March is a great time to visit Dubai. The weather is warm but not extreme, ideal for beaches, desert activities, and dining outdoors before the summer heat sets in. It’s also an active month for events, with the Dubai racing season nearing its finale at Meydan and art exhibitions taking place across Alserkal Avenue and other creative districts.
When Ramadan falls in March, as it did in 2025, the city offers a different experience, with evening iftars, night markets, and cultural celebrations.
This guide will help you decide if visiting Dubai in March 2026 is the right time for your trip. We’ll cover the pros and cons, costs, things to do, and more.
Dubai Weather In March
Dubai Weather Snapshot (2025 Dubai Weather Data)
| Highs | Average Temperature | Lows | Average Monthly Rainfall | Muggy Days (Humidity) |
| 29°C | 23°C | 18°C | 13.1mm | Around 3 days per month |
March brings warm, pleasant days in Dubai, with daytime highs reaching around 29°C and average temperatures of about 23°C. Evenings remain comfortable, cooling to around 18°C, which makes dining outdoors or strolling along the beach enjoyable. Rain is still uncommon, though brief showers can occasionally pass through.
Expect roughly 12 hours of daylight per day, with light breezes averaging around 14.8 mph and plenty of sunshine throughout the month.
March offers excellent conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities before the heat and humidity of summer begin to build.
Is March a Good Time to Visit Dubai?
For general travel and sightseeing, March is a rewarding time to visit Dubai. The city feels lively but not overcrowded, offering a good balance between energy and comfort for exploring attractions, dining outdoors, and spending time by the water.
The month is also rich in events. The Dubai racing season continues at Meydan, building towards the Dubai World Cup at the end of March, one of the city’s major sporting and social highlights. The art and design scene is in full swing too, with Art Dubai and exhibitions across Alserkal Avenue adding a creative edge to the city’s atmosphere.
When Ramadan falls in March, the city adopts a more reflective rhythm during the day and a festive spirit at night, with beautifully prepared iftars and community gatherings giving visitors a chance to experience local culture in a meaningful way.
Ramadan in Dubai
In 2026, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday 17 February and conclude on the evening of Wednesday 18 March, with exact dates depending on the moon sighting.
If Ramadan does coincide with March, the city takes on a distinctive atmosphere. Days are calm and reflective, while evenings come alive with dining, markets, and cultural events.
Couples can enjoy memorable iftar dinners in hotels or desert settings, with many venues offering private or semi-private arrangements for a more intimate experience.
Ramadan night markets add a festive backdrop, featuring traditional crafts, street food, and performances. Notable options include Hai Ramadan at Expo City Dubai, Ramadan District at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, and Festival Bay at Dubai Festival City Mall, each combining dining, shopping, and entertainment in a lively setting.
Evening strolls along waterfronts or around landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa or Dubai Marina are particularly atmospheric. The city is softly lit and buzzing with gentle nightlife, adding to the sense of occasion.
Outdoor experiences also remain highlights during Ramadan. Desert excursions, visits to Love Lake, or hot air balloon rides provide memorable shared adventures, blending romance with the cultural rhythm of the month.
Visiting Dubai in March with Kids
March is a good month to visit Dubai with children, offering warm daytime temperatures around 29°C and cooler evenings of about 18°C. These conditions make outdoor activities comfortable without the higher heat that arrives late in spring and summer.
Parks, beaches, and open-air attractions are easy to enjoy at this time of year. They tend to be busy but not overcrowded, giving children plenty of space to explore. The moderate temperatures also make longer periods outside more manageable for younger kids.
Families often benefit from reasonable hotel rates and shorter queues at major attractions compared with the winter peak. Overall, March provides suitable weather, accessible activities, and a straightforward experience for family travel.For more ideas, see our guide ‘10 Things To Do With Kids In Dubai’.
Is Dubai Crowded in March?
