Independent UAE trip planning
Plan the UAE trip you actually want.
Honest, practical planning for Dubai, Abu Dhabi and beyond: the best time to go, which city suits you and how to book experiences that are worth it.
When to go, month by month
Best time to visit →- JanuaryMild, sunny; cool eveningsBest
- FebruaryMild to warmBest
- MarchWarmBest
- AprilHot daysShoulder
- MayVery hotShoulder
- JuneExtremely hot and humidSummer
- JulyExtremely hot and humidSummer
- AugustExtremely hot and humidSummer
- SeptemberVery hotSummer
- OctoberHot, becoming pleasantShoulder
- NovemberWarm and pleasantBest
- DecemberMild and sunnyBest
- Best: November to March
- Shoulder: April, May and October
- Summer: June to September
Choose your emirate
Itineraries
Practical essentials
- VisasUAE Tourist Visa: Who Needs One and How to Apply
- Getting aroundDubai Metro Guide: Nol Cards, Fares and Routes
- What to wearWhat to Wear in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
- SIM and eSIMUAE SIM Cards and eSIMs for Tourists
- Local lawsUAE Laws for Tourists: What You Need to Know
- Daily costsIs Dubai Expensive? A Realistic Daily Budget
- The airportDubai Airport Guide: Arrivals, Transport and Departures
- RamadanVisiting the UAE During Ramadan: What to Know
More trip ideas
Independent
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Sourced
We check facts against primary sources and official guidance, and list them on every guide.
Kept current
We revisit guides when facts, prices or rules change, and date every update.