? Probably not. Statistics from the UAE's National Center of Meteorology show that Dubai only sees about 14mm to 15mm of rain during the entire month. Usually, that’s just one or two days of light drizzle.
Humidity is the silent hero here. Unlike the "soup" you breathe in during August, December humidity levels hover around 60%. It feels crisp. It’s the kind of air that actually makes you want to walk from the Metro station to your hotel instead of calling an Uber.
What Nobody Tells You About the Water
You’re going to want to swim. The Arabian Gulf looks incredibly inviting when the sun is out. In December, the sea temperature is usually around 24°C to 25°C (75°F to 77°F).
👉 See also: New York weather for january: What most people get wrong
If you’re coming from a cold climate, this feels like a heated pool. However, if you’ve been living in the tropics, it might feel a bit "refreshing" (read: brisk). Most high-end resorts like Atlantis The Palm or the Jumeirah hotels heat their outdoor pools to a steady 30°C during the winter, so you’ll be fine regardless.
The real challenge? Getting out of the water. That breeze coming off the Gulf in the late afternoon is sharp.
The Layering Strategy
Packing for the weather in Dubai in December is all about the layers. Think of it like a three-act play.
- Morning (7 AM - 10 AM): It’s chilly. You’ll want a light sweater or a denim jacket for breakfast on the terrace.
- Midday (11 AM - 4 PM): This is peak T-shirt and shorts weather. The sun is strong, and the UV index hits a moderate 5. You will get sunburned if you aren't careful.
- Evening (6 PM onwards): This is where people fail. If you’re heading to the desert for a safari or dining at a rooftop bar in the Marina, you need a proper jacket. The desert floor holds zero heat. It gets cold.
Pro Tip: Malls and cinemas in Dubai are notorious for keeping the AC at "Arctic" levels. Even if it’s 26°C outside, it feels like 16°C inside the Dubai Mall. Always carry a pashmina or a light zip-up.
Why the Atmosphere Changes Everything
December isn't just about the thermometer. It’s the vibe. This is peak season for a reason.
👉 See also: Hard Rock Cafe Foxwoods: Is It Still the Best Spot for Dinner and a Show?
The city is obsessed with outdoor living this time of year. You’ve got the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) kicking off, usually with drone shows and outdoor markets. Global Village is in full swing. Because the weather is so manageable, these outdoor venues get incredibly crowded.
- UAE National Day: December 2nd. Expect fireworks and parades.
- Christmas: While a Muslim country, Dubai goes hard on Christmas decor. Every mall has a tree that’s three stories tall.
- New Year's Eve: The weather is perfect for watching the Burj Khalifa fireworks, but you’ll be standing outside for hours. Wear comfortable shoes and, again, that jacket.
Can You Actually Do the Desert?
In July, the desert is a furnace. In December, it’s a playground.
This is the only time of year when dune bashing and camel riding don't feel like a survival exercise. If you’re booking a desert camp dinner, check if they provide blankets. Most do, but having your own fleece is a game-changer when you’re sitting on a floor cushion in the middle of the dunes at 10 PM.
Actionable Steps for Your Trip
- Book Everything Now: December is the busiest month. If you haven't booked your Burj Khalifa tickets or dinner at the Marina by November, you’re going to be disappointed.
- Pack a "Real" Jacket: Not just a hoodie. A leather jacket or a light puffer is actually appropriate for the evenings.
- Check Pool Heating: If you’re staying at a budget hotel or an Airbnb, ask if the pool is temperature-controlled. If it isn't, it’s going to be too cold to enjoy.
- Plan Outdoor Walks: Use this month to see Old Dubai (Al Fahidi) or walk the 7km Marina promenade. You won't be able to do this comfortably at any other time of year.
The weather in Dubai in December is basically a Mediterranean spring. It’s reliable, sunny, and perfect for photos, provided you don't underestimate the desert's ability to cool down the second the sun goes away.