Dubai summer start date revealed: Best things to do to stay cool
While the glasses have been steaming up and the walk to the Dubai Metro has been getting sweatier as heat and humidity levels have soared, summer in Dubai doesn't officially get underway until near the end of June.
According to astronomical calculations, the Dubai summer officially begins on Saturday June 21 this year.
The summer start date is marked by the summer solstice, which is also the day with the longest period of daylight and the shortest night of the year in the hemisphere.
In the summer solstice, the Northern Hemisphere experiences its maximum tilt towards the sun, resulting in the sun appearing at its highest point in the sky at noon. This phenomenon leads to the longest period of daylight and the shortest night of the year.
During the Dubai summer, temperatures can often be in excess of 40°C – and in some parts of the UAE, it was as high as 50°C last year.
Current astronomical predictions state that summer in Dubai will last until Monday September 22 – which marks the Autumnal equinox.
While some will look to take advantage of Emirates' latest flights and the flydubai summer schedule for a quick getaway, the vast majority of people in Dubai will still be around during the season.
And that's why we've picked out some of the best things you can do in Dubai which will also keep you cool.
Beat the heat with these Dubai summer activities
For a full list of indoor Dubai summer activities – ranging from indoor attractions and water parks to cinemas and museums – head here. Below, are some of are favourites.
Hit the slopes at Ski Dubai
(Credit: Supplied)
Getting too hot out and about? Cool off at Ski Dubai. Whether you're meeting the penguins, zorbing along the snow or zipping down the slopes, it's a top way to keep active and have some fun in an icy environment.
Sound a bit strenuous? You can ditch the slopes a little early and enjoy the hot chocolate included in your ticket price instead.
Prices vary. Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri 10am-midnight, Sat-Sun 9am-midnight. Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, skidxb.com (04 409 4000).
Cool off at Atlantis Aquaventure
(Credit: Atlantis Aquaventure)
Found at Atlantis The Palm, thrill-seekers can make the most of a line-up of world-class slides and cool off with a float around the lazy river.
Something for the little ones, the park also has a dedicated kids' zone featuring a giant pirate ship that is kitted out with water guns and giant buckets. Just remember to pick up some pool socks so your feet don't get too hot.
From Dhs360. Open daily 9.15am-6pm. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah. atlantisaquaventure.com (04 426 0000).
Watch a summer blockbuster at Roxy Xtreme
If you're feeling the heat it's time to cool off in front of the silver screen.
Boasting the largest cinema screen in the Middle East, the Roxy Xtreme screen is a whopping 28m high by 15.1m wide, which is the size of two tennis courts. When watching a film here, you can even sit in the Director's Boxes, which host 12 people and come with food.
Prices vary. Roxy Cinemas, Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Hills, theroxycinemas.com (800 7699).
Underwater yoga at The Lost Chambers
(Credit: The Lost Chambers Aquarium)
This is as close to doing yoga under the sea as it gets. At this early-morning session (well, 8am) at the popular aquarium on the Palm, not only will you be put through your paces at a yoga class, but you'll also do so surrounded by the stunning tanks at the Lost Chambers aquarium.
You'll come out feeling relaxed and stretched, and you'll also get a chance to spot sharks, stingrays and jellyfish while you strike a pose.
Dhs175. Mon, Wed, Sat, Sun, 8am-9am. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, atlantis.com (04 426 1000).
Time Out Market
(Credit: ITP Images)
If you're other half just can't decide what they want to eat, take them here. The market is packed with some of the city's best food vendors guaranteed to satisfy any craving. In the mood for a filling treat? Grab the garlic knots from Pitfire Pizza. Want something a little more local? Be sure to try the spread from Liban.
Mon-Thu noon-midnight, Fri noon-1am, Sat 10am-1am, Sun 10am-midnight. Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, timeoutmarket.com (054 375 2421).
Explore Museum of the Future
(Credit: Supplied)
Chances are you've admired the Museum of the Future (after all, it's one stunning piece of architecture) but have you checked out inside yet?
The museum has a number of floors with different interactive experiences to explore. It recently celebrated its first birthday and with an AI-powered humanoid, Ameca, Bob the robot barista and flying robots inside a visit is something to be ticked off your to-do list this summer.
From Dhs159. Open daily 9.30am-7pm, Sheikh Zayed Road, museumofthefuture.ae (800 2071).
Be Pac-Man for the day
If this was one of your favourites as a kid, then you need to step inside the game and experience real-life Pac-Man.
Now at Active Games, the 45-minute maze will even get your heart rate up as you dodge hungry ghosts, collect power pellets and chase a high score.
