Winter in Abu Dhabi

image alt text

Is winter a good time to visit Abu Dhabi?

Yes. Winter is Abu Dhabi's best season, running from November to March with daytime temperatures around 24°C to 30°C and cool, comfortable evenings. The sea stays warm enough to swim all winter, most days bring eight to ten hours of sunshine, and rain is rare. Etihad flies direct from New York, Washington DC, Chicago and Boston, putting Abu Dhabi within reach for a winter break.

This is Abu Dhabi's outdoor season, when beaches, desert experiences, terraces and open air events all run at full pace. Light clothing is enough by day, with a light jacket for December and January evenings. Winter is also peak season, so book early for the best choice of hotels. If you're planning a first visit, this is the best time to come.

Things to do in Abu Dhabi in winter

See all
image alt text
Do winter outdoors
image alt text
Do the season's biggest moments
image alt text
Winter nights in Abu Dhabi
image alt text
Do winter with the family

How long are you staying for?

Build your own itinerary
vector desktop

Plan your trip

Flight information
Get your visa
Getting around the city
What to pack
Traveller's inspiration

Frequently Asked Questions

For your Abu Dhabi trip in December, pack light, breathable clothing as daytime temperatures sit between 20 and 30°C with low humidity. Pack a light jacket or layer for evenings, particularly later in the evening, as temperatures can drop below 20°C. Sunscreen is essential year-round. If you're visiting mosques or cultural sites, bring modest clothing, shoulders and knees covered. Comfortable walking shoes are worth adding to your packing list, especially if you're planning desert or heritage visits.

December is one of the best months for a desert safari. Winter temperatures make the desert far more comfortable than summer, expect daytime temperatures around 25 to 28°C and cooler evenings, ideal for a sunset safari, dune bashing or an overnight camp. The night sky in the Liwa Desert in December is particularly clear.

Most malls in Abu Dhabi close between 10 PM and midnight on weekdays, and stay open until midnight or later on weekends. Yas Mall and Abu Dhabi Mall are among the largest.

Yes. Sea temperatures in December sit at around 24°C, warm and comfortable for swimming. January and February are slightly cooler at around 22°C, but most people find it perfectly swimmable. Hotel pools are heated throughout the season if you prefer.

Yes there are plenty of outdoor dining options in Abu Dhabi. Most restaurants with terrace seating open their outdoor areas fully from November through March. The Corniche, Yas Bay Waterfront and Saadiyat Island all have strong outdoor dining options. Hotel beach clubs and rooftop restaurants also run their outdoor spaces through the season.

Yas Bay Waterfront is the liveliest option, with restaurants and bars buzzing. The Corniche is better for a slower evening: a long promenade, open-air cafes and the city skyline. Saadiyat Island is quieter but has strong dining options near the cultural district.