Weather in Dubai in October

How October compares

October is the 6th warmest month of the year in Dubai and ranks 1st of 134 destinations we compare for October - see where else is hot in October. Within United Arab Emirates it is 1st of 2 (United Arab Emirates in October). Against London's average high of 14.6°C in October, Dubai is 21.8°C warmer by day and 14.5°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in October

The typical October day in Dubai peaks at 36.4°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 38.9°C or more. About 100% of days top 25°C and almost every pass 30°C. Nights average 22.9°C; one night in ten drops to 20.3°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest October day here reached 41.0°C (2005-10-12) and the coldest night 15.3°C (1996-10-24).

Rain in October

Dry (3 rainy days or fewer): about 0 days with 1 mm or more, 1 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest October was 1997 with 15 mm, the driest 1991 with 0 mm. Humidity averages 57%.

Sea temperature in October

The sea averages 31.0°C - warm enough to swim (22°c+). Depending on the year it ranges from 30.4°C to 31.7°C. For the warmest sea here, come in August (33.4°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 10.5 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 11.4 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 06:17 and sets about 17:52 local time in mid-October. Average cloud cover is 8%.

Is October a good time to visit Dubai?

It is a reasonable choice: hot days - though the heat can be intense at midday. The best months for Dubai on our scoring are November, December, February; months averaging 25°C or more: Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec.

Plan your day around the heat

October is not a mild-weather option in Dubai. The average high of 36.4°C is well above London's 14.6°C, so pack for hot weather rather than a warmer version of a British autumn. The hottest days can reach 38.9°C or more, making a shaded or indoor break sensible around midday. Keep longer walks for the morning or evening, wear loose, lightweight clothing and carry water. Humidity averages 57%, so the heat may feel less comfortable than the temperature alone suggests. This month suits travellers happy to slow down during the hottest part of the day; it is less suitable if your ideal trip involves being on foot outdoors throughout the afternoon.

Warm swimming, little rain and plenty of sun

The sea averages 31°C, making October a good fit if you dislike a chilly swim, although the water will offer limited cooling from the air. Its usual range of 30°C to 32°C points to consistently warm swimming conditions. Rain is unlikely to dictate your plans, with about 0 rainy days, but that is not a guarantee of completely dry weather. Around 10.5 hours of sunshine within 11.4 hours of daylight leaves plenty of scope for outdoor time without staying out at midday. Bring sun protection and choose somewhere with easy access to shade. The appeal is dependable warmth; the compromise is managing sun and heat rather than avoiding showers.