Travel time: Year-round
Abu Dhabi’s climate is defined by two primary seasons—a long, intense summer and a mild, pleasant winter—punctuated by short transitional periods. Located on a T-shaped island jutting into the Arabian Gulf, the city experiences a constant tug-of-war between the arid heat of the Empty Quarter desert and the heavy moisture of the sea. This unique positioning creates a subtropical desert environment (BWh) where sunny blue skies are the default for over 300 days a year.
This is the city’s peak season, characterized by crisp air and manageable warmth. Daytime highs typically range from 22°C to 26°C (72°F–79°F), while evenings can feel surprisingly brisk as temperatures drop to 14°C (57°F). This period also hosts the region's rare rainfall; when it does rain, it is often a brief, celebrated event rather than a disruption.
As the city leaves winter behind, temperatures climb rapidly. April sees averages around 32°C (90°F), and by May, the first "heatwaves" arrive, pushing the mercury toward 38°C (100°F). Humidity begins to build during these months, signaling the end of the outdoor dining season.
Summer in Abu Dhabi is a test of endurance. Daytime temperatures consistently exceed 40°C (104°F) and can peak near 50°C (122°F) in July and August. At night, the heat rarely dissipates, with lows often hovering around 32°C (90°F). The proximity to the Gulf means humidity levels can reach a stifling 90%, creating a "feels-like" temperature (Heat Index) that is significantly higher than the actual reading.
October is a major transition month. While still hot, the humidity begins to break, and by November, the daytime heat returns to a comfortable 30°C (86°F). This is often considered the best time for beach lovers, as the sea remains exceptionally warm while the air begins to cool.
In Abu Dhabi, the weather behaves predictably throughout the day. Mornings offer the most movement in the air; as the desert land heats up faster than the sea during the day, a land-sea breeze cycle emerges.
Between December and March, Abu Dhabi is famous for its "Red Alert" fog. This occurs when moist sea air meets the rapidly cooling desert floor at night. The result is a thick, ethereal blanket that can reduce visibility to near zero, often lingering until the mid-morning sun burns it away.
Meaning "North" in Arabic, the Shamal winds are northwesterly gusts that can occur year-round but are most frequent in summer. While they can bring a temporary cooling effect, they often whip up fine desert sand, creating hazy conditions or full-scale sandstorms that mask the sun in a dusty orange glow.
For locals, the weather isn't just a forecast; it's a lifestyle architect. Historically, the region utilized Barjeel (wind towers) to funnel cool breezes into homes. Today, the city is one of the most air-conditioned places on Earth.
Local life shifts according to the mercury: