This Foolproof Travel Guide Made Us Survive Dubai in May
My cousins, who grew up in colder countries all their lives, stepped out of the airport for the first time to experience Dubai in the summer. My mom tasked me to give them a proper tour. But at that moment, my cousins thought they’d regret it.
By midday, their sunglasses fogged up so fast they swore they’d been “teleported” into a steam room. However, I promised them I had the perfect summer itinerary planned, and that the scorching heat would be worth it.
This is why I made a comprehensive travel guide for Dubai in May. Check out the best attractions and activities my cousins and I actually loved!
What can you do in Dubai this May?
There are many things you can do in Dubai this May! You can shop at airconditioned malls, ride a traditional boat, swim to your heart’s content, and experience a desert safari.
Best Time to Go
The best time to go to and explore Dubai in May is during the early mornings and evenings when the temperatures are better for outdoor activities.
How to Get Around
- Trains: Trains are very comfy transport options in Dubai. They’re fast, economical, and cool with ACs! The Red and Green lines typically cover the major areas. You can also get anywhere pretty late—they go from early morning to midnight.
- Buses: You can also go for buses if the trains can’t quite reach where you want to go. Note that buses can be slower, depending on the traffic. These are also airconditioned, so you’ll be free from sweat.
- Taxis: To go to your desired destination directly, you can grab a taxi, instead. We think it’s relatively easy to hail one on the street or book one via Hala, Careem, or Uber.
- Car: If you prefer to drive, just note the occasional heavy traffic. There are free and paid parking around most establishments too. But if you’re a tourist, you’ll need an international driving permit.
What to Do in Dubai in May
Explore Dubai Mall
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Website: https://thedubaimall.com/
Address: Downtown Dubai
Contact Details: +971 800 382246255, [email protected]
There are many things to enjoy in Dubai Mall besides exploring over 1,200 stores. It’s a haven for all things entertainment so you can stay breezy in Dubai in May. For starters, how about going to the VR Park or Dubai Ice Rink?
But our favorite is the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo! We bet many would be curious about the cool sharks and other exotic fish! If you dare, why not try shark diving or cage snorkeling?
On top of that, the underwater tunnel provides an amazing view of the huge tank (not 360 degrees, but close!). We bet you’d still feel like you’re having a nice stroll through the ocean.
Visit the Burj Khalifa
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Website: http://www.burjkhalifa.ae/
Address: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai
Contact Details: +971 4 888 8888
Being among the most iconic skyscrapers in the world, Burj Khalifa is the building everyone should see at least once in Dubai. It’s 828 meters high, and we reckon the clear May weather would make it shine brighter.
There are also several observation decks on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors. You can choose among them to see lovely 360-degree views of the city, as well as the desert and ocean.
But if you want the best time, we say go for the sunset slot—it’s highly popular for a reason! You can also dine at At.mosphere, the world’s highest restaurant for a fancy view paired with fantastic dishes.
Take a Dhow Cruise at Dubai Marina
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Website: https://arabiantourguide.com/dhow-cruise-dubai-marina
Address: The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai Marina
Contact Details: +971 50 313 2471, +971 50 994 5316, [email protected]
Looking for a romantic date idea? Consider a dhow (traditional wooden boat) cruise through some of the city’s most scenic locations like Dubai Marina or Dubai Creek!
We bet you’ll love being in a boat turned into a floating dining spot—you can try a luxurious buffet meal with international and Arabic dishes. The way we see it, it’s a delightful way to indulge while gliding past the city’s vibrant skyline.
Moreover, you’ll see fancy yachts, tall buildings, and even the Ain Dubai observation wheel. The last one can give you a memorable experience of Dubai’s heritage areas and old trading routes. You can watch dance and music performances too!
Swim at AURA SKYPOOL
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Website: https://auraskypool.com/
Address: Entry from St. Regus Hotel – The Palm Tower – 50th Floor – The Palm Jumeirah
Contact Details: +971 4 566 2121, [email protected]
Since May is among Dubai’s summer months, we reckon you’ll want to cool off now and then. One of our favorite ways is taking a cool dip at AURA SKYPOOL’s infinity pool. It’s on the 50th floor of The Palm Tower too! Perfect if you want stunning views.
You can also get a day pass if you’re not staying as a guest. This way, you can spend the day with 360-degree views, changing backdrops as you swim from Burj Khalifa to the Arabian Gulf and back.
And when you get thirsty from a long swim, we love that there are many cocktails, like Pink Beach and Green Samurai, to choose from. Other than that, we love that there are Asian light bites catered to most dietary requirements and preferences.
