December is considered the ideal time to travel to Dubai. After the scorching summer, the city enters a gentle winter, with temperatures ranging from 18-26°C, not too hot and not too cold, perfect for outdoor activities.
Overview of Dubai in December: Why Choose This Time?
In Dubai, December offers the most comfortable weather of the year. The days are dry, sunny, and cool, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures typically range from 18-26°C, perfect for exploring the city without the intense heat of summer.
Compared to summer (May to September) when temperatures exceed 40°C, traveling to Dubai in December offers a more pleasant and comfortable experience. Beyond favorable weather, December is also Dubai’s vibrant festival season.
A series of exciting events take place, from shopping festivals to New Year fireworks, attracting a large number of tourists. The lively atmosphere provides the perfect opportunity to combine sightseeing, cultural experiences, and shopping for luxury brands in Dubai at discounted prices. December also coincides with the year-end holidays in many countries, making it convenient for travelers to plan an extended Dubai adventure. Overall, December is the perfect time to enjoy comfortable weather, festive events, and a full cultural experience in Dubai.
Weather in Dubai in December
When traveling to Dubai in December, you’ll experience a gentle and comfortable winter, ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city. Daytime temperatures range from 18-26°C, perfect for outdoor activities such as desert safaris, swimming at Jumeirah Beach, or strolling along Dubai Marina without feeling overheated. At night, temperatures drop to around 17-20°C, providing a cool, refreshing atmosphere, especially during desert experiences.
Average humidity is 50-60%, making it easy for your body to adjust, while rainfall occurs only about 5-7 days per month, hardly affecting your plans. Dubai enjoys around 8-9 hours of sunlight per day, ideal for photography and outdoor sightseeing.
Major Events and Festivals in Dubai in December
December is Dubai’s most festive month, attracting millions of international tourists. The cool and comfortable weather makes it perfect for outdoor activities, exploring Middle Eastern culture, and enjoying the vibrant city life.
UAE National Day – December 2
On December 2, the United Arab Emirates celebrates National Day. Dubai is adorned with colorful flags, and many cultural and artistic activities take place. Visitors can join parades, enjoy light shows, and watch spectacular fireworks. It’s a great opportunity to feel the festive atmosphere and the pride of the UAE people.
Dubai Shopping Festival
From mid-December to early January, Dubai hosts the Dubai Shopping Festival, the largest shopping event of the year. Discounts range from 25-90% at famous malls such as Dubai Mall, Mall of Emirates, and Outlet Village. This is ideal for those who love shopping and hunting for branded products at great prices.
New Year Countdown and Fireworks at Burj Khalifa
The New Year countdown at Burj Khalifa is considered one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in the world. Visitors often arrive in the afternoon to secure a good spot, ready for an unforgettable countdown moment. The fireworks combined with the dazzling lights of the tallest building in the world create a truly memorable experience.
Dubai Marathon & Global Village Season 29
Besides winter shopping and food activities, December in Dubai also features large-scale events. The Dubai Marathon attracts thousands of professional runners and sports enthusiasts worldwide. The route passes through iconic Dubai landmarks, offering an exciting experience for participants.
Global Village Season 29 is a cultural hotspot during the Dubai winter. The area hosts hundreds of pavilions representing many countries, creating a lively festival atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy international cuisine, watch artistic performances, and explore unique handicrafts. It’s the perfect place to experience Dubai’s multicultural vibrancy in winter.
Read more: Discover Dubai Travel 2025
Must-Visit Attractions in Dubai in December
December is the perfect time to explore Dubai thanks to its cool and comfortable weather, ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and photography. Here are some must-visit attractions:
|
Attraction |
Activities & Experiences | Tips for Visitors |
|
Burj Khalifa |
Enjoy panoramic views of Dubai, take stunning photos | Book online 1-2 weeks in advance, especially during the year-end |
|
Dubai Mall |
Shopping, visit Dubai Aquarium, watch Dubai Fountain show | The mall is huge with numerous areas to explore |
|
Palm Jumeirah & Atlantis |
Visit the palm-shaped island, Aquaventure Waterpark, luxury resorts |
Perfect for families and young groups; pre-book waterpark tickets |
| Dubai Marina | Cruise, dine by the sea, check in at “mini Manhattan” |
Visit in the afternoon/evening to enjoy cool weather and night lights |
| Dubai Miracle Garden | Stroll and take photos among millions of flowers |
Winter weather is very pleasant, ideal for outdoor photography |
| Desert Safari | Off-road driving on sand, camel riding, BBQ, belly dance show |
Desert nights are cold; bring a light jacket for comfort |
Read more: What to Wear in Dubai?
Suggested 4-Day, 3-Night Itinerary for Dubai in December
December is ideal for exploring Dubai’s modern landmarks such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Dubai Creek, while also experiencing traditional culture at Deira markets or desert activities like camel riding, sandboarding, and visiting the Palm Jumeirah.
Day 1: Explore Downtown
- Morning: Start at Burj Khalifa, enjoy city views from the observation deck.
- Afternoon: Walk around and shop at Dubai Mall, visit the aquarium, ice rink, and entertainment areas.
- Evening: Watch the Dubai Fountain show and have dinner nearby, soaking up the lively downtown atmosphere.
Day 2: Culture and Desert Adventure
- Morning: Explore Dubai Creek and traditional markets in Deira, including the Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Silk Souk.
- Afternoon: Join a desert tour with camel riding, sandboarding, and enjoy the sunset in the desert.
- Evening: Have a traditional Arabic dinner at a desert camp with cultural performances.
Day 3: Artificial Islands and Iconic Structures
- Morning: Visit Palm Jumeirah and take the monorail for aerial views.
- Afternoon: Explore Madinat Jumeirah with its traditional Arabic architecture or stroll around Dubai Marina.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner and admire the city lights at night.
Day 4: Shopping and Departure
- Morning: Buy last-minute souvenirs at markets or malls.
- Afternoon: Depending on your flight, visit Miracle Garden or other attractions before heading to the airport.
Preparation Tips for Dubai Travel in December
Ready to explore Dubai in December? The cool weather is perfect for sightseeing, festivals, and outdoor activities.
First, prepare your visa. Vietnamese citizens must have a visa to enter Dubai, and applications should be submitted at least 7-10 days in advance. If you haven’t secured a visa or want to save time, iVISA can help you complete the process quickly, ensuring you depart on schedule.
Next, consider your luggage. A light jacket is useful for cool evenings or desert safaris. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat will protect you under Dubai’s bright winter sun.
For payments, Dubai uses Dirham (AED), and most stores, malls, and restaurants accept international cards. You can also buy a travel SIM at the airport to stay connected throughout your trip.
Xem thêm: Self-Guided Travel to Dubai
Culinary Delights in Dubai in December
Dubai is a food paradise offering a wide variety of choices, from traditional dishes to international cuisine. December’s cool weather makes dining outdoors even more enjoyable.
Must-Try Local Dishes
- Al Machboos: Rice mixed with chicken, lamb, or fish, richly spiced.
- Shawarma: Grilled meat wrap, widely popular in Dubai.
- Luqaimat: Deep-fried sweet dumplings drizzled with syrup.
- Hummus & Falafel: Chickpea dip and fried patties, served with pita bread.
- Gahwa: Aromatic Arabic coffee.
- Karak Chai: Spiced tea with milk, a local favorite.
Popular Dining Areas and Cuisine Types
- Traditional Souks: Enjoy Shawarma, Luqaimat, and spices in a lively atmosphere.
- Fine Dining: Dubai is famous for high-end restaurants with international cuisine and scenic views.
- International Cuisine: Easily find Indian, Italian, Chinese, and more.
- Outdoor Dining: December’s cool weather is perfect for seaside or garden meals.
Dining in Dubai in December is always memorable-you savor flavors while exploring the city’s culture and unique ambiance.
FAQs About Traveling to Dubai in December
Is Dubai beautiful in December?
Yes, Dubai in December is stunning. The cool weather allows comfortable sightseeing, strolling, and participation in major festivals such as Dubai Shopping Festival or the Burj Khalifa countdown. The city, desert, and beach scenery are enhanced by soft winter light.
Can you swim in Dubai in December?
Yes, the sea temperature ranges from 23-25°C, warm enough for swimming and relaxing on the white sand beaches. The cool weather also makes outdoor activities more enjoyable.
Is Dubai crowded in December?
December is the peak tourist season. Visitors flock to Dubai, especially during year-end festivals. Book flights, hotels, and attraction tickets early to avoid sold-out situations or high prices.
Should I book Burj Khalifa tickets in advance?
Yes, Burj Khalifa is extremely popular. Tickets sell out quickly, especially during festivals and weekends. Booking online 1-2 weeks in advance ensures your spot and saves waiting time.
Do Vietnamese citizens need a visa for Dubai?
Yes, a visa is required. If you haven’t prepared your documents or lack time, contact iVISA, which can help you secure your Dubai visa quickly.
Did you know over 98% of iVISA travelers successfully received their Dubai visa? Do you want to be one of them and start enjoying an amazing Dubai trip this December? Contact iVISA to get your visa fast and experience the luxury of Dubai firsthand!
iVISA Property & Citizenship
- Add: Số 99 Nguyễn Thị Nhung, phường Hiệp Bình, TPHCM
- Hotline: 0937 999 610
- Email: info.ivisatravel@gmail.com









