Abu Dhabi Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Abu Dhabi.
Climate overview of Abu Dhabi
The city of Abu Dhabi was founded in the third century BC and is located within the United Arab Emirates. It is, however, the capital of the country. Abu Dhabi is slightly more conservative and traditional than Dubai, but it also began a huge rise as a tourist destination several years ago.
Abu Dhabi has a warm desert climate. You can expect warm weather year-round. The period from April to September is considered hot to very hot. The temperature in the desert around Abu Dhabi is even higher, and sandstorms can occur during this period. The other months of the year are relatively cooler, and you may sometimes encounter fog banks. Precipitation is almost exclusively limited to the winter period, which in Abu Dhabi runs from November through April.
Abu Dhabi Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Abu Dhabi — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Abu Dhabi
Visitors to Abu Dhabi can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very hot 40°C (104°F) in August to a comfortable 24°C (75°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 32°C (90°F) in August to around 17°C (63°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi experiences desert-like conditions in terms of precipitation with almost no rainfall, generally receiving 49 mm (1.9 in) annually. Precipitation levels in Abu Dhabi remain relatively steady throughout the year. March has the most rain, with 13 mm (0.5 in) over 3 days. In the driest month June, this drops slightly to 0.1 mm (0 in), making the city's climate fairly predictable. For more details, please visit our Abu Dhabi Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi offers a pleasant mix of sunny and slightly overcast days. The difference in sunshine hours between May (11.4 hours daily) and February (7.7 hours daily) provides a bit of variety for visitors and residents.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Water Temperature in Abu Dhabi
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 20°C (68°F) in February to 34°C (93°F) in August.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Abu Dhabi by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Abu Dhabi.
The city experiences its highest humidity in January, reaching 68%. In May, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 55%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Abu Dhabi
Make the most of the clear weather, but remember to protect yourself from the sun and stay well-hydrated. Ready to plan your travels but need destination ideas? Our smart tool recommends places based on the climate conditions you prefer. Start planning with our destination weather tool.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Abu Dhabi
What is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi?
January, February, March and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Abu Dhabi. In contrast, May, June, July, August, September and October tend to have less optimal conditions. Abu Dhabi has a distinct dry season from January to December.
What temperatures can I expect in Abu Dhabi?
Daytime highs range from 24°C (75°F) in January to 40°C (104°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 17°C (63°F) to 32°C (90°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Abu Dhabi get?
Annual rainfall is around 49 mm (1.9 in). March is the wettest month with 13 mm (0.5 in), while June is the driest with 0.1 mm (0 in).
How sunny is Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi receives around 3,457 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 342 hours, while February is the cloudiest with just 232 hours. Overall, Abu Dhabi enjoys abundant sunshine.
Abu Dhabi 3-Day Forecast
Abu Dhabi 3-Day Forecast
Abu Dhabi on the map
Abu Dhabi is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
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