October marks the real start of Dubai’s outdoor season. After the searing heat of summer, the city shifts into warm, pleasant days and cooler evenings — ideal for getting back outside and exploring properly. While it’s not yet peak season, October offers a sweet spot: comfortable weather, a growing events calendar, and fewer crowds than the winter rush.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about visiting Dubai in October. From what to wear, where to stay, and key events happening in the city, to insider tips on making the most of your trip, this is your complete resource for planning a memorable Dubai getaway during this perfect transitional month.
Dubai Weather in October
Dubai Weather Snapshot (2024 Data):
- Highs: Up to 35°C
- Average Temperature: Around 29°C
- Lows: Around 23°C
- Average Monthly Rainfall: Less than 1mm
- Muggy Days (Humidity): Around 21.0 days per month
October in Dubai brings noticeably milder conditions compared to the summer months. Daytime temperatures generally reach high 20s to mid-30s, making it far more comfortable for outdoor activities. Evenings are cooler, with lows around 23°C, perfect for dining al fresco or evening strolls. Humidity decreases significantly, especially compared to August and September, offering a more pleasant atmosphere throughout the day.
Rain remains very rare, with clear, sunny skies dominating the month. Outdoor plans can be comfortably scheduled during the day, with less need to limit activities to early morning or late evening.
This transition month balances warm weather with increasing opportunities to enjoy both Dubai’s vibrant outdoor scene and its renowned indoor attractions.
Is October A Good Time to Visit Dubai?
October marks a welcome shift in Dubai’s climate, offering warmer days that are far easier to enjoy than the intense summer months. It’s a month when the city starts buzzing again, with more outdoor events, beach activities, and evening gatherings returning to full swing.
While prices are still reasonable compared to peak winter season, travellers can take advantage of better weather without the crowds that come later in the year.
Days are pleasantly warm but no longer overwhelming, making it perfect for exploring Dubai’s iconic sights, whether that’s wandering through historic districts or relaxing by the water.
Nightlife and dining spill outdoors, creating vibrant atmospheres in the city’s many open-air venues.
Dubai in October with Kids
October is an excellent time to visit Dubai with children, as the weather becomes more pleasant and easier to manage than the peak summer months. The cooler temperatures make outdoor activities more enjoyable, while still offering plenty of indoor options to keep kids entertained throughout the day.
Families can take advantage of Dubai’s many child-friendly indoor attractions, such as the expansive Dubai Mall with its indoor amusement park and aquarium, the interactive KidZania where kids can role-play different careers, and The Green Planet’s indoor rainforest. These attractions provide engaging experiences in comfortably air-conditioned environments, perfect for escaping the midday warmth.
Many hotels in Dubai cater specifically to families, featuring kids’ clubs, shaded pools, and organised activities designed to keep younger guests entertained. This allows parents to unwind while children enjoy safe and fun surroundings.
With the milder temperatures in October, early mornings and evenings are ideal for outdoor excursions. Visiting beaches, parks, or playgrounds during these cooler parts of the day can be a refreshing change and a great way for families to explore Dubai’s outdoor offerings without the discomfort of intense heat.
Things To Do In Dubai In October
Dubai Comedy Festival 2025
Dates: October 2–12, 2025
A citywide comedy extravaganza featuring top international and regional comedians. Expect big names like Tom Segura, Akaash Singh, Morgan Jay, and Zakir Khan. Shows take place at iconic venues such as Coca-Cola Arena and Dubai Opera. This festival offers plenty of laughs across multiple nights and locations, making it perfect for comedy lovers visiting Dubai in October.
Grease – The Musical
Dates: October 24 – November 2, 2025
Experience the timeless 1950s high school romance of Danny and Sandy in this lively production at Dubai Opera. With unforgettable songs and energetic choreography, this musical is perfect for theatre lovers and families looking for premium entertainment.
Loboda Live Concert
Date: October 17, 2025
Ukrainian pop sensation Loboda brings an electrifying performance to The Agenda Arena, combining her biggest hits with dazzling visuals. It’s a must-see for fans of contemporary music and vibrant live shows.
Ilaiyaraaja Live Concert
Date: October 18, 2025
Renowned Indian composer Ilaiyaraaja will enchant audiences at Dubai Opera with a unique blend of classical and modern musical styles. This concert is ideal for anyone interested in Indian music and cultural richness.
Cost of Flights in October
Flying to Dubai in October usually offers a great balance between affordability and comfort. Compared to the peak travel months of December and January, flights tend to be noticeably cheaper, with average return prices from London to Dubai often starting from around £250 to £300 with budget or one-stop options. Full-service airlines like Emirates and British Airways typically range between £400 and £500 for a return ticket.
These fares reflect the fact that October sits just before Dubai’s peak tourist season, meaning demand is growing but hasn’t yet pushed prices to their highest. Travelling midweek and booking several weeks in advance can help you secure better deals, especially for direct flights.
While prices aren’t as low as the quiet summer period, they are still favourable — often saving you £100–£150 per person compared to the height of winter. Plus, with the weather in Dubai improving and more outdoor activities opening up, many travellers find October one of the best-value months for visiting.
