Dubai is renowned for its stunning modern architecture, including landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and the Burj Al Arab, an iconic sail-shaped hotel. These landmarks make the city a testament to innovative design and luxurious living. In 2024, discovering the cheapest time to go to Dubai is essential for savvy travelers seeking to maximize their budget without compromising on experiences.
Understanding the fluctuations in airfare, hotel rates, and tourist demand throughout the year in Dubai can lead to substantial savings. Dubai offers a plethora of attractions, whether you want to explore the mesmerizing skyline, indulge in luxury shopping, or experience the vibrant culture. By strategically planning your trip, you can unlock incredible deals and enjoy this dynamic city without breaking the bank. Let’s explore the nuances of finding the cheapest time to visit Dubai in 2024.
Cheapest Time to Visit Dubai in 2024/2025
Generally, the cheapest time to go to Dubai in 2024 is during the low season, which falls between June and August. During this time, temperatures soar, reaching up to 45°C, and humidity levels rise significantly. While the scorching heat may not be ideal for outdoor activities, you can find significant savings on flights and hotels.
Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons in Dubai and what to expect in terms of prices:
- High Season (November to March): This is Dubai’s peak tourist season, with pleasant weather (average temperatures in the mid-20s °C) and the most happening events. Expect to pay the highest prices for flights and hotels during this time.
- Shoulder Seasons (April to May and September to October): These shoulder months offer a good balance between decent weather and slightly lower prices compared to the peak season. However, temperatures can still be quite hot, especially in April and May.
- Low Season (June to August): These are the cheapest times to book your summer holidays. However, they are also considered the hottest months of the year, with scorching temperatures and high humidity. However, they are also the cheapest time to visit Dubai, with significant discounts on flights and hotels.
It’s important to note that if you plan to visit Dubai during Ramadan, you must be mindful of cultural sensitivities. Eating and drinking in public during daylight hours is prohibited, and many restaurants and shops may have shorter operating hours.
Average Cost to Travel to Dubai Tours During the Cheapest Time
During the low season (June to August) in Dubai, you can expect to find the cheapest flights, hotels, and, consequently, Dubai tours. However, it’s important to remember that the scorching heat and high humidity might not be ideal for everyone.
Here’s a glimpse of the average cost to travel to Dubai tours during the cheapest time:
Budget Dubai tours (Around $500 – $1000 per person): These tours typically include basic accommodations, transportation, and a few activities. They might also include meals, but this is not always the case.
Mid-range Dubai tours ($1000 – $2000 per person): These tours offer a more comfortable experience with better quality accommodations, more activities, and potentially include meals.
Luxury Dubai tours ($2000+ per person): These tours provide the most luxurious experience, with top-notch accommodations and exclusive activities. They may even include private transportation and gourmet meals.
Pros & Cons of Traveling to Dubai During the Cheapest Time
The low season, from June to August, is undeniably the cheapest time to visit Dubai. However, the scorching heat and high humidity make it challenging for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pros of Visiting Dubai in the Low Season
- Budget-Friendly: Enjoy significant savings on flights, hotels, and other travel expenses.
- Fewer Crowds: Experience popular attractions with minimal crowds.
- Indoor Activities: Dubai offers many indoor attractions, perfect for escaping the heat.
Cons of Visiting Dubai in the Low Season
- Extreme Heat: Temperatures can reach uncomfortable levels, making outdoor activities nearly impossible.
- Limited Daylight Hours: Shorter days due to the region’s proximity to the Tropic of Cancer.
- Reduced Operating Hours: Some attractions and businesses may have reduced operating hours.
Cheapest Time to Book Your Flights to Dubai
The cheapest time to book flights to Dubai is generally 2-6 months in advance. For the best deals, consider booking during the low season in the summer months (June to August) when the heat is extreme and fewer tourists visit. The shoulder seasons in late spring (April to May) and early fall (September to October) also offer lower prices with more moderate weather conditions.
Regarding the best day to book your flights, studies suggest that Tuesdays and Wednesdays often have the lowest fares. Booking your flights during these midweek days can sometimes yield significant savings compared to weekends when more people are booking their travel plans. You also can use fare comparison websites and apps (like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak) that allow you to search for the cheapest flights within a range of dates. Being flexible with your travel dates can help you find the best deals.
Cheapest Time to Book Your Hotels in Dubai
The cheapest time to book hotels in Dubai typically aligns with the low season, which is during the summer months (June to August). During this period, the extreme heat results in fewer tourists, leading to lower hotel rates and attractive discounts. Booking your stay during this time can help you secure the best deals on accommodations.
For the best rates, booking your hotel at least 1-3 months in advance is also advisable. Additionally, midweek stays (Tuesday to Thursday) often come with lower prices than weekends, when demand is higher. By combining advance booking with traveling during the low season and midweek days, you will find the cheapest time to book your hotels and maximize your savings on hotel stays in Dubai.
Cheapest Things to Do in Dubai in 2024
Dubai is known for its luxurious lifestyle, but there are also plenty of affordable things to see and do in this fascinating city. Here are some of the cheapest things you can do in Dubai:
- Explore Old Dubai: Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Dubai by exploring the narrow alleys and traditional souks (markets) of Old Dubai. Be sure to bargain for the best prices on souvenirs!
- Visit the Dubai Museum: Learn about Dubai’s history and culture at the Dubai Museum, housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest building in Dubai. The entrance fee is only 3 AED (around $0.80 USD).
- See the Dubai Fountain Show: The Dubai Fountain Show is a spectacular choreographed display of water, music, and light located at the Burj Khalifa Lake. The show is free to watch and takes place several times a day.
- Walk along the Dubai Marina: Take a stroll along the Dubai Marina and admire the stunning views of the skyscrapers and yachts. At the Marina Walk, you can also people-watch or have a picnic.
- Relax at Jumeirah Beach Park: Enjoy a day at Jumeirah Beach Park, a public beach with swimming pools, sun loungers, and showers. The entrance fee is only 5 AED (around $1.35 USD).
- Ride the Dubai Metro: Experience the Dubai Metro, a clean and efficient way to get around the city. Tickets start at just 3 AED (around $0.80 USD) per ride.
- Shop at the souks: Explore the vibrant souks of Dubai, such as the Deira Souk (gold souk) and the Spice Souk. Haggling is expected, so be prepared to bargain for the best prices!
- Visit Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood: Take a walk through the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, a traditional Emirati neighborhood with wind towers, courtyards, and art galleries.
- Explore the Dubai Design District (d3): Discover Dubai’s creative side at the Dubai Design District (d3), a hub for art galleries, design studios, and concept stores.
- Go on a dhow cruise: Take a traditional dhow cruise along Dubai Creek and see the city differently. Prices start at around 100 AED (around $27 USD) per person.
Tips for Cheapest Time to Go to Dubai
Here are some tips for visiting Dubai during the cheapest time:
Travel during the low season (June to August): This is the hottest time of year in Dubai, with temperatures soaring up to 45°C (113°F). However, it’s also the cheapest time to visit, with significant discounts on flights and hotels. If you can handle the heat, this is the best time to score a budget-friendly trip.
Be flexible with your travel dates: If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may be able to find cheaper flights and hotels by flying on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons (April to May and September to October).
Book your flights and hotels in advance: Booking your flights and hotels in advance can help you snag better deals. However, be mindful of cancellation policies in case your plans change. You can read more about the cheapest time to book your flights in 2024.
Consider alternative accommodation options: Dubai offers many affordable accommodation options, such as hostels, guesthouses, and apartments. You can also look for hotels that offer discounts for longer stays.
Cook your own meals: Eating out can be expensive in Dubai. Consider staying in an apartment with a kitchen to cook your own meals. You can also buy groceries from local supermarkets, which are much cheaper than eating out at restaurants.
Take advantage of free activities: There are many free things to do in Dubai, such as exploring the souks, visiting the Dubai Museum, and watching the Dubai Fountain Show.
Get around using public transportation: Dubai has a clean and efficient public transportation system, including the metro, buses, and trams. This is a much cheaper way to get around than taxis or ride-sharing services.
Haggle in the souks: Haggling is expected in the souks, so don’t be afraid to bargain for the best prices on souvenirs and other goods.
Share this BlogFrequently Asked Questions
Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer a balance between decent weather and slightly lower prices compared to peak season (November-March).
- Be flexible: Travel on weekdays or during shoulder seasons for potentially cheaper flights and hotels.
- Book in advance: Secure flights and hotels early to potentially snag better deals.
- Explore alternative stays: Consider hostels, guesthouses, or apartments for more affordable options.
- Self-cater: Cook your own meals to save on dining costs.
- Embrace free activities: Explore the vibrant souks, visit the Dubai Museum, or catch the Dubai Fountain Show for free entertainment.
- Utilize public transport: Opt for the metro, buses, or trams for budget-friendly travel within the city.
Embrace the art of haggling: Bargain for the best prices, especially in the souks.
Generally, weekdays tend to be slightly cheaper than weekends for flying to Dubai. This is because business travelers typically fly on weekdays, while leisure travelers often fly on weekends. However, it's always recommended to compare prices across different days and airlines to find the best deal.