From Dhs160. Mon-Wed 1pm-11pm; Fri-Sat 11am-midnight. Al Quoz, feverup.com
Other things to do in Dubai in summer
13 must-visit Dubai attractions remaining open for summer 2025
There's still lots to enjoy during the warmer months
The movies you have to catch this summer (and where to watch them)
The blockbusters you can't afford to miss
50 free things to do in Dubai in 2025
You won't believe what you can do
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5 days ago
- Time Out Dubai
Things to do in Dubai in summer: 53 cool activities to try
Temperatures in summer can get pretty toasty here in Dubai. But that doesn't mean the fun stops. There are heaps of brilliant things to do in Dubai in summer. From fun activities and attractions to try indoors, there's plenty to keep you busy. You might also like: The movies you have to catch this summer From sky-high restaurants with a view to indoor theme parks, and icy milkshakes to slurp, these are the best things to do right now. 56 cool things to do in Dubai in Summer Indoor attractions Be Pac-Man for the day If this was one of your favourites as a kid, then you need to step inside the game and experience real-life Pac-Man. Now at Active Games, the 45-minute maze will even get your heart rate up as you dodge hungry ghosts, collect power pellets and chase a high score. Opening Wed May 7. From Dhs160. Mon-Wed 1pm-11pm; Fri-Sat 11am-midnight. Al Quoz, Bounce around at Loco Bear When it comes to indoor entertainment, pretty much everything you can think of is under this roof. Climbing walls? Yup. Trampolining? Of course. Roll glider? You know it. VR headsets? What do you think. And that's only the half if it. Giving you hours of summer fun, the attraction is the new spot to checkout with all the family. Free entry. Credit bands from Dhs250. Open Mon-Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri-Sun 10am-11pm. Al Quoz 2. (800 56262). Get up high at Ain Dubai The world's largest observation wheel was closed for more than two years for maintenance but has since reopened and is happily spinning once again. Standing at 250m high, the world's largest observation wheel looks out onto Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah as well as landmarks like the Burj Al Arab and the Burj Khalifa. From Dhs145 (aged 12+), From Dhs115 (aged 3+), Free (infants under 3). Ain Dubai, Bluewaters Island. Hit the slopes at Ski Dubai (Credit: Supplied) Getting too hot out and about? Cool off at Ski Dubai. Whether you're meeting the penguins, zorbing along the snow or zipping down the slopes, it's a top way to keep active and have some fun in an icy environment. Sound a bit strenuous? You can ditch the slopes a little early and enjoy the hot chocolate included in your ticket price instead. Prices vary. Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri 10am-midnight, Sat-Sun 9am-midnight. Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, (04 409 4000). Escape the heat (literally) at Game Over (Credit: Game Over Escape Rooms) With themed escape rooms covering everything from Harry Potter to Alice and Wonderland or horror, these 60-minute escape rooms are ideal for two to seven players, so round up your mates and put your brains together, in the cool A/C. Dhs175 (for two). Open Sun-Thu 10am-10.30pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Nakheel Mall, Palm Jumeirah, (04 577 3289). Have a sugar rush at Museum of Candy In need of a sugar rush? The attraction is an incredible adventure browsing 15 rooms all dedicated to (you guessed it), candy. Not only will you learn some weird and wonderful facts, you'll also get to slide into a gummy bear pool, watch some crazy candy being crafted and get some ideal insta opportunities. Don't leave without trying the unlimited ice cream (the flavours might surprise you). From Dhs119 (adult), Dhs99 (child). Open daily 10-10pm. Umm Hurair Rd, Oud Metha, (04 591 0088). Meet the stars at Madame Tussauds (Credit: Supplied) Dubai is a popular place for celebs to travel, but to get up close and personal with the stars (kind of) a trip to Madame Tussauds on Bluewaters Dubai is for you. Snap a selfie next to recently added stars Kate Winslet and George Clooney, before trying an action shot with tennis star Serena Williams. Say 'air-conditioning'. From Dhs95. Open daily 11.30am-8.30pm. Bluewaters Dubai. (04 873 3042). Plunge underwater at Deep Dive Dubai When it comes to trying out something different, a trip to Deep Dive Dubai should be on the agenda. Explore the sunken city 60m deep (that's 14 million litres of water) with scuba diving equipment strapped on. Expect to discover faux abandoned apartments, a library, a games room and more. Not sure if going all the way down to the bottom of a false ocean is for you? There are options to shallow dive and snorkel if you prefer to be close to the surface. Happy splashing. From Dhs400 (snorkelling), from Dhs900 (shallow diving), from Dhs1100 (freediving), from Dhs1800 (scuba). Open daily 9am-6pm, Nad Al Sheba. (04 501 9444). Ride the Stormcoaster at Dubai Hills Mall Wandering around the mall and the urge for an adrenaline rush hits? With twists, turns, massive dives and inclines, the high-octane ride is officially the fastest vertical-launch ride in the world, getting up to 41km/h. Blink and you'll miss it, as the ride whooshes around in under two minutes. It's all indoors, too. From Dhs65. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Hills, (04 448 5033). Say hi to the fish at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo Whether you want to check out the marine life from behind the glass or dive with sharks in the massive tanks, there's an option for all fish fans at The Dubai Aquarium. With 140 species and more than 400 sharks and rays, this is one spot that all the family will love this summer. Prices vary. Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri-Sun 10am-midnight. Dubai Aquarium, Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (800 38224 6255). See the city from The Dubai Frame Want a view, but also want to stay inside? This cool vantage point at Zabeel Park allows visitors with a head for heights to see the city's past, present and future in a one-hour tour with unique views of 'old' and 'new' Dubai from a 150-metre-high sky glass bridge. Don't forget your camera phone as you'll want to capture the super views. Dhs50 (adult), Dhs20 (child). Daily 9am-9pm. Zabeel Park, (800 900). Go shopping in a brand new mall Get your retail therapy in the city's latest shopping mall, where you could literally browse for hours. Pick up some new pieces at stores from Omega to The Editors Market, treat yourself to something sweet from Parka before getting the food shop in at the brand new Spinneys supermarket. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-noon. Nad Al Sheba, Skate around at Dubai Mall Ice Rink When you think of ice skating you usually think of it being Christmas time but here in Dubai we are lucky enough to have access to Dubai Mall's Ice Rink all-year round. The perfect way to stay cool when the sticky summer heat descends, why not brush up on your skating skills followed by a mooch around the A/C chilled mall? From Dhs110. Open daily 10am-midnight, Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (800 3822 46255). Spend the day lost at SENSAS The new multi-sensory experience has just landed in Dubai, putting together a selection of experiences and puzzles that you will work your way around. From wacky taste tests to challenges in pitch darkness, you'll get to make the most of some awesome photo opportunities too. From Dhs140. Open Mon-Thu 11am-10pm, Fri-Sun 10am-11pm. Al Quoz, (050 856 4990). Skydive at iFly There is nothing worse for thrill seekers than being idle and throughout the summer months there is no need to stay shut away. One way to get your adrenaline pumping is by taking part in an indoor skydive at iFly. As part of the experience, you'll be taken four metres into the air (with an instructor) inside a powerful air tunnel and then you will descend down. There is even the option to take part in a VR experience where you can feel like you are taking part in a real skydive from a plane. From Dhs179. Sun-Thu noon-10pm, Fri noon-midnight, Sat noon-11pm. City Centre Mirdif, (04 231 6292). Stroll around the Chinatown Chinatown inside Dubai Mall is like taking a trip to an East-Asian country without boarding a plane. A lovely way to spend an afternoon, there is an expansive food hall (make sure to fuel up on all your favourite Chinese dishes), a handful of shops and a large Chinese medicine spa. There's loads of Instagrammable spots too, so snap a quick selfie next to the giant panda before you leave. Free. Open daily noon-midnight. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, Visit House of Hype A newer addition to Dubai Mall, House of Hype is the type of place you could spend hours in. From making your own music video to creating your own avatar, walking through the different themes and games, to designing trainers with your voice, you've got over 100 activities to choose from. If you need a pick-me-up, try a funky cake pop or a cheesy taiyaki fish as you make your way round. Happy exploring. From Dhs149. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (04 542 0330). Zoom down a glass slide An eye-watering 220m above ground, this slide and walking experience gets your heart pumping while you enjoy jaw-dropping views of the city below. But if that's not enough for your inner thrill-seeker, you can try leaning over the edge – with a safety harness – to bag the Instagram snap of your dreams. While those who want to take things slower can try the glass slide. Don't look down. From Dhs80. Open daily 10am-10pm. Address Sky View Hotel, Downtown Dubai, (04 873 8888). Art and culture Explore Museum of the Future Chances are you've admired the Museum of the Future (after all, it's one stunning piece of architecture) but have you checked out inside yet? The museum has a number of floors with different interactive experiences to explore. It recently celebrated its first birthday and with an AI-powered humanoid, Ameca, Bob the robot barista and flying robots inside a visit is something to be ticked off your to-do list this summer. From Dhs159. Open daily 9.30am-7pm, Sheikh Zayed Road, (800 2071). Read a book at Mohammed Bin Rashid Library This stunning library opened in June 2022 and is a must-visit for those who love to read. There's everything from maps and business books to young adult fiction and special collections. It's home to more than 1.1 million printed and digital books in Arabic and foreign languages. Costing Dhs1 billion to build, the seven-floor building is home to nine libraries, an amphitheatre, a garden and a café, so there's plenty to explore. Free. Open Mon-Thurs, 9am-9pm, Fri, 2pm-9pm, Sat, 9am-9pm. Al Jaddaf, (800 627523). See the summer shows at The Foundry If you didn't know already, The Foundry is one of the best places in Dubai to see art. With free shows all summer, there's loads to explore. Not only free to attend, you can view a series of new works every few weeks from the creative community, including local and international artists. Free. Open daily 10am-10pm. Dubai Downtown Boulevard, (04 367 3696). Visit the Theatre of Digital Art If you're an art lover, the Theatre of Digital Art is one to try. A 360-degree digital art theatre with a variety of events and exhibitions, there's always something new to see and do here. From live jazz music evenings to yoga classes and moving work from some of the world's biggest artists (from Monet to Banksy) the immersive experience is one of the city's coolest attractions. Prices vary. Open daily 10am-11pm. Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, (04 277 4044). Watch a show at Dubai Opera Spend a few hours being mesmerised by your performance, in the comfort of the grand opera house. This stunning boat-shaped building puts on loads of incredible performances, from ballet to rock concerts. You can find more on this years' top gigs and concerts in our 2025 guide here. Prices vary. Downtown Dubai, (04 440 8888). Restaurants Afternoon tea time at The Royal Tearoom Served in the huge lobby of the world-famous hotel, next to the water droplet sculpture and just back from the fire walls on entry, there's a lot to catch your interest at this one. But the afternoon tea that arrives is guaranteed to keep your attention. Served with flair – and explanations about the tea-brewing process – there's a selection of high-quality sandwiches and a generous selection of cakes. Dhs560 for two. Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah, (04 426 2626). Eat unlimited steak at Rowley's Rowley's in DIFC hosts a laid-back yet lively Saturday brunch dedicated to serious meat lovers, offering a full carnivorous feast in a stylish setting. The unlimited brunch menu features endless servings of steak, crispy truffle fries, juicy beef skewers, beef tartare, tater tots and a rotation of signature salads. You can indulge as much as you like while enjoying the cool weekend atmosphere. Dhs260 (house beverages), Dhs190 (soft drinks), free (kids under 7). Sat 12pm-3:30pm. The Slice, Central Park Towers, DIFC, (04 257 4754). Time Out Market (Credit: Time Out Market) If you're other half just can't decide what they want to eat, take them here. The market is packed with some of the city's best food vendors guaranteed to satisfy any craving. In the mood for a filling treat? Grab the garlic knots from Pitfire Pizza. Want something a little more local? Be sure to try the spread from Liban. Mon-Thu noon-midnight, Fri noon-1am, Sat 10am-1am, Sun 10am-midnight. Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, (054 375 2421). Get a mixed beverage and bar bites at Paradiso A restaurant and bar with an incredible view of Dubai, sit amongst the life-size carousel horses and carnival lights for a (very) cool mixed drink and the best bar bites in the city. Order a selection of modern tapas, with the crunchy octopus cracker, truffle brioche, wagyu beef meatballs and paella croquettes all very well presented and extremely moreish. Open Sun-Wed 5pm-2am; Thu-Fri 5pm-4am; Sat 4pm-4am. FIVE LUXE JBR, (04 455 9989). Sip unlimited mixed drinks for Dhs90 (Credit: GABA) Tea room by day, speakeasy by night – the newest bar in Dubai Marina has just launched an impressive deal if you're a fan of mixed drinks. Running every day from 5pm to 10pm, you can enjoy free-flowing mixed drinks while listening to live DJs and checking out the rotating art exhibitions inside. Dhs90. Daily 5pm-10pm. Exact location confirmed on booking, Dubai Marina, @ Kick-start the day with breakfast at Bartartine Famous for its tartines and healthy dishes across Europe, Bartartine's Dubai outpost serves a fantastic breaky. Located in Dubai Hills Mall, the recently opened spot offers both indoor and outdoor seating options and a menu filled to the brim with baked goods and egg dishes. From eggs benedict and the veggie-baked omelette to tasty tartines (of course) made with smoked turkey and Edam cheese, there's a little something for everyone. Wash it all down with some speciality coffee made with an organic blend. Open daily 9am-midnight. Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Hills, (04 529 3467). Make a date at The Agency Those who have been in Dubai for a while will likely remember the popular grape bar The Agency (largely due to its incredible weekly deals). Well, it's back in town with a revamp and is still promising a huge selection of grape. Now located in DIFC's Jumeirah Emirates Towers, the bar promises and an extensive selection of grape-by-the-glass from Dhs50 each. And it's indoors, too. Open daily 11am-1am. Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road. (04 330 0000). Spin around at Al Dawaar Choosing where to sit in a restaurant is high-stakes stuff, and we're not embarrassed to admit we've wandered from window to window multiple times, sat down, and then ended up moving again. But at Al Dawaar Revolving Restaurant, you don't have to worry about choosing the best view of Dubai, as it's guaranteed to come to you. In the 90 minutes it takes to rotate the entire way around, you'll get to enjoy 360-degree views of Deira and beyond as you tuck into classic buffet dishes. We will admit, the novelty does wear off (it's the city's only revolving restaurant for a reason), but the views from the 25th floor make this spot well worth a visit at least once. Open Mon-Fri 6.30pm-11.30pm; Sat-Sun 12.30pm-4pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm. Hyatt Regency Dubai, Deira Corniche. (04 209 6912). Have lunch at SUSHISAMBA Credit: SUSHISAMBA Dubai Check out the SUSHISAMBA's special weekend lunch offer. Expect a dining experience that offers a selection of signature dishes. From the sea bream ceviche and the favourite samba Dubia roll to the seafood cazuela rice. The special weekend lunch menu is priced at Dhs249 for two courses, or Dhs299 for those who want to cheer to a weekend well spent with a glass of grape or mixed drinks. Dhs249 (two courses), Dhs299 (two courses and a glass of grape) Sat-Sun 1pm-3.30pm. Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah, (04 278 4888). Try Dubai's best tasting menu at FZN by Björn Frantzén The restaurant at Atlantis The Palm has just 27 seats, 13 of which surround the open kitchen, where you can try duck barbecue with yuzu, Kampot pepper and foie gras, and turbot with Cecina de wagyu. At dinner, you can choose a grape pairing, a zero percent pairing, a combination of both, or your own selections from a cellar featuring 1,300 grape labels. Starting from AED2,000 per person, this is one of the most expensive tasting menus in Dubai – but it's also one of the best. From Dhs2,000. Open Tue-Sat 7pm-1am. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, (050 107 6322). Visit an award-winning brunch at Zuma One of the most popular brunches around, this has both à la carte and buffet aspects to it, and you get to select one of the restaurant's signature mains which is brought to your table. It's a brilliant way to try one of the best Japanese restaurants in Dubai as there are so many signature dishes to tuck into and a large range of sushi to try. With a selection of maki, nigiri, sashimi and more, plus robata and tempura, the brunch gets off to a strong start. Choose from dishes including the famous miso black cod, before rounding it all off with dessert. The service is excellent and the bar makes for a lively post-brunch drink. A stalwart in DIFC and a crowd-pleaser in every way. Dhs545 (soft drinks), Dhs645 (house beverages), Dhs795 (bubbly). Sat 12.30pm-4pm. Gate Village 6, DIFC. (04 425 5660) Watch a dinner show at Babylon Though there are now many dinner and show venues in the city, there aren't any quite like Babylon in DIFFC. Inspired by the ancient city, the interiors pay homage to decadence and the entertainment follows suit. Plus the upmarket dishes including sushi and steak are just as good as the entertainment. Prices vary. Wed-Sat 9pm-3am. Podium Level, Gate Village 5, DIFC. (04 352 7750). Family Get caught in the rain at The Green Planet Missing wildlife? What about the rain? Fancy a trip to the jungle? A tropical thunderstorm happens at 1pm and 5pm every day at The Green Planet to help you cool off. From Dhs155. Open daily 10am-6pm. City Walk, Al Safa Street, (800 637227). Take the kiddos to a new ice-cream parlour Credit: Amorino Now nestled into Souk Madinat Jumeirah, the ice-cream parlour was originally founded in 2002 by two Italian friends, taking over Italy, Paris, and now Dubai. Famed for its tasty cones in the shape of a rose, you can sample over 22 flavours and discover the souk's alleyway with a chilly treat. Don't forget to top the cone with a gelato-filled macaron when you're ordering, or for those who don't fancy a cone, try an Affogato or a French crêpe instead. Sun-Thurs 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Al Sufouh 1. (055 229 3710). Explore Tr88house This cool indoor play centre has areas for all different ages, from tots to tweens. including trampolines and even a soft play. At 65,000 sq ft there's plenty of room to run around indoors. There's a coffee shop, too if you're a parent in desperate need of a caffeine fix. From Dhs50. Open daily 10am-midnight. Bluewaters Dubai, (04 355 8888). Run around at KidZania (Credit: Supplied) If your little ones are desperate to let off a little steam over the warmer months, swap an outdoor playground for an indoor play town, and let them go crazy at KidZania. Here, they can try their hand at all sorts of career options, be it a firefighter or radio presenter, a pilot or even a surgeon! There are all sorts of other cool grown-up roles for them to test their skills at too, so a few hours here should burn off plenty of energy. From Dhs195. Open daily 10am-11pm. Dubai Mall, (04 448 5222). Scream at IMG Dubai's 1.5million-square-foot IMG Worlds of Adventure is the biggest indoor theme park on the planet, and it's home to some pretty epic rides (and ice-cold A/C). The only things sweating will be your palms as you ride the roller coasters in all of the different zones. If you're coming with the little ones, be sure to visit the IMG Kids' Zone too. Dhs345 (adults), Dhs100 (kids). Open Sun-Fri noon-10pm, Sat noon-11pm. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Dubailand, (04 403 8888). Visit Loco Bear When it comes to indoor entertainment, pretty much everything you can think of is under this roof. Climbing walls? Yup. Trampolining? Of course. Roll glider? You know it. VR headsets? What do you think. And that's only the half if it. Giving you hours of summer fun, the attraction is the new spot to checkout with all the family. Free entry. Credit bands from Dhs250. Open Mon-Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri-Sun 10am-11pm. Al Quoz 2. (800 56262). Sport Burn it up at CRANK Credit: CRANK This Al Quoz studio is known for pushing the boundaries when it comes to a spin class (they've even hosted one on the DXB runway), so expect to push yourself at one of the sessions. Get in the zone inside the darkened studio, get lost in the music (the playlists are top-notch) and keep riding until your legs are burning. Expect some intense endorphins after this one. From Dhs130. Open Sun, Mon, Wed, Fri 6.30am-9.30pm, Tue, Thu 6am-9.30pm, Sat 8am-2pm. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, (04 321 2095). Jump around at Parkour DXB Flexing your running muscles has never been easier or more fun, than with Parkour. Dubai is one of the best cities in the world to test your skills, with three locations dotted around town. Parkour JVC is a particular standout, with a 5,500sqft gym featuring custom-built obstacle courses. Classes are available for all age groups, too, so don't rule it out as an option for little ones. Opening times and prices. Various locations including Port Rashid, Al Quoz and JVC. (800 727 5687). Glow in the dark mini golf at JBR You can traverse three worlds across 18 holes of luminous action at 3D Blacklight Minigolf's 18-hole course. With everything from desert scenes to the ocean depths and the solar system, it really is golf with a difference. From Dhs110. Open Mon-Thurs 1pm-1am, Fri-Sun 11am-1am. Bahar Plaza Level, The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence. (04 565 7621). Practise underwater yoga at The Lost Chambers This is as close to doing yoga under the sea as it gets. At this early-morning session (well, 8am) at the popular aquarium on the Palm, not only will you be put through your paces at a yoga class, but you'll also do so surrounded by the stunning tanks at the Lost Chambers aquarium. You'll come out feeling relaxed and stretched, and you'll also get a chance to spot sharks, stingrays and jellyfish while you strike a pose. Dhs175. Mon, Wed, Sat, Sun, 8am-9am. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, (04 426 1000). Have a sound healing session Things to do in Dubai in July. Credit: The Chi Room Spend an evening connecting with your inner emotions as you listen to the tones of Tibetan bowls being rung throughout the room. Located in Al Quoz, the studio will get you to lie down and simply listen to the soothing frequencies, designed to help your mind relax and settle. Or if you would rather do something different, the studio hosts sessions in yoga, meditation and even breathwork to ensure you find some inner calm. Prices vary. Open daily 8.30am-8pm. The Chi Room, Unit 80, Alserkal Avenue. (04 573 6500). Skate around at Roll DXB Get your skates on, literally, as this is one cool indoor venue you'll want to rush along to this summer. Roll DXB is a super-fun place for a laugh-a-minute day out as you skid around the roller rink to top tunes. Head here with your mates or a date and enjoy top tunes as you attempt to