Go on a Desert Safari
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Website: http://www.desertsafaritours.com/
Address: Al Ameed Plaza – Room 409 A – 4th Floor – Al Firoshi Building – Salahuddin Road
Contact Details: +971 54 475 7544, [email protected]
Should you want the complete Dubai desert experience in one day, we believe a safari tour is the best option. Our top pick is the evening safari package, so you can be out of the sun while basking in the beautiful scenery and endless activities.
You can go for camel riding, a 4×4 dune bashing ride, and sandboarding. And if you have energy left, there’s henna painting and shisha (flavored tobacco) smoking. We love that you can dress up in authentic Arabian attire too!
At the end of the day, you’ll be treated to a swanky BBQ dinner while you watch belly dancing, fire shows, and Tanoura dance. For us, it would be a long and memorable day!
Where to Eat in Dubai in May
Pierchic
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Website: https://www.jumeirah.com/en/stay/dubai/jumeirah-al-qasr/dining/al-qasr-pierchic
Address: Jumeirah Al Qasr – Madinat Jumeriah
Contact Details: +971 800 323232
Pricing: $$$
Are you all about fresh seafood in the middle of May in Dubai? Pierchic offers Mediterranean fine dining for a picturesque overwater experience with Burj Al Arab and Arabian Gulf views. A romantic sight, we say.
We recommend going for the lobster risotto or the grilled octopus. But if you can’t choose, we believe you can’t go wrong with the signature seafood platter—a bit of everything! Plus, we reckon the citrus tart dessert would balance it out later.
Just be sure to book in advance and take an outdoor deck table, especially for dates, birthdays, or anniversaries.
99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant
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Website: https://www.99sushibar.com/en/
Address: Address Downtown – Downtown Dubai
Contact Details: +971 4 547 2241
Pricing: $$$
But if you’re into high-end Japanese food, 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant could be for you. For us, its sophisticated interiors match the Burj Khalifa vistas it offers. This spot is known for its Wagyu dishes, as well as its premium sushi and sashimi.
Still, we suggest trying out the spicy tuna tartare (raw) and Kobe beef with truffle sauce first. And to end on a sweet note, we bet the white chocolate mousse is among the most balanced desserts here!
Arabian Tea House (formerly Basta Art Café)
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Website: http://www.arabianteahouse.com/
Address: Bastakiya Opposite Musalla Post Office – Al Fahidi St – Bur Dubai – Al Fahidi
Contact Details: +971 4 353 5071, [email protected]
Pricing: $
Looking for a more affordable dining spot? Arabian Tea House provides a traditional and cultural feast for all. Set in the Al Fahidi Historical District, this spot is popular for its pleasant outdoor courtyard with shaded white and turquoise seating.
We say don’t skip the majboos (spiced rice with meat) and chebab (Emirati pancakes). Those with a sweet tooth might also like the date cake, in our opinion. And if you want a bit of a kick, we like the saffron-infused karak (strong) tea.
Do keep in mind that it’s a cash-only restaurant, so you better have those dirham bills and coins ready before dining in.
Ossiano
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Website: https://www.atlantis.com/dubai/dining/ossiano
Address: Atlantis – The Palm – Crescent Rd – The Palm Jumeirah
Contact Details: +971 4 426 0770, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Ossiana at Atlantis The Palm can give you a majestic underwater dining experience with its floor-to-ceiling aquarium. We think this takes the cake for having the most alive yet enchanting backdrop! Really takes you out of the scorching heat, we say.
We recommend fancy options, such as caviar, Wagyu beef, and lobster from the tasting menu. In our opinion, the selection is well-curated so you don’t have to worry about getting full right away. For us, you’ll likely have enough room for dessert.
Where to Shop in Dubai in May
Dubai Gold Souk
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Address: Deira – Al Ras
We think gold jewelry shines brighter in Dubai’s sun. So if you’re a gold lover, we reckon the Dubai Gold Souk (market) is a must on your travel list. It’s filled with numerous jewelry stores, whether you prefer, 18K, 22K, or 24K gold.
In our opinion, this is among the best places to do early gift shopping too! Besides the gold, this area offers plenty of diamonds, precious stones, and personalized jewelry.
And don’t forget—haggling is common here, so brush up on your negotiation skills to get the best deals! But if you want to be more thorough, note that gold prices change frequently, so we recommend checking the market rates beforehand.
Ibn Battuta Mall
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Website: https://www.ibnbattutamall.com/en
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Jebel Ali Village
Contact Details: +971 800 6254335, +971 800 738245, [email protected]
Some might not like going outside when it’s way too sunny. But if you’re travelling to Ibn Battuta Mall, we think you’ll be exploring all around the world! This mall showcases 6 themed sections: India, China, Egypt, Persia, Tunisia, and Andalusia.
We also appreciate that this mall is less crowded than other popular shopping destinations like Dubai Mall. But of course, we think this spot still provides wonderful retail therapy for affordable fashion, electronics, home decor, and more.