Where to Stay in Dubai in October
As October brings cooler mornings and evenings, your accommodation choices start to open up beyond purely indoor comfort. Whether you’re seeking five-star luxury or value for money, Dubai has excellent options for making the most of this transitional month.
Resorts & Hotels
October is a great time to enjoy Dubai’s beachside resorts, with the outdoor facilities finally becoming more usable during the day. Atlantis, The Palm is an ideal choice if you want both luxury and family-friendly attractions, including Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium, perfect for combining outdoor fun with indoor cooling-off spots.
For something more central and mid-range, Hilton Dubai Jumeirah works well, placing you right by The Walk at JBR. With beach access, shaded pools, and close proximity to Dubai Marina’s vibrant dining scene, it’s a good choice as Dubai’s outdoor life gets going again.
Budget-conscious travellers should look at Premier Inn Dubai Al Jaddaf, offering reliable air-conditioned rooms, a rooftop pool, and easy access to the metro for exploring the city without overspending.
Holiday Rentals in Dubai
October is also a great month for holiday rentals, especially if you prefer the flexibility of your own kitchen, living space, and privacy. With better weather arriving, having a private balcony or terrace becomes more appealing. At Zennova Holidays, we provide thoughtfully chosen apartments and villas across Dubai, ideal for both short and extended stays, giving you space to relax between sightseeing or enjoy alfresco evenings as temperatures ease.
What to Wear in Dubai in October
October in Dubai brings a welcome change from the intense summer heat, with daytime temperatures generally ranging from the high 20s to mid-30s°C. Warm but not overwhelming, it’s a transitional month where you’ll start to enjoy more time outdoors, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and bamboo will help you stay cool during the warmer parts of the day, and neutral or lighter shades work well in reflecting the sun.
While Dubai’s fashion scene is modern and relaxed, modest clothing is recommended in public places. Aim to cover shoulders and knees when visiting malls, souks, or cultural sites.
If you’re planning to visit mosques or religious landmarks, women should bring a scarf for covering their hair, and both men and women should wear clothing that covers arms and legs.
Despite the pleasant temperatures outside, remember that indoor venues—like malls, hotels, and public transport—are often air-conditioned to cooler levels. Bringing a light layer, such as a cardigan or scarf, can make transitions between outdoor warmth and indoor chill more comfortable.
With a mix of breathable clothing for daytime exploring and a light cover-up for air-conditioned spaces, you’ll be set to enjoy Dubai’s vibrant attractions in comfort this October.
Is Dubai Crowded During October?
By October, Dubai’s tourist numbers rebound noticeably as more visitors return in search of pleasant autumn weather. According to data, the city welcomed approximately 1.67 million international tourists in October 2024, up significantly from around 1.36 million in September and a sharp rise from the 1.31 million in August.
Hotel occupancy also increases, averaging around 77% from January to October 2024—a growth from previous summer months. While this isn’t the peak December rate, it mirrors the growing vibrancy in the city as venues, events, and outdoor attractions resume full capacity.
In short, expect busier streets, fuller restaurants, and livelier entertainment without the intense crowds of the high season. October hits a sweet spot between comfort and excitement—ideal for travellers wanting more energy than summer brings, without the crowding (or price hikes) of winter.
Average Costs of a Trip to Dubai in October
October is a popular time to visit Dubai as the weather becomes more pleasant, though it’s not yet peak season. Costs tend to be moderately priced, offering good value before the busiest months of November through February.
For a comfortable, mid-range one-week trip, a single traveller can expect to spend around £1,600–£1,900 (approx. US$2,000–US$2,400) in total. This typically includes:
- Accommodation: £420–£750 for mid-range hotels or serviced apartments. Prices vary depending on location, with areas like Downtown Dubai or Dubai Marina slightly higher.
- Food & Drink: £200–£350 depending on whether you choose mid-range restaurants, casual dining, or a mix of street food.
- Transport: £50–£90 for metro rides, taxis, or occasional private transfers. The Dubai Metro is affordable and convenient for tourists.
- Attractions: £130–£280 covering popular sights such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Aquarium, desert safaris, and indoor theme parks.
- Flights from the UK: £300–£500 return from major airports like London Heathrow or Manchester, with earlier bookings typically offering better deals.
Compared to the peak winter months (December–February), accommodation and flights can be cheaper, making October a great time for travellers seeking a balance of comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices.
What To Pack For Dubai In October
October in Dubai marks the transition from the intense summer heat to more comfortable temperatures, but the days can still be quite warm.
Packing smartly will help you stay comfortable whether you’re exploring outdoor attractions or enjoying the city’s many air-conditioned indoor venues.
Here’s a handy list of what to pack for your October trip:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton or linen)
- Light-coloured clothes to reflect the sun
- Swimwear for pools and beaches
- Comfortable sandals or closed shoes (some venues require covered footwear)
- High-SPF sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection
- Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for public and cultural sites
- Light cardigan or shawl for air-conditioned indoor spaces
- Smart-casual outfits for cooler evenings and dining out
- Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated