Winter is the most comfortable time of year to visit Dubai, but it catches many travellers out. Days are warm and sunny, evenings are noticeably cooler, the desert can be cold after dark, and indoor spaces are heavily air-conditioned all year round. The answer is layers. Here is how to pack and dress for a Dubai winter, whether you are there for a holiday, a wedding or visiting family.

What is the weather like in Dubai in winter?

From roughly December to February, daytime temperatures are usually warm, often in the low to mid twenties Celsius, with plenty of sunshine. Evenings cool down, particularly by the water and in the desert, where nights can feel properly chilly. Rain is rare but possible. Malls, restaurants and hotels are cool inside, so even on a warm day you may want sleeves.

Dress codes: what to keep in mind

Dubai is cosmopolitan, but it is still respectful to cover your shoulders and knees in malls, souks, government buildings and traditional areas. Beachwear belongs at the beach or pool. If you plan to visit a mosque, wear loose clothing that covers your arms and legs and bring a scarf for your hair. Co-ord sets with long sleeves and full-length trousers make this easy, because you are covered without having to think about it.

Daytime: light, breathable and covered

For sightseeing, shopping and lunches, choose light layers. A linen co-ord set feels cool and airy, and the long trousers and sleeves give you sun protection and coverage in one. Pair with flat sandals or trainers and a straw or raffia tote. Our linen suits are made for exactly this kind of day.

If you prefer a dress, a maxi style with sleeves works well. A crochet dress with a lining is lovely for a beach club lunch; throw a light knit over it once the sun goes down.

Evenings: bring a layer

This is where most visitors get it wrong. Once the sun sets, a sleeveless dress feels cold, especially at outdoor terraces and on the water. Pack something you can throw on top: a knitted cape, a light coat or a soft knit cardigan. A knitted cape is particularly useful because it goes over any outfit without crushing it. Browse our outerwear and capes.

Desert safaris and outdoor dinners

The desert can be surprisingly cold at night. Wear a soft knit suit or full-length trousers with a warm top, closed shoes you do not mind getting sandy, and bring a cape or scarf. A smooth, soft co-ord set is comfortable for the car journey and warm enough once you arrive.

Dinners, weddings and nights out

Dubai restaurants and hotels are dressy. For dinner, a knit co-ord set in a rich colour or a long knit dress looks polished and copes well with air conditioning. Our knit suits and knit co-ord sets pack easily and do not need much fuss on arrival. If you are attending a wedding in Dubai, a cape set or faux fur detail adds occasion while keeping you warm in a cool ballroom.

Finish with a strap heel and a small structured bag. If you will be walking between venues, pack a pair of flats.

A simple Dubai winter packing list

  • Two or three co-ord sets: one linen for daytime, one knit for evenings.
  • A maxi dress with sleeves for lunches and the beach club.
  • A knitted cape or light coat for evenings and the desert.
  • A scarf: for mosques, sun and cool evenings.
  • Flat sandals, closed shoes and one pair of heels.
  • A tote for the day and a small bag for the evening.
  • Sunglasses and sun protection; the sun is strong even in winter.

Frequently asked questions

Is it cold in Dubai in winter?

Days are usually warm and sunny, but evenings are cooler and the desert can be cold at night. Pack at least one warm layer such as a knitted cape, coat or knit set.

Can I wear sleeveless tops in Dubai?

Sleeveless tops are fine at hotels, beaches and many restaurants, but cover your shoulders and knees in malls, souks and traditional areas. A light layer or cape in your bag solves this.

What should I wear to a desert safari in winter?

Full-length trousers, a warm top or knit set, closed shoes and a scarf. Temperatures drop quickly after sunset.

What should I wear to dinner in Dubai?

Dress smartly: a knit co-ord set, a long dress or a cape set with heels. Bring a layer, as restaurants are strongly air-conditioned.

We deliver from Pakistan to the UK, UAE and USA. International orders are delivered in 5-12 working days and may be subject to customs depending on your country's regulations; within Pakistan, delivery takes 2-4 working days. See Delivery Information for full details.