How do we make the most of summer in the UAE?
From May to September daytime highs reach about 38–42°C, and daily life moves to early mornings, evenings and indoors. With a little planning, it’s a season many residents enjoy.
In 30 seconds
- Plan outdoor time for early mornings and evenings, and the middle of the day for indoor plans
- Dubai’s private school year is expected to end on 2 July 2027, and many families spend part of the summer in the UK
- Drink plenty of water even when you’re not thirsty, and never leave children or pets in a parked car
A summer day that works
| When | What people do |
|---|---|
| Early morning | Beach, a run, padel or a walk before the heat builds |
| Middle of the day | Indoors: work, holiday clubs, malls, museums, cinemas, ice rinks and indoor play |
| Evening | Pools, beach walks and terraces once the sun drops |
| Weekends | Indoor sport, a staycation, or a short flight somewhere cooler |
Trips and school holidays
Dubai’s private schools work to a calendar approved by KHDA, the schools regulator. For 2026–27 the year is expected to end on Friday 2 July 2027, after a winter break from 14 December to 3 January and a spring break from 5 to 11 April. Schools have some flexibility, so check yours before you book.
- Many families spend part of the summer in the UK. Book early for school-holiday dates
- Keep long trips under 180 days in a row: a residence visa is cancelled automatically if you stay outside the UAE longer than that
- Ask your employer early about leave: summer is when most colleagues want it too
Staying well in the heat
- Drink plenty of fluids, even when you don’t feel thirsty
- Stay in the shade around the middle of the day, and use sun cream and a hat outdoors
- Never leave children or pets in a parked car, even for a minute
- Walk dogs early in the morning or late in the evening, when the ground is cooler
- In an emergency, call 998 for an ambulance
Your home and bills
Air conditioning runs for much longer in summer. DEWA charges a higher rate per unit as your use goes up, so bills are usually highest in the hottest months. A service before May helps the system cope, and setting it a degree or two warmer when you’re out saves money.
If you work outdoors, or employ staff
From 15 June to 15 September, work in direct sun is not allowed from 12:30 to 3pm.
What to do next
- Plan outdoor time for early mornings and evenings from May
- Check your school’s summer dates before you book flights
- Keep summer trips under 180 days in a row outside the UAE
Keep going
- Dubai climate normals 1991–2020
- Khaleej Times: Dubai school calendar 2026–27
- u.ae: general provisions for the residence visa
- MoHAP: tips to stay safe during the summer
- DEWA: slab tariff
- MOHRE: the midday break
- u.ae: working hours and overtime