Dubai in May: Weather, Crowds & What to Do
When people plan a trip to Dubai, one of the first questions is always about timing. I’ve visited Dubai in different months throughout the year, and May was actually the month of my very first trip.
Would I recommend visiting Dubai in May? If you enjoy hot weather, fewer crowds, and better prices, then yes, May can be a great time to go.
It’s a month where you can still enjoy beaches, sightseeing, and outdoor activities, while also having plenty of indoor options if the heat feels like too much.
Short on time? Here are some recommended hotels in Dubai:
➡️Address Beach Resort on JBR Beach with the world’s highest infinity pool
➡️Raffles Dubai is located in Bur Dubai, near the Dubai Frame and Creek
➡️Vida Dubai Mall near Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall
Is May a Good Time to Visit Dubai?
Yes, May can be a perfect time to visit Dubai. The busy peak season is coming to an end, which means fewer people at major attractions and better hotel deals.
You’ll notice that popular places feel less crowded compared to the winter months, and many hotels start lowering prices. If you don’t mind warmer temperatures, May offers a nice balance between good weather and better value.
Dubai in May: Weather
Dubai has a desert climate, so warm temperatures are expected throughout the year.
In May, the weather is hot and sunny, but not yet at the extreme summer levels. The beginning of the month is more comfortable, while temperatures rise toward the end.
- Daytime temperatures: around 35–40°C (95–104°F)
- Night temperatures: around 23–26°C (73–80°F)
The sea temperature is around 29°C (84°F), which feels more like a warm bath. If you prefer swimming in warm water rather than cooler winter seas, May is ideal.
Top Things to Do in Dubai in May
Dubai offers plenty of activities year-round. In May, daytime is perfect for beaches, pools, and water parks, while sightseeing and walks are best done in the early morning or evening.
If the heat feels too strong, indoor attractions are a great alternative as everything is air-conditioned. Below are some of the best things to do in Dubai in May.
Outdoor Activities
Cool down in pools or water parks
If you want something more active, Dubai’s water parks are a great option.
The most popular ones are Aquaventure and Wild Wadi. Aquaventure, located at Atlantis The Palm, is one of the world’s largest water parks and holds the record for having the most water slides in the world. It also includes a private beach and dolphin encounters.
Most hotels and residential buildings also have pools, so you’ll have plenty of chances to cool off.
Relax on the beach
Make the most of the sunshine and spend time by the sea. Dubai has many public beaches, including JBR Beach, Jumeirah Beach, Umm Suqeim Beach, Kite Beach, and La Mer.
The sea is warm and calm, making it great for swimming. You can also try watersports like paddleboarding, jet skiing, or kitesurfing.
Take a city tour
When I first visited Dubai, a city tour helped me understand how the city is laid out and decide which places I wanted to return to on my own.
I took a Big Bus tour on my first visit, which also happened to be in May. It’s an easy way to see the main areas, learn about the city, and hop off at places you want to explore more.
Explore the old part of Dubai
To see a different side of the city, visit Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.
You can walk through traditional streets, visit small museums and galleries, and stop for coffee or lunch. It’s best to go early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler.
From here, take a traditional abra across Dubai Creek to explore the souks in Deira. You can explore this area on your own, as part of a Big Bus route, or on a guided tour.
Go on a desert safari
A desert safari is one of the must-do experiences in Dubai, and May is still a good month for it, especially in the evening.
You can choose between morning, evening, or overnight safaris. Evening tours usually include dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, a buffet dinner, and live entertainment.
I’ve done desert safaris several times, always in the evening, and it’s still one of my favourite experiences in Dubai.
Take a yacht or dhow cruise
A cruise is a relaxing way to spend an evening in Dubai.
You can choose a traditional dhow cruise with dinner and entertainment or go for a modern yacht cruise. Both offer great views of the city from the water, especially around Dubai Marina and Dubai Creek.
Watch the Dubai Fountain show
The Dubai Fountain is one of Dubai’s most famous attractions.
The show runs daily from 6 pm to around 11 pm and takes place every 30 minutes. May evenings are warm and comfortable, so watching the show outside feels easy and relaxed.