stay on your feet. A retro roller disco vibe means you'll have a brilliant night out. Neon headbands at the ready. From Dhs90. Open daily 11am-11pm. Marina Cubes, Port Rashid, Deira, ( 055 800 6868). Swing at the golf simulator at Five Iron Although plenty of courses in Dubai have summer golf deals, if you want to avoid the heat on the fairways but still practise your swing, Five Iron is a top option. As well as the pool tables and shuffleboard, the golf simulators are absolutely worth a try, where you can battle it out with your mates around the course without setting foot outside, plus you can refuel with some tasty pub grab afterwards. Are you the next Rory McIlroy or Lydia Ko? Grab a club and find out. From Dhs74.5. Open Sun-Mon 7am-midnight, Tue-Thu 7am-1am, Fri-Sat 7am-2am. The Westin Dubai Marina, (04 396 6867). Try a Pilates class at POSTURE Posture The studio is about as aesthetic as they come, with starlit roofs, huge lit mirrors and a gorgeous recovery area where you can pick up a coffee afterwards. Offering everything from reformer to sound healing and yoga, the team come from all around the world with some of the best technique in the business. From Dhs150 (single class). Class timings vary. Downtown Dubai and Palm Jumeirah, (058 515 0624). Cinemas with USPs Cinemacity Fountain Views This licensed cinema has a VIP experience. Put your feet up in the VIP recliner and prepare to be thoroughly entertained in the utmost comfort. Dhs138 (VIP Class Recliner). Cinemacity Fountain Views, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, (04 770 0111). Watch a summer blockbuster at Roxy Xtreme Cinemas can even get a little too cold, so if you're feeling the heat it's time to cool off in front of the silver screen. Boasting the largest cinema screen in the Middle East, the Roxy Xtreme screen is a whopping 28m high by 15.1m wide, which is the size of two tennis courts. When watching a film here, you can even sit in the Director's Boxes, which host 12 people and come with food. Prices vary. Roxy Cinemas, Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Hills, (800 7699). ScreenX at Reel Cinemas in Dubai Mall This multi-projection screening system offers audiences a 270-degree cinema screen. That means even your peripheral vision will be fully engaged in the latest blockbusters. The technology expands the image of films onto three of the cinema's walls without distorting what's on screen and is perfect for watching action-packed flicks or horror movies. Yikes. Prices vary. Reel Cinemas, Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai (800 382246255). The Theatre at Vox Cinemas Tucked up inside Mall of the Emirates, this movie magic has gone *all out* to make you feel like a VIP. Arrive early before your movie, so you can make the most of the THEATRE lounge, complete with welcome drinks, pool tables and even shuffleboards for a quick game before the trailers start rolling. Ranging from around Dhs225 a ticket, popcorn is included, but of course, you can order some other treats once you're in there. And by treats, we mean a full three-course meal if you fancied it. Whether you choose burger sliders, a steak sandwich or dynamite shrimp, enjoy personal butler service. Prices vary. VOX Cinemas, Mall of the Emirates, Level 2, (600 599905). Waterparks to cool off at Atlantis Aquaventure Found at Atlantis The Palm, thrill-seekers can make the most of a line-up of world-class slides and cool off with a float around the lazy river. Something for the little ones, the park also has a dedicated kids' zone featuring a giant pirate ship that is kitted out with water guns and giant buckets. Just remember to pick up some pool socks so your feet don't get too hot. From Dhs360. Open daily 9.15am-6pm. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah. (04 426 0000). Jungle Bay Ready for family fun near the Marina? The Lighthouse, Whizzard & Body Slides are gentle slides that are perfect for little thrill seekers, while a dedicated splash park, Aquaplay, with no height restrictions, is aimed at kids of all ages. For the more daring, Family Waves is a six-metre pneumatic wave pool offering hours of splashing fun. P.S: You'll need to book this one in advance as it's a very popular choice. Dhs200 (adults), Dhs100 (kids aged four-12) Mon-Fri; Dhs300 (adults), Dhs200 (kids aged four-12) Sat-Sun. Open daily 8am-sunset. Al Sufouh, (04 399 3333). Wild Wadi Backdrops don't get much better than that of the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. With around 30 fun slides and experiences there's something for everyone whether you're looking for hair-raising, or just hoping not to get your hair wet at all. One of Dubai's oldest and most iconic waterparks, a fun day out is guaranteed. From Dhs195 (residents). Open daily 10am-6pm. Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Umm Suqeim, (04 348 4444). Other things to do in Dubai in summer 13 must-visit Dubai attractions remaining open for summer 2025 There's still lots to enjoy during the warmer months The movies you have to catch this summer (and where to watch them) The blockbusters you can't afford to miss 50 free things to do in Dubai in 2025 You won't believe what you can do
Time Out Dubai
15-07-2025
- Time Out Dubai
This is exactly when Dubai summer will end this year, according to experts
