Top Places to Visit in Dubai during Summer (Free and Paid) 

The city of Dubai never sleeps. It has something to offer around the clock, every single month of the year. A popular notion that tourists visiting Dubai follow is to avoid it during summer because of the scorching heat. While it may be true that the emirate does get extremely hot, there are still a bunch of things you can do to elevate your enjoyment in the city during the summer season.

With summer fast approaching in the UAE, many outdoor attractions in Dubai are beginning to close for the season. But do not worry — the city still offers plenty of ways to have fun without braving the heat. These attractions stay open all year round, making sure you and your family are not stuck at home this summer.

Basically, if you know your way around the emirate, you will still find a wide range of options to have unlimited fun from. And we are here to acquaint you with these places that remain open throughout the year and ensure that you do not have to remain stuck at home during summer.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Dubai during Summer

Make the best of your summer by visiting these amazing places in Dubai, whether by yourself or with your loved ones. From amusement parks to aquariums, from nature offerings to extravagant malls, we have compiled this list by putting together a diverse range of options for you to choose from. 

Ski Dubai

When people think of Dubai, we are certain that snow is not among the first 100 things that come to their mind. Well, prepare to get your mind blown as Ski Dubai is about to change that notion once and for all. 

The perfect place to visit to beat the midday sun, Ski Dubai is a purpose-built indoor ski resort that offers a myriad of family-friendly activities. From the thrill of snowboarding to the uniqueness of watching a film at the Snow Cinema, you will never run out of options to enjoy in this chilling centre located on the ground floor of the Mall of the Emirates. 

Bounce down a snowy slope while being inside a giant inflatable Zorb ball, enjoy the thrills of snow park rides, fly over the icy slopes on the snow bullet zipline, catch a ride to the top of the slope on a chairlift, and more. 

The biggest prize is, however, getting the chance to have a first-hand encounter with various species of penguins in front of your eyes. There is also a Ski Academy, where you can book a lesson with trained instructors. Participate in ski and snowboarding private lessons while enjoying ski camps and become a part of the thrilling snow sports community in Dubai. 

The Green Planet

Discover the wonders of nature up and close at The Green Planet located at Al Wasl in Dubai. This nature escapade is the ideal indoor rainforest for you to explore as it is home to fascinating inhabitants, each with their distinct habits and behaviours. 

This enchanting biodome offers you the unique opportunity to encounter wildlife and learn how they contribute to Earth's thriving ecosystem. Whether you want to organise school field trips for an educational immersive experience or take a nature trail along the shaded botanical gardens, The Green Planet is a paradise for nature lovers. 

From Burmese pythons to anacondas, from macaws to flying foxes, from lemurs to slots, you name it, and you will find it in this rainforest filled with mammals, reptiles, birds, insects, and night creatures. Home to over 3,000 plants and animals, do not miss the chance to check out the only indoor rainforest of Dubai. 

You can nestle down amongst the rainforest inhabitants by taking a camping experience complete with nocturnal tours, animal interaction, and a buffet dinner. In addition, you can even become a zookeeper for a day wherein the expert team of the establishment help you learn more about the various endangered species of the planet.  

Bounce Dubai

Combining the excitement of airbags, trampolines and adventure challenges, Bounce is a freestyle playground that offers action entertainment. It intends to inspire everyone to forget the serious stuff and immerse them in fun and adventure. 

Whether you are a pre-schooler or a teenager, an elite athlete or a fitness class enthusiast, Bounce caters to all your interests. Run up the Wall, loosen up in the Free-jump Arena, launch yourself into the Big Bag -essentially go crazy at Bounce. 

With 32 venues across 16 countries including one in Al Quoz, Dubai, this is your one-stop destination that stands on the principle of creative expression, human connection, and inspiring movement. It is a 3,000 sq. m. of sheer interconnected indoor trampolines, airbags, and padding designed to give you an adrenaline rush like no other. 

The best part about Bounce is that it can be as challenging as you want it to be if you are up for a challenge. It can act as a training ground for you to practise aerial sports acrobatics, it can be a place for you to kick back and assess your action, or it can be a hardcore exercise that lets you burn energy without even realising it. 

