Worst time to visit Abu Dhabi
Some months in Abu Dhabi are clearly tougher for travel — extreme heat, cold, drenching rain, or peak storm season. Here's what to skip.
Months to avoid
| Month | Why |
|---|---|
| April | very hot (33°C / 91°F) |
| May | dangerously hot (avg 37°C / 98°F) |
| June | dangerously hot (avg 39°C / 101°F) |
| July | dangerously hot (avg 40°C / 105°F) |
| August | dangerously hot (avg 41°C / 105°F) |
| September | dangerously hot (avg 39°C / 101°F) |
| October | dangerously hot (avg 35°C / 94°F) |
What to expect in the worst months
May. Daytime highs averaging 37°C / 98°F mean outdoor sightseeing between roughly 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. becomes uncomfortable — locals retreat indoors and many smaller shops close in the afternoon.
June. Daytime highs averaging 39°C / 101°F mean outdoor sightseeing between roughly 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. becomes uncomfortable — locals retreat indoors and many smaller shops close in the afternoon.
July. Daytime highs averaging 40°C / 105°F mean outdoor sightseeing between roughly 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. becomes uncomfortable — locals retreat indoors and many smaller shops close in the afternoon.
Better times to go
Better months: January (23°C, 4 rain days) · February (25°C, 4 rain days) · December (26°C, 3 rain days)
Better in the same region in May
If you're set on Middle East in May, these cities have more comfortable conditions in the same window:
If you still have to go — what to bring
- Heat: UPF-rated long-sleeve sun shirt, refillable insulated bottle, electrolyte tablets, lightweight wide-brim hat. Plan indoor activities for 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Related Abu Dhabi guides
The positive counterpart: which months are great and why.