Summer is famously a time of year when temperatures are hot, humidity is rife and some of our favourite attractions temporarily close. While there are some incredible perks to spending summer in Dubai and a zillion fun indoor activities that are cool (in more ways than one), you may be wondering, 'How long does summer actually last in Dubai?' Don't worry, we've got the intel. When will Dubai summer 2025 actually end? Dubai summer 2025 (Credit: Adobe Express) Astronomically, it has been confirmed that Dubai summer will end on Monday September 22, meaning this year's summer period is exactly three months and one day long. 93 days in total, if you want to be precise. Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Board Chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Society and member of the Arab Union for Space and Astronomy Sciences, confirmed the duration of Dubai summer for 2025. He said: 'Summer will begin astronomically on June 21 with the summer solstice and will last for three months until September 23. 'During this period, temperatures will range between 41 and 43 degrees Celsius, accompanied by dry conditions and active winds.' He continued, 'The UAE will experience its longest daylight hours between June 18 and 24, reaching up to 13 hours and 43 minutes.' After the summer solstice, we can start to look forward to the autumnal equinox, which will happen on Tuesday September 23. Beat the heat with these Dubai summer activities For a full list of indoor Dubai summer activities – ranging from indoor attractions and water parks to cinemas and museums – head here. Below, are some of are favourites. Hit the slopes at Ski Dubai (Credit: Supplied) Getting too hot out and about? Cool off at Ski Dubai. Whether you're meeting the penguins, zorbing along the snow or zipping down the slopes, it's a top way to keep active and have some fun in an icy environment. Sound a bit strenuous? You can ditch the slopes a little early and enjoy the hot chocolate included in your ticket price instead. Prices vary. Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri 10am-midnight, Sat-Sun 9am-midnight. Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, (04 409 4000). Cool off at Atlantis Aquaventure (Credit: Atlantis Aquaventure) Found at Atlantis The Palm, thrill-seekers can make the most of a line-up of world-class slides and cool off with a float around the lazy river. Something for the little ones, the park also has a dedicated kids' zone featuring a giant pirate ship that is kitted out with water guns and giant buckets. Just remember to pick up some pool socks so your feet don't get too hot. From Dhs360. Open daily 9.15am-6pm. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah. (04 426 0000). Watch a summer blockbuster at Roxy Xtreme If you're feeling the heat, it's time to cool off in front of the silver screen. Boasting the largest cinema screen in the Middle East, the Roxy Xtreme screen is a whopping 28m high by 15.1m wide, which is the size of two tennis courts. When watching a film here, you can even sit in the Director's Boxes, which host 12 people and come with food. Prices vary. Roxy Cinemas, Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Hills, (800 7699). Underwater yoga at The Lost Chambers (Credit: The Lost Chambers Aquarium) This is as close to doing yoga under the sea as it gets. At this early-morning session (well, 8am) at the popular aquarium on the Palm, not only will you be put through your paces at a yoga class, but you'll also do so surrounded by the stunning tanks at the Lost Chambers aquarium. You'll come out feeling relaxed and stretched, and you'll also get a chance to spot sharks, stingrays and jellyfish while you strike a pose. Dhs175. Mon, Wed, Sat, Sun, 8am-9am. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, (04 426 1000). Time Out Market (Credit: ITP Images) If you're other half just can't decide what they want to eat, take them here. The market is packed with some of the city's best food vendors, guaranteed to satisfy any craving. In the mood for a filling treat? Grab the garlic knots from Pitfire Pizza. Want something a little more local? Be sure to try the spread from Liban. Mon-Thu noon-midnight, Fri noon-1am, Sat 10am-1am, Sun 10am-midnight. Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, (054 375 2421). Explore Museum of the Future (Credit: Supplied) Chances are you've admired the Museum of the Future (after all, it's one stunning piece of architecture) but have you checked out inside yet? The museum has a number of floors with different interactive experiences to explore. It recently celebrated its first birthday and with an AI-powered humanoid, Ameca, Bob the robot barista and flying robots inside a visit is something to be ticked off your to-do list this summer. From Dhs159. Open daily 9.30am-7pm, Sheikh Zayed Road, (800 2071). Be Pac-Man for the day If this was one of your favourites as a kid, then you need to step inside the game and experience real-life Pac-Man. Now at Active Games, the 45-minute maze will even get your heart rate up as you dodge hungry ghosts, collect power pellets and chase a high score. From Dhs160. Mon-Wed 1pm-11pm; Fri-Sat 11am-midnight. Al Quoz, Discover House of Hype Created by the team behind equally impressive Dubai attraction AYA Universe, this lot know how to give you a cool Insta-op. Tucked inside Chinatown at Dubai Mall, and on first glance, you might not know what to expect. But trust us on this one. This gigantic experience has over 100 different things to do, and you'll feel like you've walked through video games, taken a stroll through Japan and stumbled into a dream at the same time. From Dhs149. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (04 542 0330). Satisfy your sweet tooth at Museum of Candy In need of a sugar rush? The attraction is an incredible adventure browsing 15 rooms all dedicated to (you guessed it), candy. Not only will you learn some weird and wonderful facts, you'll also get to slide into a gummy bear pool, watch some crazy candy being crafted and get some ideal insta opportunities. Don't leave without trying the unlimited ice cream (the flavours might surprise you). From Dhs119 (adult), Dhs99 (child). Open daily 10am-10pm. Umm Hurair Rd, Oud Metha, (04 591 0088). Other things to do in Dubai in summer 11 wonderfully quirky things to do in Dubai Step out your comfort zone and try one of these activities The movies you have to catch this summer (and where to watch them) The blockbusters you can't afford to miss 50 free things to do in Dubai in 2025 You won't believe what you can do
Time Out Dubai
20-06-2025
- Time Out Dubai
This is *exactly* how long summer will last in Dubai this year
