November in Dubai hits different. Check out this travel guide to see why it’s the perfect time to visit!
As I was having a drink at a rooftop bar in Dubai last November, watching the sunset paint the Burj Khalifa in golden hues – it hit me. This is the perfect time to see the City of Gold!
While summer scorches, November brings comfortable temperatures that let you actually enjoy wandering through spice souks and desert safaris.
Plus, you’ll catch the start of the outdoor season, when the city comes alive with al fresco dining, beach clubs, and markets.
Trust me, there’s nothing quite like an Arabian autumn. So if you’re planning to visit Dubai in November, check out this travel guide!
Is November a Good Time to Visit Dubai?
November is a great time to visit Dubai because of the pleasant weather ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, plus there are many attractions and events in store.
The average temperature around this time would be about 27°C which is comfortably warm, making it perfect for exploring the city’s iconic landmarks. These include the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, and desert safaris, among others.
November also marks the start of Dubai’s event season, featuring highlights like the Dubai Design Week and the Dubai Fitness Challenge.
With somewhat fewer crowds than peak winter months, you can enjoy the city’s luxury shopping, world-class dining, and stunning beaches without the intense summer heat.
Getting Around
It’s easy to get around Dubai through public transport and you have several options. You can use the metro, bus, tram, as well as water transport through traditional abras or water taxis and ferries.
If you want to explore the city while getting some cardio in, bike rentals are also available through Trek Bikes, Byky, and bike-sharing app, Careem Bike.
While Dubai is still a car-centric city, many areas are pedestrian-friendly, especially Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Jumeirah Beach Walk. Wide sidewalks, pedestrian bridges, and dedicated paths make walking enjoyable.
The cooler November weather also makes strolling through attractions like City Walk and Al Seef more pleasant.
Top Things to Do in Dubai in November
Go On A Desert Safari Adventure
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A desert safari tour in Dubai is a must-do experience, especially in November when the weather is pleasantly cool. These tours offer thrilling activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel riding, letting you explore the breathtaking Arabian desert.
You’ll also get to discover the native wildlife that call the desert home, such as the Arabian oryx, camels, and falcons.
Many desert safari tours even offer a chance to experience falconry, a cherished Emirati tradition. You can watch expert falconers train these majestic birds, witness spectacular aerial dives, and even handle a falcon under supervision.
Some Dubai desert safari tour operators you can try are Platinum Heritage, Desert Safari Dubai, and Arabian Adventures.
Soak in Dubai’s Splendour on an Evening Dhow Cruise
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A dhow cruise in Dubai is a relaxing way to take in the city’s stunning skyline while enjoying a traditional Arabian experience. The best time for a cruise is in the evening when the weather is cooler and the city lights create a magical atmosphere.
As you cruise along Dubai Marina or Dubai Creek, you can enjoy live entertainment, a delectable dinner, and traditional music.
Some cruises even offer Tanoura dance performances. It’s a perfect way to unwind and soak in Dubai’s charm.
Discover a Floral Wonderland at Dubai Miracle Garden
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Visiting the Dubai Miracle Garden is like going down a rabbit hole and discovering a vibrant wonderland of floral displays in different shapes and sizes! You’ll get to see over 150 million flowers arranged in stunning designs.
From heart-shaped arches and life-sized castles to an Emirates A380 plane covered in blooms, every corner is a feast for the eyes!
Open seasonally from November to May, the cooler climate makes it the perfect time to explore. Stroll through themed gardens, snap Instagram-worthy photos, and bask in the vibrant blooms in this record-breaking floral paradise!
Tickets are priced at AED 100 for adults and AED 85 for kids aged 3 to 12 years old. You may book your tickets here.
Unwind on Dubai’s Stunning Beaches
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With November’s pleasant temperatures and sunny skies, it’s the perfect time to relax on Dubai’s beautiful beaches.
Popular spots like Sunset Beach, La Mer, Kite Beach, and The Beach, JBR offer soft sands, clear waters, and plenty of activities. You can sunbathe, swim, or try watersports like standup paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking.
There are lots of beachfront cafes and restaurants to delight in that provide stunning views, while sunset strolls along the shore offer a peaceful retreat.
Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Dubai’s beaches give you that perfect slice of paradise within the city.
Make a Splash at Aquaventure Water Park
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For thrill-seekers and water lovers, Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis, The Palm is a must-visit.
It’s the largest waterpark in the Middle East with record-breaking slides, lazy rivers, and the adrenaline-pumping Leap of Faith, a near-vertical drop through a shark-filled lagoon.
Families can enjoy kid-friendly splash zones, while adventure-seekers can try the adrenaline-pumping slides. There are also dolphin encounters and the Lost Chambers Aquarium where you can find over 65,000 marine life.
With private beaches, luxurious cabanas, and a variety of dining options, Aquaventure offers both excitement and relaxation.
Tickets start from AED 235. You can purchase your tickets here.
Shopping and Dining
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Dubai offers a world-class shopping and dining experience, blending luxury with cultural charm. You can shop at iconic malls like the Dubai Mall and Mall of Emirates, or explore traditional souks for gold, spices, and textiles.
Dining is equally diverse, from Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic Emirati eateries and global street food. You can indulge in waterfront dining at Dubai Marina or savor high-end cuisine at the Burj Khalifa.
Whether you seek haute couture or local delicacies, Dubai delivers an unforgettable experience.
Visit Dubai Museums and Galleries
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Apart from its impressive architecture and attractions, Dubai offers a wealth of cultural experiences through its diverse museums and galleries.
Al Shindagha Museum delves into Dubai’s rich heritage with exhibits on traditional life. Dubai Museum showcases the city’s transformation from a fishing village to a global hub.
The Saruq Al-Hadid Museum focuses on ancient Arabian archaeology, highlighting the region’s early civilizations. While the Etihad Museum commemorates the UAE’s founding with interactive exhibits on its history.
For coffee lovers, the Coffee Museum offers a deep dive into the history and culture of coffee in the Arab world.
The Museum of the Future presents cutting-edge technology and innovation, while the Jameel Arts Centre displays contemporary art from around the world.
Lastly, the Arte Museum Dubai brings global art to the forefront, showcasing innovative works from emerging artists.
Each museum offers a unique glimpse into the past, present, and future of the UAE.
Explore Dubai’s Iconic Landmarks
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Dubai is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks. You can start with the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building on Earth, where you can enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck.
You can also visit the Burj Al Arab, the iconic sail-shaped luxury hotel, and snap some Instagram-worthy photos. Of course, the engineering marvel, Palm Jumeirah, is also a must-see.
For a taste of Dubai’s heritage, step into the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, while the Dubai Frame offers views of old and new Dubai.
For shopping, dining, and entertainment, Dubai Mall has it all where you can also find attractions like the Dubai Aquarium and the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain Show.
Beyond its many modern marvels, Dubai has countless attractions to explore. November’s the perfect time to go sightseeing and experience the city’s vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and outdoor adventures.
November Events and Festivals in Dubai
November in Dubai is packed with exciting events and festivals, from cultural celebrations to world-class entertainment. Enjoy heritage festivals, concerts, sporting events, and more as the city comes alive this season.
Dubai Design Week
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If you’re interested in design across various disciplines, Dubai Design Week is a must-see event. It’s the region’s leading creative festival, celebrating innovation in architecture, interiors, fashion, and more.
Held annually in November at Dubai Design District (d3), it features exhibitions, installations, workshops, and talks by global and local designers.
The event fosters creativity, sustainability, and emerging talent across multiple disciplines.
Dubai Fitness Challenge
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For fitness enthusiasts, the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) is an exciting city-wide initiative encouraging everyone to commit to 30 minutes of exercise daily for 30 days.
Launched in 2017 by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, DFC transforms Dubai into a fitness hub every October – November. It offers free workout sessions, fitness villages, and sporting events.
From yoga and cycling to HIIT and water sports, DFC promotes a healthy lifestyle, making fitness accessible and fun for all ages and fitness levels.
Butterfly Carnival Music Festival
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The Butterfly Carnival Music Festival is Dubai’s inaugural carnival-inspired music event. The festival blends the vibrant energies of London’s Notting Hill Carnival, Trinidad and Tobago’s beats, and Brazil’s Rio Carnival.
Attendees can expect performances across multiple stages, featuring genres like Afrobeats, Dancehall, Amapiano, and more.
The event also offers an array of global cuisines, live shows, and cultural showcases, promising an exhilarating experience.
Al Marmoom Heritage Festival
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The Al Marmoom Heritage Festival is a prestigious annual event in Dubai, celebrating Emirati culture and traditions.
Held at the Al Marmoom Camel Race Track, this festival showcases thrilling camel races, where top-bred camels compete for prestigious prizes.
Visitors can experience traditional Bedouin music, crafts, and cuisine, immersing themselves in the UAE’s rich heritage. The festival attracts locals and international visitors, offering a glimpse into the historic significance of camel racing.
It’s a unique cultural experience that blends tradition with modern entertainment, highlighting Dubai’s deep-rooted Arabian heritage.
Travel Tips When Visiting Dubai in November
- November offers mild temperatures (around 20 – 30°C), making it perfect for outdoor activities.
- Pack light clothing, bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses during the day and have a jacket ready for cooler evenings.
- Dubai is quite busy in November as tourists prefer the milder weather, so it’s important to book flights, hotels, and attractions in advance to get the best deals.
- Dress modestly in public places, especially in traditional areas. Sleeveless tops and shorts are acceptable at beaches and pools but not in malls and restaurants.
- Be mindful of Dubai’s customs and traditions by avoiding public displays of affection. Also, women should wait for local men to initiate a handshake before extending their hand in greeting.
- Be sure to make the most out of Dubai’s pleasant weather and book outdoor activities such as desert safari tours and dhow cruises.
- Use the Dubai Metro, taxis, or ride-hailing apps for easy navigation. The metro is affordable and connects to key attractions.
- Explore Dubai Mall, Souks, and Global Village for diverse shopping and dining experiences. Book dining reservations early especially for popular restaurants.