IMG Worlds of Adventure

For all those adrenaline-seekers out there, get yourself a ticket to the largest indoor theme park in Dubai – IMG Worlds of Adventure – for a hair-raising experience that will leave you with a spine-tingling sensation. 

The largest temperature-controlled indoor environment destination in the world, IMG Worlds of Adventure, is located at E311, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road near Arabian Ranches next to the Global Village in the heart of Dubai. With an area of 1.5 million sq. ft., the amusement park can accommodate a whopping 20,000 guests every day. 

It is the first mega-themed entertainment destination in Dubai and has six jaw-dropping adventure zones, each with its distinct persona. Two of these zones are based on world-famous iconic global brands – Cartoon Network and Marvel. The other four zones are all original concepts created by IMG itself – The Haunted Tow, Lost Valley – Dinosaur Adventure, IMG Kids Zone, and IMG Boulevard. 

Get up and close with legendary Marvel superheroes and Cartoon Network characters along with real-life replicas of pre-historic dinosaurs while getting a kick of adrenaline on thrilling rides. The signature array of bespoke experiences that you will come across is unparalleled, making it the perfect leisure family entertainment corner of the city. 

AYA Universe

Located at Wafi City, Oud Metha in Dubai, AYA Universe is a hidden sanctuary waiting for you to discover its gifted gems. It is the gateway to an ancient future born light years away. Providing an out-of-the-world experience for the visitors, who are known as travellers here, this is one of the unique places to visit in Dubai. 

Covering an area of 4,000 sq. m., there are twelve mesmerising experiences that you can enjoy. Explore the multi-faceted diverse zones of AYA Universe, each having a stunning and distinct identity – Drift, Aurora, The Pool, Flora, Tides, The Falls, The River, Celestia, Luna, Outland, The Source, and Harmonia. 

Whether you want to dance with the light or command galaxies, lay amongst the stars or wander through luminous gardens, this place truly opens the door for you to experience wonders and uncover mysteries of the universe.   

It is the perfect amalgamation of technology and art; the path to explore the invisible terrestrial and cosmic connections to beauty and each other. From making music with light to commanding the hearts of the cosmos, from witnessing flowers bloom and stars sing to playing in an arena where the gravity is reversed, AYA Universe surpasses expectations in providing you with a novel day out.

KidZania

An activity-packed indoor city, KidZania is where playing and learning collide for an ultimate day out with children that they will never forget. It is a humongous replica of a real city that brings together education and entertainment. Apt for children aged between 4-16, you will find over 70 real-life activities for your kids to explore here. 

This is an interactive city for kids that will open their perspectives on varied real-life prospects. From allowing the opportunity to develop decision-making skills to enabling social skills and creativity, KidZania allows children to discover the nuances of different types of real-life jobs through various exciting role-play situations. 

Visiting children will have their own version of a bank, hospital, radio station, TV station, fire station, pizzeria, supermarket, and more. Essentially, your kids will get a glimpse of what is it like to work in all of them, giving them major insights about their future career avenues. 

Similar to real life, your kids will also earn money in KidZania when they work. With every completed job, they will earn in KidZos – KidZania’s very own currency. They then get to spend the money on various activities and items across the city. Fully-trained adults work hand-in-hand with your children to help them accomplish their tasks and they ensure your children have fun, be independent, and stay safe while working. 

Dubai Hills Mall

It is a universally accepted fact that Dubai is one of the finest shopping destinations in the world with an extravagant retail and fashion industry catapulting the city to the forefront of the global market. So, if you are visiting Dubai, you need to check out its shopping offerings; and one place that provides you with the best shopping experience in the city is none other than the Dubai Hills Mall. 

Spanning a whopping area of 2 million sq. ft., Dubai Hills Mall is strategically located within Dubai Hills Estate. The easy accessibility, being in one of Dubai’s prime areas for investment, heightens the appeal of this mall further. This two-level mall features the emirate’s best retail, entertainment, and dining concepts while regularly hosting highly anticipated pop-up displays and in-store events.