March in Dubai remains lively but not overcrowded. The pleasant weather and active events calendar attract many visitors, though the atmosphere is generally more relaxed than during the winter peak.
While December to February see the highest tourist numbers, March still draws strong visitor traffic. In the first quarter of 2025, Dubai welcomed 5.31 million international tourists, a 3% increase on the same period in 2024.
Popular attractions such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Global Village can be busy, particularly on weekends. Visiting early in the morning or later in the evening helps avoid queues and crowds.
If Ramadan coincides with March, crowd patterns can shift slightly. Daytime attractions and beaches may feel quieter, while evenings become livelier once fasting ends, with restaurants and night markets drawing both locals and visitors.
Although crowds are lighter than in the peak winter months, planning ahead still helps. If you’d like practical tips on how to avoid Dubai crowds, check out our guide ‘How to Avoid Crowds in Dubai’.
Things to Do in Dubai in March
March is an active month in Dubai, with events, exhibitions, and outdoor experiences running throughout the city. The mix of cultural, sporting, and family-friendly activities makes it a well-rounded time to visit.
Below, you’ll find some of the top things to do in March, including seasonal highlights and major annual events.
Note: Event schedules can vary each year, so it’s best to check reliable sources such as Dubai Calendar or Platinumlist for the latest updates.
Activities To Do in March
| Activity | Description | Website |
| Dubai Safari Park | A great time to visit before temperatures climb. See wildlife from around the world in open enclosures and themed zones across this 119-hectare park. | For more info, please visit Dubai Safari Park |
| Ain Dubai & Bluewaters Island | Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the world’s tallest observation wheel and explore nearby shops and restaurants on Bluewaters Island. | For more info, please visit Bluewaters Dubai |
| Dubai Marina Walk & Canal Cruise | Combine a stroll along the Marina promenade with a short boat trip to see the skyline from the water in comfortable evening temperatures. | For more info, please visit Visit Dubai |
| Hatta Day Trip | March’s mild weather makes it ideal for a visit to Hatta’s mountains. Try kayaking on the dam, mountain biking, or visiting the heritage village. | For more info, please visit Visit Hatta |
| The Green Planet | Escape the afternoon heat in this indoor rainforest, home to over 3,000 species of plants and animals. Ideal for families with children. | For more info, please visit The Green Planet Dubai |
Festivals and Events in March 2026
| Event | Dates | Location | Description |
| Ramadan District Season 3 | TBD | Jumeirah Emirates Towers | Experience the spirit of Ramadan through shopping, dining, and entertainment in a lively cultural setting. Check for more details on What’s On Dubai. |
| Ramadan Street Food Festival | TBD | Various locations across Dubai | Explore traditional and modern dishes at pop-up food stalls and trucks across the city. Check for updates on What’s On Dubai. |
| Dubai International Horse Fair | 17 – 19 March 2026 | Dubai World Trade Centre | The region’s premier equestrian event featuring exhibitors, demonstrations, and international visitors. Find more information on Exhibition Makers. |
| Dubai International Boat Show | 8 – 12 April 2026 | Dubai Harbour | Explore luxury yachts, marine technology, and water sports gear at this world-class maritime event. See details on Ocean Independence. |
| Ramadan (start) | Evening of 17 or 18 February 2026 (approx.) | UAE-wide | Ramadan is expected to begin in mid-February, marking a period of fasting, reflection, and evening celebrations. Learn more at Time Out Dubai. |
| Eid Al-Fitr | Expected 20 March 2026 (approx.) | UAE-wide | Celebrate the end of Ramadan with prayers, feasts, and family gatherings across Dubai. Read more on The Finance World. |
| St Patrick’s Day Celebrations | 17 March 2026 | Various Irish pubs and venues | Enjoy themed parties, live music, and Irish cuisine at pubs across Dubai. See highlights on Dubai Night. |
| Mother’s Day (UAE) | 21 March 2026 | UAE-wide | Celebrate with special dining offers and family events held across Dubai. Learn more from MOHAP UAE. |
Cost of Flights to Dubai in February
We found when researching using Skyscanner that return flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Dubai (DXB) between 2 March and 9 March start from around £473 with Emirates for direct flights. Cheaper options from about £266 are available with one or more stops, though these involve longer travel times and connections.