And if you want to capture some of the coolest photos, we recommend taking your time in Persia Court. For us, its blue-tiled dome is the coolest backdrop!
City Walk
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Website: https://www.citywalk.ae/en
Address: Al Safa St – Al Wasl
Contact Details: +971 4 590 5090, [email protected]
City Walk could be your shopping haven if you have a thing for all things European. There are many boutique stores, chic coffee shops, cinemas, kiddie areas, and more around here, so we bet you won’t easily get bored.
We reckon those who love casual strolls are in for a treat with the European-style pedestrianized boulevards. We particularly like exploring this at night, when the weather is much cooler and comfier.
But what we love the most place here is The Green Planet. It’s an indoor rainforest where you can see, learn, and interact with the animals! At times, you can even camp out here to see what the rainforest life is all about—in the safest way possible.
Perfume Souk
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Address: 7 Street 7B – Deira – Al Sabkha
Just because it’s hotter outside, doesn’t mean you can’t smell good, in our opinion. Perfume Souk is popular for getting local and lavish scents. No worries, though—you can always opt for the milder ones first.
We think you should brace your nose for a lot of sniffing around—there are hundreds of shops here! You can get everything from pure oud (agarwood tree resin) oils and bakhoor (mixed wood chips) to personalized fragrances and global brands.
And if you want something long-lasting, we think the Swiss Arabian scents are among the most potent. The way we see (or smell) it, these could be among the most irresistible gifts you can give!
Where to Stay in Dubai in May
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
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Website: https://www.jumeirah.com/en/stay/dubai/burj-al-arab-jumeirah
Address: Umm Suqeim 3
Contact Details: +971 4 301 7777
Pricing: $$$
If you want to maximize the summer season during May, Burj Al Arab is a 5-star hotel to consider first. We also think it’s handy that a 5-minute walk from Wild Wadi Water Park and 4 km from the Mall of the Emirates—more breezy options!
Its lavish suites showcase floor-to-ceiling windows with city or gulf views. And going all in with the VIP treatment, all rooms have Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, iPods, and 24K gold iPads! We also love the Egyptian lines, designer toiletries, and whirlpool baths.
Moreover, we find it convenient that water park passes are provided for free! Alternatively, there are 4 pools and a private beach here. And when you get hungry, you can select from 9 restaurants and bars so you won’t have to go anywhere else.
One&Only The Palm
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Website: https://www.oneandonlyresorts.com/the-palm
Address: West Crescent, Palm – Jumeirah
Contact Details: +971 4 440 1010, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Spending May in Dubai with someone special? One&Only The Palm Dubai could be your next secluded romantic getaway! It’s a 5-star boutique-style resort with private villas. We reckon this is great for honeymooners or couples wanting exclusivity.
The upmarket rooms and suites also provide the usual amenities with entertainment systems, living areas, and big bathrooms with free-standing tubs. We’re in awe that all of them either have garden verandas or Gulf views too.
Later, you can revel in fine dining as well. There’s a posh overwater lounge with Dubai views and 2 Yannick Alléno (3-Michelin star chef) restaurants. And how about a private beach stroll after? Otherwise, you can play tennis the next day to burn extra calories.
Premier Inn Dubai Al Jaddaf Hotel
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Website: https://mena.premierinn.com/en/hotel/premier-inn-dubai-al-jaddaf
Address: Al Jaddaf
Contact Details: +971 4 521 9268, +971 600 500503, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
If you’re on a budget and don’t mind being outside Downtown, 3-star Premier Inn Dubai Al Jaddaf works too. We appreciate that it’s only a 7-minute walk from Al Jadaf metro station (great for commuters!) and 5 km from WAFI Mall.
This accommodation offers all the usual amenities, as well as sitting areas with sofabeds, minifridges, and coffeemakers. We believe it’s suitable for families of 4 too!
There’s also a modern dining spot, coffee shop, and rooftop pool where you can chill. Plus, we like the free shuttle that will escort you to major attractions nearby.
Tips When Visiting Dubai in May
Now that you’re familiar with Dubai’s best attractions during May, here are tips and tricks to make your sunny trip more hassle-free:
Brace yourself for the heat!
It’s best to plan for early morning or evening activities and bring all sunny day essentials. This includes sunscreen, SPF lip balm, an umbrella, sunglasses, water bottles, and more to keep you comfy.
Choose hotels with a beach or pool.
Since the outdoors would be hot and tough, we think it’s handy to stay where you can easily cool yourself throughout the day.
Make restaurant reservations in advance.
We can’t rely on walk-ins! Otherwise, you might be forced to sit outside without an AC and melt in the heat before you can go to your next destination.
Check for off-season discounts.
Many hotels or accommodations provide summer deals—we say do some research before booking anything. This includes activities, festivals, or events too!