This is the premier family-friendly lifestyle destination that houses the who’s who of global brands under the sun. In addition, you can also explore world-class cinema experiences along with adrenaline-pumping rides. 

And between your adventures, there are plenty of avenues to munch and dine in the finest restaurants of the culinary world with a dynamic setting and a vibrant menu of international cuisines. World-class restaurants and eateries offer irresistible breakfast, lunch, and dinner options that you can’t say no to. 

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Suppose you are a fan of the underwater world and marine creatures. In that case, you will relish a visit to the iconic Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo as it will unleash your sense of adventure with an unparalleled experience. Allowing you to get a closer look into ocean conservation and exploration, this zoo is the largest suspended aquarium in the world. 

With over 100 species of marine life and the capacity to hold 10 million litres of water in its tank, this is truly a serene journey beneath the water's surface. Treat yourself to an underwater adventure through a transparent tunnel as you watch a wide range of marine life including sharks and rays glide around you. Embark on a glass-bottom boat ride and mesmerise yourself in the marine world unfolding directly underneath you. 

There are three distinct ecological zones for you to check out - The Rainforest where freshwater fish thrive along with reptiles and amphibians, the Rocky Shore where sea meets land hosting harrier rock pole inhabitants, and the Living Ocean where coral reefs shimmer and sharks patrol the vastness of the water. 

Witness the magic of the diverse ocean world and experience the thrilling display of professional divers participating in shark and ray feeding sessions. The peaceful ambience of this zoo is bound to calm your senses. 

Wild Wadi

Located in Jumeirah next to the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Burj Al Arab, Wild Wadi is the ultimate water park of the city which is the perfect way to escape the heat during those unforgiving summer days. 

Ideal for both adventure lovers and those who want a soothing day out in the water, Wild Wadi is a magical oasis that you cannot afford to miss. This is what you call a tropical paradise where you can even plan school outings and birthday parties. The broad range of experiences in this water park will leave you spellbound.

Defy gravity in the high-speed aquatic rollercoaster in ‘Master Blaster’, surf your heart out in ‘Wipeout & Riptide FlowRider’, enjoy multiple tornadoes and slides together in ‘Tantrum Ally’, or have a leisurely family-friendly interactive moment in ‘Action River’. 

In addition, this amusement park also has the distinction of having the largest wave pool in the Middle East at ‘Breaker’s Bay’ where waves reach a height of 1.5 m. With plenty of dining options as well, you can rest assured that you will have your day’s worth when you step inside this park with your loved ones. 

Dubai Butterfly Garden

If you truly want to have a unique summer experience in Dubai, you need to head to Dubai Butterfly Garden, located just next to Dubai Miracle Garden. Featuring a whopping 15,000 butterflies from over 50 varieties, this is the largest covered butterfly garden in the world. 

The garden consists of ten custom-built climate-controlled domes, each carrying thousands and thousands of these magnificently winged creatures. As the temperature of the garden is maintained at 18-25 degrees Celsius all year round, you can comfortably stroll around it without breaking a sweat. 

Witness butterflies of varied colours and sizes flying all around you and see first-hand how they evolve from one stage to another.  You will also get to see Monarch Butterflies, whose wings span up to 12 cm.

Between your exploration, indulge in tasty snacks of popcorn, gelato, and nachos, and sip on fresh fruit juices. Also, don’t forget to check out the Butterfly Museum, where you will get to discover splendid artworks of artisans who use real butterflies. You can even take a souvenir home to celebrate your time in the garden. The educational area of the garden is also a must-visit to gain significant knowledge of these creatures. 

Best Places to Visit in Dubai in Summer for Free

Even though Dubai is one of the most expensive cities in the world to live in, there is no lack of options to enjoy yourself without spending any money whatsoever. If you are looking for the best places to visit in Dubai for free in the summer, we have some amazing recommendations for you.

Alserkal Avenue

Alserkal Avenue is a cutting-edge centre of arts and culture that truly can’t be justifiably defined unless you step into it. As the ephemeral commissions of different artists pop up, the avenue magically shifts its shape. 

