Dubai in January: Festivals, Events & Travel Tips

Dubai in January: At a glance

Weather: Pleasant and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 14°C to 24°C with no rains. Perfect for outdoor activities!

Daylight: Around 11 hours of daylight, ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.

Top attractions: Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Mall, Old Dubai, Desert Safari

Key events: Dubai Shopping Festival, Dubai Marathon, Dubai Desert Classic

Tourist season: January is considered a peak tourist season, but the crowds are more manageable compared to December and February.

Packing essentials: Lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, swimwear, light jacket for evenings

Best activities to enjoy: Beach days, shopping, water sports, cultural experiences, adventures, culinary Delights

Dubai in winter: How January compares

	December	January	February
Weather	Between 24°C and 14°C.	Between 24°C and 14°C.	Between 14°C to 24°C
Crowds	This is the peak tourist season, with the highest number of visitors. Expect significant crowds, especially during the Dubai Shopping Festival.	The crowds start to thin out slightly compared to December, but it's still a busy time, particularly during the New Year celebrations.	Dubai is very busy in February, so expect crowds at popular attractions. It is peak tourist season before the summer starts.
Key events	UAE National Day, Dubai Shopping Festival, New Year's Eve Celebrations	Dubai Marathon, Dubai desert classic	Dubai International Boat Show, Dubai Jazz Festival, Sikka Art & Design Festival, Burj2Burj, Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships
Best for	Families with children, those who thrive in a lively atmosphere, people who want to enjoy the cool weather, shoppers, those who are looking for luxury/glamorous events	People who want pleasant weather but with fewer crowds	Sports enthusiasts, music lovers, friends groups and those who are looking to enjoy a pleasant weather.
Buy tickets for	Burj Khalifa NYE fireworks viewing spots, City tours, Burj Khalifa viewing deck	Burj lake tours, cruises, adventure activities	Rewind Fest DXB 2025, Rivermaya The Reunion live, Emirates Airline Festival of Literature
Outdoor activities	Dubai Shopping Festival, walks by the Marina, visit to the beach	Desert safari, flyboarding, cruises, and golfing	Desert activities, Water Sports, cruises, skydiving
Transportation	Use ride-hailing services or public transport (buses, metros) to avoid crowds and traffic, especially during peak times.	Crowds are decreasing, but popular attractions might still be busy. Use public transport (buses, metros) during peak hours to avoid traffic. Private vehicles are an option, but expect traffic congestion.	Crowds may be low but the popular attractions may still be busy. Use public transport during the peak time.
Shopping and sales	The Dubai Shopping Festival (15 Dec to 19 Jan) gives great discounts on almost everything, including gold and electronic items.	DSF runs till the 3rd week of Jan with great deals on gold and electronic goods.	Even though DSF would have been over, you might still find some lingering sales and promotions in early February.
Budget considerations	Consider booking hotels and activities in advance. This is peak time in Dubai and flights are more expensive so planning ahead for flights etc is important.	Prices start to decrease as the peak season ends. You may find good deals on last-minute bookings for hotels and activities.	Accommodation and flights may not be too expensive but it is recommended to book in advance.

January highlights: Must-do experiences for families, couples, and more

Families with kids

Must-experience: Hot air balloon rides, evening desert safari, theme parks

Better in January:

Beach Days: Relax on the pristine beaches of Jumeirah Beach Residence or Kite Beach.
Old Dubai: Explore the historic Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood and the bustling Gold Souk.
KidZania: A unique interactive city where kids can role-play different professions.
Dubai Miracle Garden: A stunning floral wonderland, perfect for a family stroll.

Solo travelers

Must-experience: Shopping, cultural sites and museums, outdoor events and concerts,

Better in January:

Desert Safari: Enjoy the cooler weather while experiencing the thrill of dune bashing, camel riding, and stargazing in the desert.
Old Dubai: Explore the historic Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood and the bustling Gold Souk, immersing yourself in the city's heritage.
Beach hopping: Relax on the pristine beaches of Jumeirah Beach Residence or Kite Beach, enjoying the pleasant weather.

Shoppers

Must-experience: Dubai Mall, Global Village, the Souks

Better in January:

Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF): Unbeatable discounts on branded goods, Raffle draws & giveaways, Pop-up markets, entertainment & fireworks
Traditional Souks: Shop for gold jewelry at the Gold Souk or aromatic spices and souvenirs at the Spice Souk.
Luxury Shopping: Indulge in designer brands and bespoke experiences at The Dubai Mall, home to iconic labels and exclusive collections.

Adventurers

Must-experience: Desert Safari, Skydiving, Ziplining, Water sports

Better in January:

Hiking in Hatta: Explore the rugged trails of the Hatta Mountains in the cooler climate, and enjoy kayaking on the Hatta Dam.
Flyboarding: Glide above the water and perform gravity-defying tricks, made more enjoyable with January’s cooler sun.
Dune Buggy Rides: Navigate the desert at high speeds in a powerful dune buggy, a thrilling alternative to traditional dune bashing.

