Dubai, the glamorous city in the United Arab Emirates, is known for its iconic skyscrapers, luxury shopping malls, and beautiful man-made islands. While August might not be the most popular time to visit due to the scorching temperatures, there are still plenty of ways to make the most of your time in this vibrant city. Here are some tips on how to enjoy Dubai in August:
1. Embrace the Indoor Attractions: Dubai is home to numerous indoor attractions that offer a respite from the heat. The Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world, not only offers a multitude of shopping options but also houses attractions like the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and the VR Park. You can enjoy these experiences while staying in an air-conditioned environment.
2. Visit the Water Parks: To beat the heat, head to one of Dubai’s magnificent water parks. Aquaventure, located on the Palm Jumeirah Island, boasts thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and gorgeous views of the Dubai skyline. Wild Wadi Waterpark, situated in front of the iconic Burj Al Arab, offers a variety of water attractions suitable for all ages.
3. Dine at Indoor Restaurants: Dubai is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, and even during summer, you can savor the city’s gastronomic delights. From traditional Emirati cuisine to international flavors, Dubai’s restaurants offer a wide range of options. Seek out restaurants with stunning indoor views, such as those overlooking the Dubai Fountain or the Burj Khalifa.
4. Explore the Dubai Miracle Garden: Despite the heat, the Dubai Miracle Garden remains open in August. This enchanting floral paradise showcases intricate displays of vibrant flowers arranged in various shapes and designs. Stroll through the garden’s shaded pathways and marvel at the artistic arrangements that make this attraction a must-visit.
5. Go Early or Late: To avoid the intensity of the midday sun, plan your outdoor activities either early in the morning or late in the evening. Take a walk along the Dubai Marina promenade before the heat becomes too intense or enjoy a sunset desert safari, where you can experience the thrill of dune bashing and enjoy a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars.
6. Relax at Indoor Beach Clubs: Dubai is renowned for its pristine beaches, but in August, the sun can be scorching. Many beach clubs offer indoor facilities and pools where you can cool off without missing out on the beach experience. Enjoy refreshing drinks, indulge in delicious cuisine, and relax in the comfort of air conditioning.
7. Visit Indoor Souks: Dubai is famous for its traditional souks, where you can find anything from gold and spices to textiles and electronics. The Gold Souk and Spice Souk in Deira offer an authentic shopping experience, even during the summer heat. With narrow covered alleys and air-conditioned shops, you can explore and shop to your heart’s content.
8. Take a Day Trip to the Mountains: Dubai might be known for its cityscape, but just a couple of hours away lies a completely different landscape – the rugged Hajar Mountains. Escape the city’s heat and head to Hatta, where you can enjoy activities like hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking in the Hatta Dam. The mountains offer cooler temperatures and breathtaking views.
Although Dubai’s August heat can be intense, with proper planning and utilizing indoor attractions, you can still have an enjoyable trip to this modern metropolis. From indoor shopping and dining to water parks and day trips to the mountains, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Dubai, regardless of the weather.