Many people choose January as the best time to visit Dubai. The weather is mild and dry, perfect for beach days, desert trips, and eating outdoors. On the other hand, it is busier and prices are higher, as it is considered peak season.
This guide will help you decide if January is the right time for your trip. We’ll cover the pros and cons, costs, things to do, and more.
Dubai Weather In January
| Dubai Weather Snapshot (2024 Dubai Weather Data) | ||||
| Highs | Average Temperature | Lows | Average Monthly Rainfall | Muggy Days (Humidity) |
| 24°C | 19°C | 14°C | 14.7mm | Around 0.6 days per month |
January brings mostly clear and pleasant days in Dubai, paired with cool yet comfortable nights, which are perfect for outdoor adventures, beach trips, and evening strolls. Rain is uncommon.
Expect around 10.8 hours of daylight per day, with bright skies and gentle breezes averaging 13.9 mph, making exploring Dubai ideal.
Overall, January ranks among Dubai’s most visitor-friendly months thanks to dependable sunny skies, minimal rainfall and comfortable conditions.
Is January a Good Time to Visit Dubai?
For general travelling with the aim of exploring Dubai in comfortable heat, January is a great choice. It is one of the best months to enjoy the city’s mild climate and vibrant cultural scene.
Unlike December, January is a little quieter after the holiday rush, offering visitors a more relaxed atmosphere at popular attractions and beaches. Thanks to the pleasant temperatures and low humidity, outdoor activities such as desert safaris, dhow cruises, and alfresco dining are ideal.
January also marks the heart of Dubai’s famous Shopping Festival, which continues to draw bargain hunters and luxury shoppers alike with citywide sales, entertainment, and special events.
That said, it is still a busy month. If you are looking for cheaper options, January may not be for you, as travel costs usually fall later in the year during the summer months.
Is Dubai Crowded in January?
Yes, January is a popular time to visit Dubai. The cool, sunny weather and ongoing winter holidays continue to attract large numbers of tourists, especially in the first half of the month when New Year celebrations are still in full swing.
Key attractions like the Burj Khalifa, Global Village, and Dubai Mall tend to be especially busy, with weekends drawing the biggest crowds. Restaurants, desert tours, and beach clubs also see high demand, so booking in advance is advisable. Due to the Dubai Shopping Festival going on, malls will be especially busy.
Locals on forums recommend visiting popular attractions around 8am – 10am. After 7pm can offer amazing views, but tends to be busier.
While the city is built to handle large visitor numbers, planning ahead helps you avoid queues and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
Visiting Dubai in January with Kids
We will always advise families with young kis travelling to Dubai in winter months, so January is a perfect time for kids of all ages. If you were to visit in Summer, the humid climate will cause them serious discomfort.
The cooler temperatures and lower humidity compared to the hotter months, outdoor activities and sightseeing become more enjoyable and less tiring for young kids. This opens the door to dozens of activities for children that aren’t inside venues. There are outdoor adventure parks such as Hatta Wadi Hub, where kids and adults can get involved in water activities, football zorbing and more.
This balance of pleasant weather, and fewer crowds, makes January a smart choice for families looking to explore Dubai comfortably and affordably.For more information on things to do with kids in Dubai check out our article ‘10 Things To Do With Kids In Dubai’.
Things To Do in Dubai in January
January features a mix of ongoing events and seasonal celebrations that give the city a unique flair. Whether it’s catching a spectacular light show, browsing lively markets, or attending family-friendly festivals, the month offers experiences that make the most of Dubai’s sunny winter days and cool evenings.
Below, we highlight the top five activities to enjoy during the winter season, as well as the top five special festivals and events.
Note: Keep in mind that event schedules can change slightly each year, so it’s best to check reliable sources like Dubai Calendar or Platinumlist for the latest updates.