Summer officially arrives in Dubai on Saturday June 21, and is famously a time of year when temperatures are hot, humidity is rife and some of our favourite attractions temporarily close. While there are some incredible perks to spending summer in Dubai and a zillion fun indoor activities that are cool (in more ways than one), you may be wondering, 'How long does summer actually last in Dubai?' Don't worry, we've got the intel. How long is Dubai summer in 2025? Dubai summer 2025 (Credit: Adobe Express) Astronomically, it has been confirmed that Dubai summer will end on Monday September 22, meaning this year's summer period is exactly three months and one day long. 93 days in total, if you want to be precise. Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Board Chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Society and member of the Arab Union for Space and Astronomy Sciences, confirmed the duration of Dubai summer for 2025. He said: 'Summer will begin astronomically on June 21 with the summer solstice and will last for three months until September 23. 'During this period, temperatures will range between 41 and 43 degrees Celsius, accompanied by dry conditions and active winds.' He continued, 'The UAE will experience its longest daylight hours between June 18 and 24, reaching up to 13 hours and 43 minutes.' After the summer solstice, we can start to look forward to the autumnal equinox, which will happen on Tuesday September 23. Beat the heat with these Dubai summer activities For a full list of indoor Dubai summer activities – ranging from indoor attractions and water parks to cinemas and museums – head here. Below, are some of are favourites. Hit the slopes at Ski Dubai (Credit: Supplied) Getting too hot out and about? Cool off at Ski Dubai. Whether you're meeting the penguins, zorbing along the snow or zipping down the slopes, it's a top way to keep active and have some fun in an icy environment. Sound a bit strenuous? You can ditch the slopes a little early and enjoy the hot chocolate included in your ticket price instead. Prices vary. Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri 10am-midnight, Sat-Sun 9am-midnight. Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, (04 409 4000). Cool off at Atlantis Aquaventure (Credit: Atlantis Aquaventure) Found at Atlantis The Palm, thrill-seekers can make the most of a line-up of world-class slides and cool off with a float around the lazy river. Something for the little ones, the park also has a dedicated kids' zone featuring a giant pirate ship that is kitted out with water guns and giant buckets. Just remember to pick up some pool socks so your feet don't get too hot. From Dhs360. Open daily 9.15am-6pm. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah. (04 426 0000). Watch a summer blockbuster at Roxy Xtreme If you're feeling the heat, it's time to cool off in front of the silver screen. Boasting the largest cinema screen in the Middle East, the Roxy Xtreme screen is a whopping 28m high by 15.1m wide, which is the size of two tennis courts. When watching a film here, you can even sit in the Director's Boxes, which host 12 people and come with food. Prices vary. Roxy Cinemas, Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Hills, (800 7699). Underwater yoga at The Lost Chambers (Credit: The Lost Chambers Aquarium) This is as close to doing yoga under the sea as it gets. At this early-morning session (well, 8am) at the popular aquarium on the Palm, not only will you be put through your paces at a yoga class, but you'll also do so surrounded by the stunning tanks at the Lost Chambers aquarium. You'll come out feeling relaxed and stretched, and you'll also get a chance to spot sharks, stingrays and jellyfish while you strike a pose. Dhs175. Mon, Wed, Sat, Sun, 8am-9am. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, (04 426 1000). Time Out Market (Credit: ITP Images) If you're other half just can't decide what they want to eat, take them here. The market is packed with some of the city's best food vendors, guaranteed to satisfy any craving. In the mood for a filling treat? Grab the garlic knots from Pitfire Pizza. Want something a little more local? Be sure to try the spread from Liban. Mon-Thu noon-midnight, Fri noon-1am, Sat 10am-1am, Sun 10am-midnight. Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, (054 375 2421). Explore Museum of the Future (Credit: Supplied) Chances are you've admired the Museum of the Future (after all, it's one stunning piece of architecture) but have you checked out inside yet? The museum has a number of floors with different interactive experiences to explore. It recently celebrated its first birthday and with an AI-powered humanoid, Ameca, Bob the robot barista and flying robots inside a visit is something to be ticked off your to-do list this summer. From Dhs159. Open daily 9.30am-7pm, Sheikh Zayed Road, (800 2071). Be Pac-Man for the day If this was one of your favourites as a kid, then you need to step inside the game and experience real-life Pac-Man. Now at Active Games, the 45-minute maze will even get your heart rate up as you dodge hungry ghosts, collect power pellets and chase a high score. From Dhs160. Mon-Wed 1pm-11pm; Fri-Sat 11am-midnight. Al Quoz, Discover House of Hype Created by the team behind equally impressive Dubai attraction AYA Universe, this lot know how to give you a cool Insta-op. Tucked inside Chinatown at Dubai Mall, and on first glance, you might not know what to expect. But trust us on this one. This gigantic experience has over 100 different things to do, and you'll feel like you've walked through video games, taken a stroll through Japan and stumbled into a dream at the same time. From Dhs149. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (04 542 0330). Satisfy your sweet tooth at Museum of Candy In need of a sugar rush? The attraction is an incredible adventure browsing 15 rooms all dedicated to (you guessed it), candy. Not only will you learn some weird and wonderful facts, you'll also get to slide into a gummy bear pool, watch some crazy candy being crafted and get some ideal insta opportunities. Don't leave without trying the unlimited ice cream (the flavours might surprise you). From Dhs119 (adult), Dhs99 (child). Open daily 10am-10pm. Umm Hurair Rd, Oud Metha, (04 591 0088). Other things to do in Dubai in summer 11 wonderfully quirky things to do in Dubai Step out your comfort zone and try one of these activities The movies you have to catch this summer (and where to watch them) The blockbusters you can't afford to miss 50 free things to do in Dubai in 2025 You won't believe what you can do