Flight prices vary depending on when you book, the number of stops, baggage allowance, and seat class. Using tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights to compare dates and fares can help you find the best deals.
Where to Stay in Dubai in February
Choosing where to stay in Dubai depends on what you plan to do during your trip.
If your focus is sightseeing, beach days, and visiting major attractions, areas like Downtown Dubai or Business Bay are convenient options. Staying here means shorter travel times and easy access to landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Dubai Fountain.
For a more relaxed setting, consider coastal areas like Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) or Dubai Marina, which are ideal for evening walks, dining, and waterfront views.
If your interests are away from the city centre, you can stay further out. Resorts near the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve offer easy access to desert safaris and stargazing experiences. options range from international hotels to serviced apartments. Apartments are a practical choice for families or longer stays, offering separate bedrooms, living areas, and kitchens. Zennova Holidays provides a variety of budget and luxury apartments across the city.
Average Costs of a Trip to Dubai in February
March remains part of Dubai’s high season, though prices are often slightly lower than in the winter peak.
We found when researching using Skyscanner that return flights from London Heathrow to Dubai between 2 and 9 March start from around £473 (AED 2,200) with Emirates for direct flights. Cheaper options from about £266 (AED 1,230) are available with one or more stops, though these involve longer travel times.
Accommodation prices vary depending on location and comfort level. Budget hotels or serviced apartments start from around £50 (AED 230) per night, while mid-range options typically range between £100 and £200 (AED 460 to 920) per night. For a one week stay, this works out to roughly £350 to £1,200 (AED 1,600 to 5,500).
Daily spending on meals, local transport, and attractions usually averages £60 to £90 (AED 275 to 415) per day when costs are spread across the week. This allows for casual dining, regular Metro or taxi use, and a few paid activities divided throughout your stay rather than every day.
Taking everything into account, including flights, accommodation, meals, and local transport, a one week trip in March for a single traveller typically costs between £1,600 and £2,300 (AED 7,400 to 10,600), depending on flight class, accommodation choice, and activities.
Booking early, travelling midweek, and using public transport are still the best ways to manage costs while enjoying the city comfortably.
What to Wear in Dubai in March
March is warm and pleasant, making it easy to dress comfortably throughout the day. Lightweight clothing such as cotton shirts, linen trousers, and breathable dresses works well when exploring or spending time outdoors.
Evenings can feel slightly cooler, especially near the coast or in desert areas, so it’s worth packing a light jacket or cardigan for later in the day.
Modesty is still expected in public spaces. When visiting shopping malls, souks, or cultural attractions, it’s best to cover shoulders and knees. Loose-fitting clothing helps you stay comfortable and respectful of local customs, and a scarf or shawl is useful for women when visiting mosques or traditional areas.
Swimwear is fine at hotel pools, beach clubs, and private beaches but 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 prefer smart-casual attire, so a simple dress or a shirt with tailored trousers works well.
What to Pack for Dubai in March
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton or linen) for warm days
- Light jacket or cardigan for air-conditioned spaces or cooler evenings
- Swimwear for pools, beaches, and water activities
- Comfortable sandals or trainers for walking and sightseeing
- Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for cultural or public areas
- Sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection
- Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day
- Smart casual outfits for dinners, lounges, or evening events
What is Dubai like in February and April?
If you’re planning a trip around this time of year, it’s useful to compare March with the months on either side. You can dive deeper with the guides below:
- Read our guide on Visiting Dubai in February.
- Read our guide on Visiting Dubai in April.
These will help you decide which month suits your plans best.