Activities To Do In January
| Activity | Description | Website URL |
| Desert Safari Adventure | Dubai’s desert is at its most inviting in January, with cooler temperatures making outdoor adventures much more comfortable. | Visit www.desertsafari.com for more details on safaris available. |
| Visit Kite Beach | Dubai’s beaches are perfect for relaxing, strolling along the shore, or trying watersports. We recommend Kite Beach, which offers watersports, jogging paths, food trucks, and casual dining. | Visit https://kitebeach.ae/ for more details |
| Dubai Miracle Garden | Stroll among millions of blooming flowers and creative displays at the Dubai Miracle Garden, a colorful and vibrant attraction perfect for photos and leisurely exploration. | Visit https://www.dubaimiraclegarden.com/ for more details |
| Explore Al Fahidi Historical District | Wander the narrow lanes of Al Fahidi to discover Dubai’s history, traditional architecture, and cultural spots. | Visit https://dubaiculture.gov.ae for more details. |
| Dhow Cruise Dinner on Dubai Creek or Marina | Enjoy a relaxing evening on the water with a traditional dhow cruise. Experience Dubai’s skyline, dine on board, and soak in the atmosphere with music and entertainment. | Visit https://www.dhowcruiseindubai.com/ for more details. |
Festivals and Events in Dubai in January
| Event Name | Event Dates | Event Description |
| Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) | 5 December 2025 to 11 January 2026 | Dubai’s premier shopping event features citywide sales, live entertainment, fireworks, and family-friendly activities. Malls like The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates host events, while outdoor venues such as JBR and Dubai Festival City offer additional attractions. For more information on DSF, see the Visit Dubai website. |
| Global Village | 15th October 2025 – 10th May 2026 | Global Village is celebrating its 30th season with cultural pavilions, international cuisine, live shows, and family entertainment. Bringing together more than 90 cultures in one place, it is an event no visitor to Dubai should miss. For more information and to plan your visit to Global Village in January, you can download their app through the official website. |
| Dubai Opera – Wicked | 8th January 2026 – 15th February 2026 | The award-winning musical Wicked comes to Dubai Opera January to February. This Broadway favourite tells the untold story of the witches of Oz, with stunning performances, unforgettable songs, and spectacular staging. A must-see for theatre lovers visiting Dubai in January.To learn more about Dubai Opera and the musical Wicked, or to book tickets, visit the Dubai Opera website. |
| Gulfood | January 26th – 30th | Gulfood is the world’s largest annual food and beverage trade event, taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Expo City. The 31st edition features over 6,500 exhibitors from 198 countries, showcasing innovations across sectors like dairy, beverages, meat and poultry, and emerging areas such as agritech and AI.This is a trade-only event, not open to the general public. Admission is for professionals in the food and beverage industry who register in advance. To learn more about Gulfood 2026 or to register as a trade visitor, visit the Gulfood website. |
| The Art Fest International | 23rd – 25th January 2026 | The Arts Fest International returns for its second edition in Dubai. The festival showcases a diverse range of art forms, including visual arts, performances, and interactive experiences, making it a must-visit for art lovers. Bookings are now open via the Art Festival International website. |
Cost of Flights in January
Based on our research, a return flight from London Heathrow to Dubai (DXB), departing 5th January and returning 11th January, costs around £450 with British Airways. This is a direct flight and takes roughly 9 hours.
Cheaper options are available from £292, but these involve multiple stops and journeys of up to 19 hours.
Flight prices can vary depending on luggage allowance and other requirements. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend using tools such as Google Flights or Skyscanner. If you’re flexible with dates or book a little earlier, you can often save more on fares.
Where to Stay in Dubai in January
Choosing where to stay in Dubai really depends on what you plan to do during your trip.
If your focus is exploring the city centre, visiting beaches, and seeing popular attractions, Downtown Dubai or Business Bay are excellent options. Staying here means you’ll spend less time and money on taxis or driving around.
On the other hand, if you’re not planning to explore the city itself and your interests lie further afield, consider booking accommodation outside the centre. For example, Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve is ideal if you want easy access to desert activities.Dubai offers a wide range of accommodation, from hotels of varying star ratings and prices to holiday apartments across the city.
Apartments give you the comfort and privacy of your own space, with separate bedrooms, lounges, and kitchens. Zennova Holidays offers a selection of both budget and luxury apartments throughout the city.
What to Wear in Dubai in January
January is one of the most pleasant months weather-wise in Dubai, making it easy to dress comfortably throughout the day.
Lightweight clothes like cotton shirts, linen trousers, and breathable dresses work well during the day, especially when you’re outdoors or sightseeing.
Evenings can feel cooler, particularly by the water or in desert areas, so it’s advisable to pack a light jacket or jumper for later in the day.
Modesty is expected in most public spaces. When visiting shopping malls, government buildings, or cultural attractions, it’s best to cover shoulders and knees.
Loose-fitting clothing helps you stay comfortable and respectful of local customs. A scarf or shawl is a handy addition for women, particularly when visiting mosques or traditional areas.
Swimwear is fine at hotel pools, beach clubs, and private beaches, but it should be covered when walking through hotel lobbies or public paths.
For footwear, comfortable sandals or trainers are ideal for daytime outings. In the evening, many restaurants and lounges prefer smart-casual attire, so a simple dress or a shirt and tailored trousers is a good option.
Average Costs of a Trip to Dubai in January
Dubai in January is slightly more affordable than December but still sits in the higher range due to great weather and major events like the Dubai Shopping Festival.
Flights from the UK typically cost around £400–£450 return, especially when booked early.
Accommodation varies widely. Mid-range hotels and serviced apartments average £100–£200 per night, while budget options are available from around £50.
Transport is easy to manage on a budget. The Metro is reliable and costs as little as AED 3 (£0.65) per ride, while taxis are more expensive.
Meals can be kept affordable too, with local restaurants in Deira or Karama offering dishes for AED 25–60 (£5–£12). Food courts and shawarma stands are great for cheap eats.
Overall, a reasonable daily budget for January travellers ranges from £115–£140 per person, depending on your mix of comfort and savings. A week in Dubai for two people can cost anywhere between £1,300 and £1,950, including flights, hotels, meals, transport, and a few paid attractions.
Booking ahead, travelling midweek, and using public transport can help keep costs down without compromising your experience.
What to Pack for Dubai in January
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton or linen)
- Light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings and air-conditioned spaces
- Swimwear for pools and beach visits
- Comfortable sandals or sneakers for walking
- Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for cultural sites
- Sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection
- Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Smart casual outfits for evenings at restaurants or events