While much of the world is bundling up for snow, Dubai transforms into a winter paradise — with clear skies, perfect temperatures (around 20–25°C), and a packed calendar of outdoor fun. Winter is the best time to explore the city’s beaches, deserts, and vibrant cultural festivals.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the best outdoor activities and festivals to enjoy during Dubai’s magical winter season.
- Stroll Through the Global Village
One of Dubai’s biggest seasonal attractions, Global Village is a cultural theme park that blends shopping, dining, and entertainment from over 90 countries. Wander through pavilions, catch live performances, and taste global street food — all in one place.
📍 Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
📅 Open: October to April
💰 Entry Fee: Around AED 25
- Take a Desert Safari Adventure
Winter is the perfect time to explore the golden dunes. Go for a sunset desert safari complete with dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, and a BBQ under the stars.
🏜️ Options: Budget group tours or luxury private safaris
🔥 Best time: Late afternoon for the sunset views
🧥 Tip: Bring a light jacket — desert nights get chilly
- Relax at Outdoor Beaches and Beach Clubs
Winter weather in Dubai is perfect for the beach — sunny but not scorching.
Best Beaches to Visit:
JBR Beach – family-friendly with restaurants and water sports
Kite Beach – great for paddleboarding and beach volleyball
La Mer – trendy beach with cafes, art walls, and chill vibes
Prefer a luxurious experience? Try beach clubs like Nikki Beach or Drift Beach Dubai for lounging, DJ sets, and gourmet dining.
- Catch a Show at Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF)
The Dubai Shopping Festival isn’t just about deals — it’s a city-wide celebration Dubai Trip Guides with fireworks, street performances, fashion shows, raffles, and concerts.
📅 When: December to January
🎤 What’s on: Live concerts, drone shows, pop-up markets
🛍️ Bonus: Massive discounts in malls and souks
- Wander Through Miracle Garden
Step into a floral wonderland at Dubai Miracle Garden, home to over 150 million blooming flowers arranged in mind-blowing displays — like a life-size Emirates A380 made entirely of flowers!
🌸 Open: November to April
📸 Instagram-worthy: Heart tunnels, Disney displays, butterfly domes
💰 Entry: Around AED 55 (adults)
- Watch Performances at Expo City Dubai
Even after Expo 2020, Expo City Dubai remains a lively hub for events, festivals, and immersive exhibits during winter.
🌍 Features: Pavilions, gardens, live shows, cultural performances
🎪 Winter City: Seasonal family fun, Christmas markets & snow zones
- Attend Outdoor Music and Food Festivals
Winter in Dubai is prime time for music gigs, food fests, and open-air cinema nights.
Popular Events:
Dubai Food Festival – street eats to gourmet tastings (Feb–Mar)
Emirates Airline Festival of Literature – author talks & readings (Feb)
RedFestDXB – international pop and EDM acts (Feb)
Check out West Beach, Dubai Design District, and Media City Amphitheatre for regular pop-up events.
- Explore Old Dubai on Foot
Take advantage of the cool weather to walk through Al Fahidi Historical District, ride an abra across Dubai Creek, and explore traditional souks (spice, gold, textiles). It’s a charming break from the glitz of the skyscrapers.
🕌 Highlights: Al Seef, Coffee Museum, Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
🧭 Tip: Go early evening for the golden light and cooler breeze
Final Thoughts
Winter in Dubai is when the city truly comes alive outdoors — with sunny skies, vibrant festivals, and endless ways to enjoy culture, nature, and entertainment. Whether you’re a beach lover, a foodie, or a culture explorer, winter offers something for everyone.
Pack your sunscreen and a light jacket — and get ready to fall in love with Dubai under the winter sun.