Thinking about spending Christmas in Dubai? You’ll find warm, pleasant weather instead of snow or icy winds. Daytime temperatures usually sit between 20°C and 26°C (68°F to 79°F), while evenings cool down closer to 17°C (63°F).
The air feels comfortable, and humidity drops compared to the sticky summer months. December honestly might be one of the best times to visit this part of the Middle East.
You’ll see how the mild weather lets you enjoy both outdoor and indoor activities. Beaches, desert tours, and city walks all feel inviting. Festive markets and indoor attractions stay lively, too, since you don’t have to deal with extreme heat.
Sometimes, a bit of morning fog rolls in or you get a quick, light rain, but these rarely mess up your plans.
Typical Weather Conditions During Christmas in Dubai
Expect mild daytime warmth, cooler evenings, and hardly any rain if you visit Dubai in December.
The climate stays dry. You’ll get plenty of sunshine, which means you can comfortably enjoy activities inside and out.
Average Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
Daytime temperatures around Christmas usually hit 24°C to 26°C (75°F–79°F). That’s warm enough for the beach, outdoor dining, or sightseeing, but nowhere near as hot as summer.
At night, the air cools to about 16°C–18°C (61°F–64°F). A light jacket or sweater usually does the trick if you’re out after dark.
The sea temperature averages 23°C–25°C (73°F–77°F), so swimming’s still a good idea. Unlike the summer, when it can get over 40°C (104°F), December feels much more balanced.
For a quick look:
| Time of Day | Temperature Range | Comfort Level |
|---|---|---|
| Daytime | 24–26°C (75–79°F) | Warm, pleasant |
| Nighttime | 16–18°C (61–64°F) | Mild, cooler |
| Sea Water | 23–25°C (73–77°F) | Comfortable for swimming |
Humidity and Rainfall Levels
Humidity in December jumps around but usually stays manageable. On drier days, it can drop to around 40%. But in the mornings, it might climb up to 80–90%, which sometimes brings fog.
That fog tends to show up at sunrise and can cut visibility for a few hours.
Rainfall barely makes an appearance. Dubai averages 15–20 mm of rain for the whole month, and it usually comes as short, light showers.
The air feels dry compared to tropical places, thanks to the desert climate. Cooler evenings feel refreshing, not sticky.
Carry a water bottle if you’re out a lot. It’s easy to forget to hydrate when it doesn’t feel hot.
Sunshine Hours and Daylight Duration
Dubai gets about 8 hours of sunshine per day in December. Sure, that’s less than in summer, but it’s still plenty for a packed day.
Sunrise is usually around 7:00 AM and sunset happens by 5:30 PM. The days feel shorter, so evenings come quick, giving you more time to check out Dubai’s nightlife, shopping, and dining after dark.
Clear skies and bright sun make afternoons feel warmer than the numbers suggest. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and light clothes help during the day.
This reliable daylight, plus the mild weather, really makes December one of the most comfortable months to explore the city.
What to Expect: December Climate in Dubai
December brings mild days, cool evenings, and hardly any rain. The weather feels great for being outside, and air quality usually stays stable, so traveling then just makes sense.
Comparison with Other Months
December feels way cooler than Dubai’s summer. In July and August, daytime highs can go over 40°C (104°F). December’s highs hover around 25–27°C (77–81°F), and nighttime lows drop to 16–19°C (61–66°F). You might want a light jacket after sunset.
Humidity drops too. Late summer can bring 80% humidity or more, but in December, it usually sits between 50–60%, which feels a lot nicer for walking around.
Rain hardly ever shows up, but it can happen. You might see 1–2 short showers in the month, but they’re brief and easy to ignore.
Sea temperatures stay warm at about 24–25°C (75–77°F), so swimming and water sports are still on the table. December’s mix of cooler air and warm water feels just right for a lot of visitors.
Wind and Air Quality Overview
December winds in Dubai usually stay light to moderate. Average wind speeds are 10–15 km/h (6–9 mph), though sometimes it gets breezier near the coast.
These breezes help cut the daytime warmth and make outdoor areas more comfortable.
Air quality holds steady in December. Lower humidity and cooler temperatures mean there’s less dust and haze than in summer.
Early mornings can bring fog, especially on highways or open ground, but it usually clears up by mid-morning.
Sandstorms don’t happen often in December, though you can’t rule them out. If one does hit, it’s usually over quickly.
Most of the time, you’ll get clear skies and good visibility, which really makes outdoor activities and sightseeing better.
How the Weather Impacts Christmas Activities
Mild days and cooler nights shape how you spend Christmas in Dubai. The weather makes outdoor celebrations a lot more fun, and you can still hit the beach or sea without roasting.
Outdoor Events and Festive Markets
With daytime highs around 24–26°C (75–78°F), you can stroll Christmas markets, catch outdoor concerts, or see tree lighting ceremonies without breaking a sweat.
The dry desert air means rain almost never cancels events.
Evenings drop to 14–18°C (57–64°F), so bring a light jacket if you’re planning to be outside at night. The cooler air adds a nice touch for enjoying food stalls, live music, and all those twinkling lights.
Places like Madinat Jumeirah’s Festive Market or Expo City’s Winter Village really count on this kind of weather. Warm afternoons let families enjoy rides and games, while crisp nights make the lights pop.
Honestly, the mild climate is a big reason these events get huge crowds in December.
