6 brilliant perks to staying in Dubai for summer
Now, not all of us have the luxury of jetting off for weeks or months at a time — but don't fret. We're actually about to let you in on a little secret about summer in Dubai.
As it turns out, staying put in the city is pretty fantastic, and there are lots of perks to keep you happy.
If you like this: Too hot? 70 cool indoor activities in Dubai to tick off this summer
Yes, it might be a little too hot for mountain hikes and long days at the beach, but instead you get cheap staycations, serious discounts, sales and a halved commute time.
So if you need convincing, or want to hype yourself up for this summer in Dubai, then you've come to the right place.
The perks of staying for summer in Dubai
1) Reduced working hours
This year, public sector employees will be treated to a four-day working week throughout the summer (now that's a serious perk).
It follows a successful initial trial scheme first introduced in 2024 for those working for government entities.
Set to begin on Tuesday July 1, the 2025 'Our Flexible Summer' initiative will run until Friday September 12. Created to allow a better work-life balance, the scheme will be in force for all government entities.
2) Quicker journey times
Say goodbye to long traffic queues (Credit: Adobe)
Whether you're taking the car, riding on the bus or using the metro, you're bound to notice a difference in the summer. Once the calendar hits July 1, the city disperses, and those long commutes or traffic hold-ups are nowhere near as long.
If you like reading this: 36 major traffic improvement projects coming soon to Dubai
As you zip around the city, make sure you savour that quick commute, or the metro ride where you managed to score a seat, because you might not see them again come September.
3) Going night swimming
The best places to go night swimming in Dubai (Credit: Nobu By The Beach)
During the summer, a selection of the city's coolest pools keeps the doors open after the sun has gone down, inviting you for a refreshing moonlight dip.
There is nothing better than plunging into the cold waters after a long hot day, and with venues like Cloud 22 and KYMA beach available to book, this is a summertime treat you can't afford to miss.
4) Visiting less-crowded attractions
(Credit: CanvaPro)
This is the time to really see the sights. During summer in Dubai, most of the big attractions are still open and often a lot less crowded.
Even the indoor attractions are easier to visit, so you can spend your Dubai summer days hitting the slopes at Ski Dubai, jumping in the ball pit at AYA Universe or seeing some stunning views at the Dubai Frame. Need more ideas on what to do? Check out our guide on the best things to do indoors in Dubai.
You might also like: 13 top-tier Dubai attractions remaining open for summer 2025
5) Dubai Summer Surprises
Dubai Summer Surprises is back again for 2024 (Credit: Supplied)
If you don't know, get to know. Dubai Summer Surprises is one of the most talked about events of the year, and might just be the best time of year to shop in the city. Everywhere you turn there's a bargain to be had, which is music to the ears of your wallet.
If you like this: Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 full lineup revealed
In addition to shopping, DSS is also launching a month of Dhs10 dishes at some incredible restaurants and hosting a fully air-conditioned music festival, meaning your diary is going to be jam-packed.
6) Making last-minute reservations
Make the most of easy tables and impressive deals (Credit: Supplied)
Need dinner plans? No problem. The city getting quieter means that top restaurants aren't all booked weeks in advance, so you can make the most of a last-minute reservation.
As well as all that choice, many of Dubai's top spots are offering discounts or deals for the summer season – think unlimited sushi or a three-course menu for Dhs165.
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