Event or festival

Event/festival	What is the event/festival?	Where is it?	When is it?
Dubai Shopping Festival	The Dubai Shopping Festival is a month-long shopping extravaganza featuring massive discounts, sales, and entertainment events.	Shoppers and families seeking entertainment.	Dec 6 to Jan 12
Future Human 2025	Future Human 2025 is a 3-day journey to equip you with skills to thrive in a fast-paced world, led by renowned teachers and combining learning with fun.	Individuals looking to grow in their professions	Jan 10 - 12
Jay Chou - Carnival World Tour live	Jay Chou, the 'King of Mandopop', will perform iconic classics like 'Qi Li Xiang' and recent favorites, fusing R&B, rock, and traditional Chinese music.	Fans of Mandopop music, music lovers	Jan 4, 2024
Dubai Marathon	The Dubai Marathon, one of the region's biggest annual athletic meets, takes place on January 12, 2025. Run through iconic Dubai locations like Madinat Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab, choosing from a 42km, 10km, or 4km fun run.	Sports enthusiasts	Jan 12, 2024
Hero Dubai Desert Classic	The Dubai Desert Classic, a premier golf tournament since 1989, attracts global golfing stars to a celebration of world-class sport, food, and entertainment.	Golf lovers, sports enthusiasts	Jan 16 - 19
Steve Aoki live	Known for hits like 'Pursuit of Happiness' and collaborations with BTS and Kid Cudi, Aoki will bring his high-energy performances and iconic cake-throwing to Dubai.	EDM fans, nightlife enthusiasts, partygoers, fans of Steve Aoki	Jan 25, 2024
Quoz Arts Fest	The Quoz Arts Fest is an annual event in Dubai showcasing art, music, and culture through exhibitions, performances, workshops, and food.	Art enthusiasts, culture lovers, families, foodies	Jan 25 & 26
Green Day	Green Day, one of the world's best-selling bands, is set to perform in Dubai for the first time on 27 January at Expo City Dubai.	Green day fans, rock music enthusiasts, music lovers	Jan 27, 2024

Dubai in January: Your perfect 3-day itinerary

Morning:

Breakfast: Start your day in Old Dubai with an authentic Emirati breakfast at Arabian Tea House in the Al Fahidi Historical District. Try dishes like balaleet (sweet vermicelli with eggs) and regag bread.
Al Fahidi Neighborhood: Explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, a maze of wind-tower houses, museums, and art galleries. Visit the Coffee Museum or the Dubai Museum (housed in the Al Fahidi Fort) which will give you a glimpse into the rich Emirati history.

Afternoon:

Dubai Mall: Spend your afternoon shopping at the Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest malls. You will get great deals and discounts because of the Dubai Shopping Festival.
Dubai Aquarium: Explore the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, where you will a close-up view of over 33,000 marine animals, including sharks and rays.

Evening:

La Perle: Watch the spectacular La Perle by Dragone, an immersive acrobatics and theater show.
Dinner: Sail along the Dubai Canal or Creek on a dinner cruise where you will be treated to stunning city skyline views and delicious buffet options.

Morning:

Breakfast: Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at Parker’s in La Mer, known for its creative dishes and trendy vibe.
Theme park: Head to IMG Worlds of Adventure, Dubai’s largest indoor theme park, for thrilling rides and attractions based on Marvel, Cartoon Network, and dinosaurs.

Afternoon:

Global Village: Spend a leisurely afternoon at Global Village, an open-air attraction with pavilions representing over 70 countries. Shop for souvenirs, sample global cuisines, and enjoy cultural performances.

Evening:

Desert Safari: Set out on an evening desert safari, featuring dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and a traditional dinner under the stars and enjoy live cultural performances, such as tanoura and belly dancing.

Morning:

Breakfast: Start your day with a gourmet breakfast at The Hamptons Café in Jumeirah, offering a relaxing seaside vibe.
Skydiving: Go for a skydive over Palm Jumeirah or the desert with Skydive Dubai, which is an unforgettable experience with breathtaking views.

Afternoon:

Shopping at the souks: Relax and explore Dubai’s traditional souks like the Gold Souk (intricate jewelry), Spice Souk (aromatic spices), and Textile Souk (beautiful fabrics)
Lunch: Enjoy a break at XVA Café, a hidden gem in Al Fahidi, serving delicious Middle Eastern-inspired dishes in an art-filled courtyard.

Evening:

Burj Khalifa: Visit the Burj Khalifa for sunset views from the observation deck on the 148th floor. You can also head downstairs for the stunning Dubai Fountain Show, a synchronized display of water, light, and music at the base of the Burj Khalifa.
Dinner: End the evening with dinner at At.mosphere, the luxurious restaurant located on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa.