Beach and Water Activities
December’s weather means you can enjoy the coast, too. The sea temperature averages 24–26°C (75–78°F), which feels great for swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking.
Unlike summer, you can stay out for hours without worrying about the heat.
Beach clubs and waterfront spots offer all sorts of seasonal activities, from festive movie nights to holiday fun runs.
Relax on the sand during the day, then head back in the evening for cooler events by the water.
Morning fog might limit visibility now and then, but it usually disappears quickly. Once it’s gone, you’ll find calm conditions perfect for relaxing or playing in the water all Christmas long.
What to Wear in Dubai at Christmas
December brings warm days and cooler nights, so you’ll want to dress for comfort and modesty. Lightweight fabrics work well for the day, but you’ll probably need an extra layer after sunset.
Recommended Clothing for Day and Night
During the day, highs reach the mid-20s °C (mid to upper 70s °F). You’ll feel fine in light cotton tops, knee-length dresses, or linen trousers.
Short sleeves and breathable fabrics help you stay cool while you’re out and about.
Evenings can dip to 17–20 °C (low 60s °F). A light sweater, cardigan, or jacket is a good idea, especially if you’re eating outdoors or heading out on a desert safari.
Closed shoes or loafers might feel better than sandals at night.
For the beach or pool, swimsuits are fine, but stick to hotel pools and private beaches. Throw on a cover-up or loose shirt when you’re walking to and from the water.
Packing tip:
| Time of Day | Suggested Clothing |
|---|---|
| Daytime | Light cotton tops, dresses, shorts, sandals |
| Evening | Sweater/jacket, long pants, closed shoes |
| Beach/Pool | Swimsuit with cover-up |
Cultural Considerations and Dress Codes
Dubai’s modern, but dress codes still matter in public. You should wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees in malls, traditional markets, and government buildings. This goes for both men and women.
Women can wear dresses or skirts, just avoid anything too short or revealing. Men should skip sleeveless shirts in public.
Swimwear works only at pools, beaches, or waterparks.
If you visit religious sites, like mosques, dress more conservatively. Women need a scarf for their hair and should wear long sleeves with ankle-length skirts or trousers. Men should wear long pants and steer clear of tight tops.
When you follow these guidelines, you’ll feel at ease and fit in with local expectations.
Travel Tips for Visiting Dubai During Christmas
Expect mild days and cooler nights, so pack for comfort, sun protection, and respect for local culture. Staying safe in the dry desert air means keeping hydrated and timing your outdoor plans smartly.
Packing Essentials for the Weather
Daytime temps in December often reach the mid-20s °C (mid-70s °F). Cotton shirts, linen trousers, and light dresses will keep you cool. Evenings get a bit chilly, so toss a light jacket or cardigan in your bag.
The sun’s still strong, even in winter. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 30+), and a wide-brimmed hat for outdoor time. Comfortable walking shoes come in handy for malls, markets, and exploring.
Since Dubai’s a Muslim country, modest clothing is best in public. Women should carry a scarf or shawl for mosques or traditional areas. Swimwear is fine at hotel pools and beaches, but not on city streets.
A small umbrella or light rain jacket might help, since quick showers do happen. If you plan to swim, the sea’s pleasant, so pack swimwear for both the beach and hotel pools.
Health and Safety Advice
The desert can dehydrate you fast, even when it feels cool. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink up. Skip sugary drinks as your main hydration source.
Do your outdoor sightseeing early or later in the day to dodge the strongest sun. Fog is common on December mornings, so allow some extra time if you’ve got early tours or flights.
Use sunscreen every day, even if the sky looks hazy. The UV index stays moderate to high. Don’t forget your neck and ears.
Respect local customs—it’ll save you hassle. Public displays of affection aren’t the norm, and alcohol is only served in licensed spots. Keep a copy of your ID or passport handy.
If you have asthma or breathing sensitivities, be aware that dust and sand can affect air quality. Bring any medication you need, and avoid heavy outdoor activity when it’s windy.
Summary of Dubai’s Christmas Weather and Final Thoughts
If you visit Dubai in December, you’ll find mild and pleasant conditions. Daytime temperatures usually sit between 20°C and 26°C (68°F–79°F).
Evenings cool down to about 17°C–21°C (63°F–70°F), so you might want to bring a light layer. Rain can happen, but honestly, it’s not that common.
Showers come and go quickly, and most days stay clear rather than cloudy. Sometimes, early mornings bring a bit of fog, especially if you’re near the coast.
You’ll notice humidity drops compared to Dubai’s summer, which makes being outside a lot more comfortable. The sea temperature averages around 24–25°C (75°F–77°F), so swimming is definitely still on the table.
Here’s a quick reference for Dubai in December:
| Condition | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Daytime Highs | 23–26°C (73–79°F) |
| Evening Lows | 17–21°C (63–70°F) |
| Sea Temperature | 24–25°C (75–77°F) |
| Rainfall | Light, occasional |
You can hit the beaches, try a desert trip, or enjoy outdoor dining without sweating through your clothes. The weather really sets the stage for seasonal events, markets, and festive activities all over the city.
If you’re thinking about traveling during this time, pack light clothing for the daytime. Toss in a light jacket too, just in case evenings get a bit chilly.
Honestly, the mix of warmth and comfort makes Dubai in December a solid pick for relaxing or sightseeing.