You can watch it for free from the promenade or book a table at one of the nearby restaurants for a fountain view.
Visit Ain Dubai
Ain Dubai is the world’s tallest observation wheel and one of Dubai’s most impressive landmarks.
Located on Bluewaters Island next to JBR, it’s a great place for an evening visit, especially if you’re already spending time along the beach or promenade.
It offers panoramic views over the city, the coastline, and the Arabian Gulf.
➡️Book your ticket for Ain Dubai with fast queue and F&B here
Go for an evening walk
Evening walks in May are one of the best simple pleasures in Dubai.
JBR Walk is lively and relaxed, with shops, restaurants, and beach views. It’s also a great place to take photos with Ain Dubai in the background.
Dubai Marina is another favourite, with a long waterfront path, city lights, and plenty of places to stop for dinner or drinks.
Visit Abu Dhabi
If you have time, consider a day trip to Abu Dhabi.
You can visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Emirates Palace, or attractions like Ferrari World and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. You can go on a guided tour or travel independently by bus, car, or taxi.
Indoor Activities
Go to the top of Burj Khalifa
Visiting the Burj Khalifa observation decks is one of the most popular things to do in Dubai.
You can go during the day, at sunset, or at night. Sunset is the busiest time, so I recommend booking in advance.
➡️Book your Burj Khalifa At the Top 124+125 floor HERE
➡️Book your At the Top Burj Khalifa Sky 148+124+125 floor HERE
➡️Book The Lounge Burj Khalifa 154+153+152 floor HERE
Visit an aquarium
Dubai has several impressive aquariums.
The Dubai Mall Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is easy to combine with a visit to the Burj Khalifa, as both attractions are located inside the Dubai Mall. It works well if you want to plan multiple activities in one place.
The Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis The Palm offers a more themed experience.
Watch the La Perle by Dragone show
La Perle is Dubai’s permanent live show and one of the best indoor evening activities. The show takes place in a purpose-built theatre designed especially for La Perle, with water playing a major role in the performance.
The stage transforms throughout the show, combining acrobatics, water effects, music, and lighting. It’s a great option if you want something unique.
Visit the Museum of the Future
The Museum of the Future is one of Dubai’s most popular indoor attractions.
It focuses on technology, innovation, and what the future could look like. Tickets often sell out in advance, so it’s best to book early.
Explore shopping malls
Dubai’s malls are attractions in their own right.
Beyond shopping, you’ll find cinemas, ice rinks, indoor ski slopes, kids’ play areas, and countless dining options. It’s also a good way to escape the heat during the day.
What to Pack for Dubai in May
- T-shirts
- Shorts
- Skirts
- Dresses
- Smart trousers and shirts (for men)
- Lightweight long trousers
- Sandals or flip-flops
- Smart shoes (for Opera or upscale restaurants)
- Thin sweater (for strong air conditioning)
- Scarf for women (for mosque visits or desert activities)
- Swimwear
- Pyjamas
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen and after-sun
- Personal cosmetics
- Beach towel
- Hat for sun protection
- Handbag or day bag
- Camera or phone
- Charger
- Plug adapter (UK-type sockets are used in Dubai)
- Cash and cards
- Personal medication
- Small toys for travelling with children
Dubai in May: FAQs
How should I dress in Dubai in May?
Light, loose clothing made from cotton or linen works best. Shorts, skirts, dresses, and sleeveless tops are fine in most places.
Covering up is only required when visiting mosques.
Is Dubai too hot in May?
Yes, it’s hot, but not as intense as summer. If you’re sensitive to heat, plan outdoor activities for mornings and evenings and use indoor attractions during the day.
Is Dubai cold at night in May?
No. Evenings are warm and comfortable, perfect for walks, outdoor dining, and sightseeing.
Is May a good time to visit Dubai?
Yes, especially if you prefer fewer crowds and better hotel prices. May is a transition month, so you still get plenty of outdoor options along with excellent indoor activities.
Is Dubai crowded in May?
Crowds are noticeably lower compared to the winter peak season. Popular attractions are still busy at times, but overall, it feels less hectic than December to March.
If you’re planning your Dubai trip, these articles might help:
