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Summer in Abu Dhabi is a traveller’s best-kept secret. The city gives you all the benefits of off-season travel: flights and hotel rates drop, queues shrink and restaurant reservations are easier to come by. But even in its "off" season, Abu Dhabi stays fully switched on.
Mornings are for wandering through cool galleries and museums, while afternoons belong to malls so big you might need a map. Early evenings are perfect for sipping sundowners or checking out the local events scene, and after 7 PM, a cool ocean breeze rolls in to welcome everyone back outside.
You don't need a summer survival guide, because the city thrives in any temperature. You just need to know how locals do summer. Discover what summer in Abu Dhabi is really like, temperatures and all. Now, you’re in on the secret too.
Things to do outdoors this summer
Yes, summer days are hot, but that doesn't mean staying indoors. Time your adventures right, and you'll find plenty of ways to enjoy Abu Dhabi's outdoors, from sunset kayaking to evenings by the water.
More to do this summer
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Ready to plan your trip?
Browse through helpful tips and guides to plan your trip to Abu Dhabi this summer.
Frequently asked questions
Is Abu Dhabi too hot in summer?
Abu Dhabi is hot in summer, but not too hot to visit, provided you build the day around indoor venues and post-sunset outdoor time. Highs reach 42 °C in July and August, with humidity around 60 per cent on the coast. From 6 PM the temperature drops into the low 30s with breezes often coming in from the ocean, and the city moves outside again. Mornings before 9 AM are also workable for outdoor activity.
What is the weather in summer like in Abu Dhabi?
Summer weather in Abu Dhabi is hot and humid. Daytime highs sit at 38 to 42 °C between June and September, with overnight lows around 29 to 32 °C. Coastal humidity reaches 60 per cent or more. Rain is rare in summer; the heat is dry early in the season and humid by late August.
What are the best things to do in Abu Dhabi in summer?
The best things to do in Abu Dhabi in summer are indoor attractions during the day and outdoor experiences after 6 PM. Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi are the strongest indoor picks. After sunset, the Corniche, Mangrove National Park kayaking and dinner at Al Mina are all comfortable outdoors.
How long is summer in Abu Dhabi?
Summer in Abu Dhabi runs from June to September, with the hottest months being July and August. Temperatures begin to climb in May and ease in October. The peak heat window is roughly mid-June to mid-September; this is also when hotel rates drop and indoor attractions are at their quietest.
Are hotels and attractions cheaper in summer?
Yes, by a lot. Five-star hotels on Saadiyat Island and Yas Island drop their rates up to 40 per cent between June and September. Theme parks and museums always have bundle packages available as well.
What should I pack for summer in Abu Dhabi?
Light, loose, breathable cotton or linen. A reusable water bottle — free refill stations are everywhere. A light scarf or shrug for indoor air conditioning, which is set strong. For Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and traditional souks, clothing that covers shoulders and knees.