Dubai's location in the Arabian Desert makes the city's climate an arid subtropical one. This means that Dubai is hot, dry and under constant sunny blue skies, with very little rainfall or cloud cover.
Average temperatures in Dubai are around 86 degrees F through most of the year. Dubai summers, which last from June to September, can see highs of 114 degrees F, with lows in the mid 80s. Even the ocean reaches a hot 104 degrees F. The coolest time of year in Dubai is from December to March, when highs are in the 80s and lows in the mid 50s.
Summers in Dubai prove unbearable to most visitors, as well as many Dubai residents, who often plan their own vacations during this time. Dubai weather is most pleasant during the winter, and peak tourist season is from December to March.
Despite Dubai's extreme heat, Dubai's Muslim residents must adhere to Muslim dress codes, and visitors are expected to dress in a manner that is not offensive to the area's customs as well. This means that women in particular must avoid clothing that is very short, low cut or in any way revealing. Loose layers and breathable fabrics are recommended, as are more modest fashions. Visitors may wear typical Western swimwear in Dubai, though bathing suits should not be worn to public areas other than the pool or the beach.
The excessive heat and strong desert sun in Dubai pose several threats. High UV rays can prove harmful to the eyes, and, without sunscreen, a Dubai sunburn can be very severe. Dehydration is a concern due to the heat, as well.