Pro tips for exploring Dubai in January

Book tickets in advance: Popular attractions like the Burj Khalifa, Desert Safari, and La Perle show tend to sell out quickly in January. Reserve your spots ahead of time, especially for peak hours like sunset views or evening performances.
Pack warm layers: Bring light layers for the day and a jacket or shawl for cooler evenings, as temperatures can dip to 14°C (57°F) at night.
Plan your trip around the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF): Visit malls and souks during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds, and take advantage of DSF flash sales and events for the best deals.
Visit attractions: Beat the crowds by visiting iconic spots like the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, or souks earlier in the day. The city tends to get busier in the afternoons and evenings.
Make use of public transport: Use Dubai Metro for affordable and efficient travel to key areas like Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Deira.
Choose outdoor activities wisely: January is perfect for outdoor adventures like desert safaris, hot air balloon rides, or beach days, thanks to the pleasant weather.
Catch the sunset: Plan to visit spots like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Creek, or a desert camp during sunset for magical views and photo opportunities.
Explore cultural gems: Cooler weather makes walking tours in areas like Al Fahidi Historical District, Jumeirah Mosque, and souks more enjoyable.
Stay prepared: While the weather is generally mild, occasional fog or light rain can occur. Have a backup plan with indoor attractions like Dubai Aquarium, IMG Worlds of Adventure, or The Green Planet.

Frequently asked questions about Dubai in January

Is January a good time to visit Dubai?

Absolutely! January is one of the best months to visit Dubai, with pleasant weather perfect for outdoor activities and festivals. Expect sunny days with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for exploring the city's many attractions.

What are the must-visit attractions in Dubai in January?

January is perfect for iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah. Don’t miss the Dubai Shopping Festival for amazing deals or desert safaris for a magical experience under cooler skies.

Are there any special events or festivals in January?

Yes, January hosts the famous Dubai Shopping Festival, featuring incredible sales, fireworks, live entertainment, and raffles. It’s a shopper’s paradise with plenty of family-friendly activities.

How should I dress when visiting Dubai in January?

Dress in light layers. Mornings and evenings can be cool, so carry a light jacket or shawl. While Dubai is cosmopolitan, modest clothing is recommended when visiting religious sites or old parts of the city.

Can I enjoy the beaches in January?

Definitely! With temperatures hovering in the mid-20s Celsius, January is great for beach outings. JBR Beach and Kite Beach are popular spots, with plenty of activities to enjoy.

What activities are best in Dubai during this season?

Outdoor activities like desert safaris, dhow cruises, and rooftop dining are at their best. You can also explore the Dubai Miracle Garden, which is in full bloom during this time.

Is it necessary to book tickets for attractions in advance?

Yes, especially for popular experiences like the Burj Khalifa’s observation deck or Dubai Frame. January sees higher tourist traffic, so booking online in advance can save time and secure your spot.

What are the dining options in January?

Dubai’s al fresco dining scene is vibrant in January. Rooftop restaurants and beachside cafes are highly recommended. For a luxurious experience, consider dining at Atlantis The Palm or Pier 7.

How do I get around Dubai in January?

Dubai's public transport, including the metro, buses, and taxis, are efficient and well-connected. For added convenience, ridesharing apps like Uber and Careem are widely available.

What is the best time to visit outdoor attractions?

Early mornings or late afternoons are perfect to avoid midday heat. Sunset hours are magical for desert safaris or visiting Dubai Marina.

Can I go on a desert safari in January?

Absolutely! The cooler temperatures make January one of the best times for desert safaris. Choose evening safaris for stunning sunset views and cultural experiences like camel rides and Arabian feasts.

What are the opening hours for attractions in January?

Most attractions open around 10 AM and close between 8 PM to 10 PM. However, some sites like the Dubai Fountain or night safaris operate later.

Is Dubai crowded in January?

Yes, January is a busy month due to favorable weather and the Dubai Shopping Festival. Plan your itinerary and book tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

What should I pack for a trip to Dubai in January?

Pack light clothing, a jacket for evenings, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and swimwear. A scarf or shawl is handy for visiting religious sites.

Are there family-friendly activities in Dubai in January?

Yes, from Legoland and KidZania to beach outings and Dubai Aquarium, there are plenty of family-friendly activities. The shopping festival also has fun events for kids.

Can I enjoy water parks in January?

Yes, water parks like Aquaventure and Wild Wadi remain open in January. The water is temperature-controlled, ensuring a fun and comfortable experience.

What’s the best way to explore Old Dubai in January?

Take an abra ride along Dubai Creek, explore the Gold and Spice Souks, and visit the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for avoiding crowds.

Are there day trips from Dubai that are ideal in January?

Consider day trips to Abu Dhabi to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or to Hatta for hiking and kayaking. The cool weather makes these excursions very enjoyable.

Is it possible to go skydiving in Dubai in January?

Yes, skydiving is a popular activity year-round in Dubai. January’s clear skies and cooler temperatures make it a fantastic time for this adrenaline-pumping experience.

Are boat tours operational in January?

Yes, dhow cruises and speedboat tours operate throughout January. Enjoying a dinner cruise on Dubai Creek or Marina is a great way to see the city.