All year round there are tourists visiting Abu Dhabi.  When to go depends on weather conditions which make winter a more pleasant time to visit the country for outdoor activities. If you are planning to visit Abu Dhabi for shopping, it is best to go during the sale season. Festivals and special events offer incentives to visit at specific times of the year.

Climate

Abu Dhabi's climate is hot and arid with sunny skies throughout the year. June until September is hot and humid with temperatures that exceed 35C and temperatures can reach 50C. The temperature drops slightly at night. Hotel rooms and shopping malls have air conditioning, but it is unpleasant to walk outside during this time because of the heat. Sandstorms occur during this period. Sandstorms may hinder traveling and limit visibility. From November until March Abu Dhabi experiences cooler temperatures with the occasional foggy day. Temperatures range from a minimum of 9C to 25C. It is better to visit Abu Dhabi between November and March, because of the cooler weather. Site seeing is pleasant in these cooler conditions and tourists can enjoy walking around the city to explore the different areas. Outdoor activities that can be enjoyed during the cooler winter months include dune bashing and safaris in the desert. The surrounding areas have some of the largest sand dunes. It is necessary to pack some jackets and sweaters to keep warm in winter. From November until April tourists can enjoy the site of colorful flowers in the city.

Shopping

Shopping can be enjoyed at any time during the year and shopping offers an air conditioned respite from the heat during summer. Sales start near December 26th. The Dubai Shopping Festival is held from 15th January and continues for a month. It is possible to get great bargains during this time. At the end of the sale period it may be more difficult to find clothes that you are looking for but the advantage is that prices are reduced even further.

Beaches

The beautiful beaches can be visited year round, but it is advisable to keep out of the midday heat during summer. The ideal time to visit the beaches is in October, March and April, as extremes in temperature are not experienced during these months.

Cultural Activities

Cultural activities can be enjoyed at any time during the year as they occur in indoor areas with air conditioning.