Visiting Dubai in the summer, especially in June, means preparing for intense heat, dazzling sunshine, and a city built for both luxury and comfort. While the temperatures can be challenging — regularly reaching over 40°C (104°F) — with the right approach, Dubai in June can still be an incredible experience.
Whether you’re exploring world-class shopping malls, dining at rooftop restaurants, or relaxing at your hotel, these practical and lesser-known tips will help you stay cool, comfortable, and ready to enjoy everything Dubai has to offer.
1. Time Your Day Around the Heat
Dubai’s summer days are hot all around, with temperatures often above 30°C even in the mornings and evenings. However, the heat intensifies sharply between midday and late afternoon, often exceeding 40°C. For this reason, it’s best to plan outdoor activities early in the morning or after sunset, when it’s relatively cooler and more comfortable.
The mornings, though warm, tend to be less oppressive and offer more pleasant conditions for walking or sightseeing. Evenings bring some relief as the sun sets, making it easier to enjoy outdoor dining, markets, or strolls along the beach promenade.
During the hottest hours—from roughly noon to 4pm—it’s wise to stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces such as Dubai’s extensive malls, museums, or cafés. These places not only offer a cool escape but also plenty of entertainment and dining options.
Many desert tours and outdoor experiences adjust their schedules to start later in the afternoon or early evening, allowing visitors to avoid the peak heat. By planning your day to avoid the afternoon blaze, you can still enjoy Dubai comfortably despite the summer heat.
2. Dress the Right Way
It’s not just about wearing light clothes—it’s about choosing the right fabrics. Linen and 100% cotton are your best bets because they’re breathable and help sweat evaporate, keeping you cooler. Avoid polyester or thick denim, as they trap heat and don’t allow your skin to breathe.
Opt for light colours that reflect the sun rather than absorbing it. Whites, pastels, and other pale shades will make a noticeable difference in how hot you feel.
If you want to blend in with local culture and stay cool, flowing loose clothing works perfectly. It allows air to circulate around your body, which helps prevent overheating while keeping you comfortable throughout the day.
3. Carry a Lightweight Cotton Towel
A well-known secret among travellers in hot climates across Asia and the Middle East is to carry a small, thin cotton towel. These towels are lightweight and easy to pack, making them ideal for long days exploring under the sun. You can drape the towel around your neck or shoulders to provide instant relief from the heat.
One of the best uses is to lightly wet the towel with cool water. As the water evaporates, it creates a natural cooling effect that helps lower your body temperature without needing any gadgets. Even if you don’t have water handy, the towel is great for discreetly dabbing away sweat to keep you feeling fresh and comfortable throughout the day.
Cotton towels are also much gentler on your skin compared to synthetic materials and won’t cause irritation when used frequently. They’re easy to rinse out and dry quickly in the heat, making them reusable all day long.
This simple tool can make a big difference in managing heat stress while sightseeing, walking around markets, or waiting for transport.
4. Don’t Just Drink Water — Add Electrolytes
Staying hydrated in Dubai’s heat is essential, but drinking plain water isn’t always enough. When you sweat, your body loses not only water but also vital salts and minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium. These electrolytes are crucial for maintaining your body’s fluid balance and muscle function.
To prevent dehydration symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, or muscle cramps, it’s a good idea to supplement your water intake with electrolytes. Packing some electrolyte powder or tablets in your bag allows you to easily add them to your water once or twice a day. Popular brands like Nuun or Dioralyte are widely trusted for this purpose.
If you’re already in Dubai, you can find electrolyte sachets at most pharmacies or supermarkets, making it convenient to restock. This simple addition to your hydration routine helps your body stay balanced and energized, especially if you’re doing a lot of walking or spending extended periods outdoors.
5. Cooling Wipes and Menthol Tricks
Cooling wipes are a simple but effective way to quickly freshen up during a hot day in Dubai. They’re lightweight, portable, and perfect for wiping away sweat and grime when you don’t have access to a shower or restroom. Many travellers keep a pack handy in their bag or car for an instant cool-down.
For an added burst of cooling sensation, you can try applying a tiny amount of mentholated balm—like white Tiger Balm or similar—on pulse points such as your neck, wrists, or behind your ears. The menthol creates a cooling effect on your skin, helping to reduce that sticky, uncomfortable feeling caused by heat and humidity.