From outdoor fitness to arts festivals, this place bristles with energy all year round. Daredevils and dreamers experience the impossible happening in front of their eyes at this beautiful juncture.

This free-to-visit place is home to the finest contemporary art galleries in the region. As an industrial space, Alserkal Avenue cross-pollinates culture and business. You will come across some daring business concepts in this cultural district. It welcomes everyone to witness the carefully curated individual experiences it houses. 

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

It is hard to imagine that just within striking distance of modernization and the hustle and bustle of the city lies a serene and calm land – the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. 

This expansive reserve serves as the breeding habitat for numerous mammals, fish, and crustaceans. But, it is mostly famous for its gorgeous flamingos. Apart from the pink beauties, you will also find reef herons, grey herons, black-winged stilts, osprey, great egrets, and sandpipers, among other colourful bird species in this sanctuary. 

Protected, monitored, and maintained by Dubai Municipality, this sanctuary will evoke a sense of tranquillity within you the moment you set foot in it. 

Jameel Arts Centre

Jameel Arts Centre is a leading contemporary art institution in the Middle East that takes an open, dynamic, and collaborative approach to realising authentic programming across research, education, and exhibition. 

It nurtures artists and helps them produce work about the region while also encouraging audiences to actively engage with the ideas and artworks developed by the artists.

The role that this arts centre has played in creating a future-oriented and sustainable arts scene community in the country is unparalleled. Located at Jaddaf Waterfront, this arts centre also offers a broad range of volunteer opportunities, along with full-time and internship roles if you are interested in the field of arts.

The Viewing Point

The Viewing Point is a 70 m walkway free-to-enter structure with 26 m projecting over the water that offers panoramic views of Dubai Creek and Downtown Dubai. 

One of the most iconic places in the city, you can enjoy the daily bustles of boats doing their business from this point. Witnessing the sunrise and the nightlife after the sunset is going to give you core memories that you will cherish forever. 

It is located at the Dubai Creek Harbour and rises 11.65 ft above the water and gives an uninterrupted view of the stunning skyline of the emirate. You can even see Burj Khalifa and the Sheikh Zayed Road highway from the vantage point. Over the past few years, it has emerged as an architectural icon of Dubai. 

Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

Mohammed Bin Rashid Library is a lighthouse of knowledge, creativity, and culture and serves as the largest library in the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region. 

Aimed at preserving Arabic culture and heritage, this is the place you need to visit if reading and researching is your passion. Allowing you to visit without requiring any prior reservation, you will find the rarest books and manuscripts here. 

The way it preserves Islamic art pieces and artefacts is nothing short of inspiring. Located at Al Jaddaf, the library comprises ten collections - The General Library, Periodicals Library, Young Adult Library, Map and Atlas Library, Children's Library, Information Centre, Media and Arts Library, Emirates Library, Business Library, and a Special Collections Library. 

Dubai Water Canal

If you are looking for a relaxing and chilled day in Dubai, then head to the Dubai Water Canal and witness the city from a new perspective. 

This man-made channel is a 3.2 km long waterway extending from Dubai Creek in Old Dubai through Business Bay, before finding its way back to the Arabian Gulf. 

Championing the cause of Dubai as a waterfront destination, this place allows you to walk, run, or cycle along either side of the canal. If you fancy, you can even hop aboard the many Abras for a leisurely afternoon ride. Check out the beautiful pedestrian bridges to get a vantage point of the stunning skyline of the city.            

Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk

The Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk is a gorgeous walkway that hugs the coastline behind Atlantis, The Palm. Stretching for 11 km, the boardwalk is spread 6 m wide and is built over the rocks of the Palm’s breakwater. 

Offering stunning views, it is a great place to unwind, jog, run, or leisurely stroll. Many Emiratis socialise with their friends here while taking a bite from the many food trucks that sell delicious delicacies. 

You can also collect memories from the souvenir shops across the boardwalk that also make for beautiful gifts. Visiting this free-to-enjoy place is perfect for a laid-back day.

How to be Cool during Summer in Dubai? 

As beautiful and charming as Dubai is, getting accustomed to its heat, especially in the summer season, can be quite challenging if you aren’t properly equipped or are coming to visit it from a relatively cool place. Therefore, you need to do everything in your power to make sure your body remains cool while enjoying the city. 

Here are some of the key factors to consider to maintain the coolness of your body.

Hydration Equipment 

Staying hydrated thoroughly is the key to survival in Dubai during the summers. Make sure you are carrying a reusable water bottle with you all the time throughout your trip to Dubai. Hydration helps in lowering the body’s temperature and using a reusable bottle will also contribute to minimal plastic waste. Try and carry electrolytes and salts as well. 

Lightweight Clothing

Make sure you are carrying breathable and light clothing made of natural fabrics such as linen and cotton. The more loose-fitting clothing you will wear, the better it will be for air circulation. Try and cover up exposed body parts with long-sleeved tops and trousers or a light scarf since they will also protect you from the harsh rays of the sun.

Sun Protection Gear

Sunscreen is a must in the harsh sunny climate of Dubai. Make sure you are carrying a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) board-spectrum sunscreen that will protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. Carry hats, caps, umbrellas, and sunglasses each time you step outside. Use shaded areas wherever you can.

Safety Tips in Dubai during Summer

As we discussed above, staying cool in summer is crucial for you, especially if you are planning to explore the city and be outdoors. The safety tips in Dubai during summer essentially involve you seeking protection from the heat. Here are some of the aspects you need to forever keep in mind while exploring the city.

• Get adequate liquids in your system, be it water or water-adjacent beverages. Fresh fruit juices and soups are ideal. Avoid sugar-based and artificial colouring-based beverages.
• Use a minimum of SPF 30 broad-spectrum sunscreen on your face and exposed body parts.
• Carry an umbrella, hat, cap, and a pair of sunglasses each time you step outside.
• Wear breathable, loose-fitting, and light clothing made of cotton or linen.
• Seek shelter wherever you can and avoid being directly under sunlight for long periods.
• Get immediate help in case of nausea, dizziness, heat stroke, or heavy headache. Reach out to the helpline number 998 for ambulance requirements. 
• Carry electrolytes and salt with you all the time. 

To Conclude 

Dubai is a magical wonderland, and the summer season shouldn’t stop you from enjoying it. With plenty of places to explore in the city, including many of them being free of charge, you can have a dynamic itinerary. 

All you need to make sure of is to have a detailed and planned system of exploring the city so that you don’t waste time going back and forth to check out the landmarks. Have a methodical and linear approach to checking out the city’s best offerings. In addition, try and follow the safety tips we mentioned above as they will help in making sure you have a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable trip. 

FAQs   

Commonly Asked Questions about Summer in Dubai 

When is Summer in Dubai?

Summer usually lasts in Dubai from May to August.

How hot is Dubai during summer?

Dubai can get pretty hot during summer, with May to August witnessing a temperature of 41-50 degrees Celsius. 

What is Dubai’s highest temperature in summer?

Dubai’s highest temperature in Summer varies from year to year but can go near 50 degrees Celsius. 

Is it safe to be outdoors in the summer in Dubai?

Yes, it is safe to be outdoors in the summer in Dubai as long as you are wearing adequate sunscreen and have sun-protection gear such as umbrellas, hats, and sunglasses with you. Make sure you are hydrated enough and seek shaded areas as much as you can.

Is it worth going to Dubai in the summer?

Yes, going to Dubai in summer is worth it as you can enjoy amusement parks, water parks, serene gardens, and mesmerising beaches, among others. Summer witnesses fewer crowds in the city and there are low prices on flights and hotels. So, as long as you have a bit of tolerance for heat, you can have a lot of fun in Dubai in the summer. 

How long is summer vacation in Dubai?

Generally speaking, summer vacation for schools in Dubai lasts eight weeks from late June to late August. 

What are the places to visit in Dubai at night during summer? 

There are plenty of noteworthy places to visit in Dubai at night during summer, most notable among them being the Dubai Fountain, Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, and a walk by the Dubai Marina promenade.