However, use menthol balms sparingly. Applying too much can result in a strong medicinal smell that might be off-putting in social situations. A small dab goes a long way, giving you a refreshing lift without overpowering scent.
6. Use Powder to Prevent Heat Rash
Hot and humid weather, especially near the coast, often leads to heat rash—an uncomfortable skin irritation caused by sweat and friction. This can be particularly common in areas like between your thighs, under your arms, or on your feet, where skin tends to rub together.
To prevent heat rash and the irritation that comes with it, a light dusting of talc-free body powder can make a big difference. Powders help absorb excess moisture and reduce friction, keeping your skin dry and comfortable throughout the day.
One popular choice among travellers in hot climates is Snake Brand Prickly Heat Powder. It’s widely used across Asia and the Middle East because it’s effective at soothing irritated skin and preventing rashes. You can find similar powders in Dubai’s pharmacies or supermarkets, so it’s easy to stock up while you’re there.
7. Eat Light, Eat Fresh
Heavy, rich meals can leave you feeling sluggish and overheated, especially in Dubai’s intense summer heat. Instead, opt for lighter dishes that are easy to digest and help keep you hydrated. Salads like fattoush and tabbouleh, which are popular in the region, combine fresh vegetables and herbs with zesty dressings, making them both refreshing and nourishing.
Local fruits such as watermelon, pomegranate, and cucumbers are excellent choices as they are naturally high in water content and packed with electrolytes. These fruits act as nature’s way of keeping you cool and replenishing lost fluids and minerals.
Dubai is also famous for its fresh fruit juices and smoothies, widely available from street vendors, cafés, and markets. Sampling these natural, hydrating beverages not only quenches your thirst but also provides a delicious way to beat the heat throughout the day.
8. Dip Your Wrists in Cold Water at Cafés
One of the fastest and simplest ways to cool down your body temperature is by using cold water on pulse points like your wrists or neck. These areas have blood vessels close to the skin, so cooling them helps lower your overall body heat more quickly.
When you take a break at a café or restaurant in Dubai, order a glass of ice water. Rather than just drinking it, briefly dip your wrists into the cold water. This simple action can provide an immediate cooling effect that helps you feel refreshed before heading back out into the heat.
This method is discreet, requires no special equipment, and can be done anytime you have access to cold water. It’s a surprisingly effective trick that can keep you comfortable during long days of sightseeing or errands.
9. Make the Most of Shaded & Air-Conditioned Routes
Dubai’s city planners have thoughtfully designed many popular areas with shaded walkways and covered pedestrian paths to help residents and visitors cope with the intense heat. Areas like Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina are particularly well-equipped with shaded or air-conditioned routes that connect major attractions, malls, and transport hubs.
When exploring the city, it’s smart to plan your routes to take advantage of these covered pathways as much as possible. By moving between air-conditioned malls, metro stations, and shaded streets, you can minimise your exposure to direct sunlight and stay cooler throughout your day.
Save longer outdoor walks for early mornings or later evenings when temperatures dip slightly, and use the city’s infrastructure to keep comfortable during the peak heat hours. This strategy not only helps with heat management but also allows you to explore the city without feeling drained by the sun.
10. Where to Stay
Choosing the right accommodation can significantly impact how well you cope with Dubai’s heat. Properties with excellent pool facilities offer a perfect way to cool down without having to leave your accommodation. Look for places that also provide shaded outdoor spaces, such as verandas, balconies, or gardens, where you can relax comfortably out of the sun.
Proximity is another important factor. Staying close to air-conditioned shopping centres, cafés, and key attractions means you can easily escape the heat when needed, making your day-to-day exploring much more enjoyable.
At Zennova Holidays, we specialise in connecting travellers with carefully selected holiday rentals in Dubai that prioritise comfort and convenience. Whether you want a modern apartment in the heart of the city or a villa with a private pool, we ensure your stay is as cool and hassle-free as possible.
Planning Your Visit to Dubai This Summer?
Dubai’s summer months—June, July, and August—bring intense heat but also offer unique experiences and quieter tourist spots. If you’re planning to visit during this time, it’s helpful to check out our detailed guides for June, July, and August. Each one covers what to expect from the weather, what to wear, and how to enjoy Dubai despite the summer heat.
