Dubai in November

By Dom Bewley
Published: July 18, 2024
abu dhabi day trip

Head to Dubai in November? A good choice, friend. Just the right side of Dubai's intense summer period, it's the perfect time to see and do everything you want. Check out our guide to Dubai in November, and see what's on offer!

Including:

  • Dubai weather in November
  • Dubai's water parks
  • Swashbuckling sea tours
  • Ferrari World
  • Dubai's best eats
  • and more!
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Dubai in November: What to Expect

For the unprepared, Dubai's summer can seem to drag on for about half the year. And unlike summers you may have experienced, Dubai's is different. Highs of 105°F are common during peak heat, so you might want to give a summer vacation a miss.

However, November is when things really start to cool down. On average, you can expect highs of around 87°F and lows of around 68°F. So, if you're looking to pleasantly sizzle rather than catch fire, November might be the perfect time of year in Dubai!

During the day, you'll want to dress light in tees, summer dresses, shorts, and sandals. But in the evenings, you may want to change into light jackets, long-sleeved shirts, jeans, and proper shoes. November is a 'best of both' month, giving you the sun you want as well as the cool evenings to unwind and sleep. Plus, Dubai's weather is damn sure to be better than wherever you live during late autumn/early winter!

Dubai in November: What to Do

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Make a splash at Dubai's water parks

On particularly hot days, you'll want to make the most of the autumn sun. And where better to soak up some rays and stay cool at the same time than at a water park? Dubai has a handful of the watery wonders, but we recommend you check out Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm. There, you'll find plenty of rides that cater to both the young and old. Aquaconda throws you down a head-spinning snake of a ride, with twists and turns around every scaly corner. There's the death-defying Leap of Faith, which drops you off a near-sheer cliff of a jump, straight into a tunnel surrounded by sharks! And after all that excitement and more, they even have their own beach where you can relax or hop in a kayak!

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If you're planning a family vacation and want to treat the kids, LEGOLAND® Water Park caters to them especially, with 20 LEGO®-themed rides featuring some recognizable faces from the building-block franchise. The Joker Soaker pits you against Batman's worst enemy as you splash around his playground. And at LEGO® Slide Racers, you'll board your mat and bomb your way down this white knuckle ride. Thrills, chills, and hopefully, no spills await you.

It may sound strange, but water parks are some of the best things to do on a warm November day in Dubai.

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Live like a pirate with the Black Pearl sightseeing cruise!

Sightseeing is fun and all, but why not add a little spice to your tour of Dubai's best bits? By spice, we mean spiced rum, and that can only mean one thing. A tour courtesy of Captain Jack Sparrow from Pirates of the Caribbean!

With his unsteady hand around the wheel, you'll sail past Dubai Creek Harbour and on to Mohamed Bin Rashid. Prepare your cameras because you'll then pass the tallest building on Earth, the Burj Khalifa. You can even ask the captain himself to take a selfie if he's not imbibed too much.

All through the journey, the "worst pirate you've ever heard of" will comically remark on your surroundings, giving you insight into the history of the landmarks. He'll likely regale you with his escapades while he's at it, so prepare for some tall tales!

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Speedy Thrills at Ferrari World

On a warm November day, what better way to appreciate the sun with the wind running through your hair? Or, better yet, crashing into your face and throwing you back in your seat at 150mph? Welcome to Ferrari World, home to the world's fastest rollercoaster.

Only the bravest dare test themselves on Formula Rossa. To replicate the feeling of driving an F1 car, you'll be propelled 150mph in just under 5 seconds. At that speed, you'll feel the equivalent of 5Gs of force, which isn't far off jet fighter pilots. Can you take the Gs? Only one way to find out.

There are plenty of other rides to try while you're there, so if you have a passing interest in fast cars or simply want to ride some of the most white-knuckle rides on the planet, give it a go.

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Exciting desert tours

If you want to take your white-knuckle adventures to Dubai's dunes, why not try a desert tour? Whether you want to try your hand at quad-biking, driving a dune buggy, riding a camel, or a relaxing BBQ evening, you've got plenty of options.

No matter which you'll choose, you can expect 5-star service. A plush 4x4 will pick you up from your hotel and take you out of the city. And, when the experience is over, they'll bring you right back.

The perfect way to avoid all the hassle of booking cabs or planning public transport routes, our desert tours ensure you get to see stunning sights and thrilling experiences without the headache!

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Grab some grub

And finally, after all the excitement of your trip, you might be feeling pretty hungry. Thankfully, Dubai has tons of restaurants that cater to every culinary desire under the sun. But who wants to click links when they can read our recommendations?

For South American delights, try Coya. This Peruvian restaurant, which also borrows generously from Spanish and far Eastern cuisine, is well known around Dubai as one of the best in town. It's also on the expensive side, so bear that in mind.

For French food and a lively evening atmosphere, hit up Bagatelle. A great menu combined with live music after dark makes it the perfect nighttime visit.

Or, if all-you-can-eat brunch sounds too good to pass up, check out Bubbalicious. Located in the Marriott's Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, you'll be free to gorge on lobster, curry, and countless other world dishes.

And that's our guide to Dubai in November! Looking to add to your itinerary? Check out Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, you can see all of Dubai's best bits when and how you want.

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Dubai in February

Planning a trip to Dubai? If you're wondering when's a good time to visit, try February. There are no better places to escape the winter chill than the UAE's own desert oasis. Need convincing? Check out our guide to Dubai in February and see for yourself! Including: Seasonal weather Refreshing waterpark adventures Secret skiing Ice skating shenanigans The best views in the city and more! Dubai in February: What to Expect For those of your visiting from colder climates, February might be the perfect month to visit Dubai. You can expect highs of around 82°F and lows of around 64°F. So it's still warm, because of course it is, but at least the evenings will be cooler, and day temperatures are a little more temperate. Shorts, tees, and summer dresses are your best bets, and make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen to protect that pasty complexion. Dubai in February: What to Do Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm On the warmer days, there's nothing stopping you from channeling your inner summer child and seeking the cooling thrills of a waterpark. And why settle for less when you can have the best? Simply head to the grand Atlantis The Palm, and enter the wonderful watery world of Aquaventure Waterpark! With rides such as the plummeting Leap of Faith, which drops you into a massive tube surrounded by exotic aquatic life, even adrenaline junkies are catered to! Or, if heights aren't your things, test your mettle at The Rapids, which puts you on a raft battling choppy waters for a mile. Even kids will get their fix thanks to the Splasher's Children's Play Area, which features tons of mini slides, climbing frames, and even tipping buckets, so they won't miss out on all the fun. It might sound strange, but splashing up a storm at a waterpark is definitely one of the best things to do in Dubai in February. Ski Dubai If - for some reason - the heat has you missing the winter chills back home, head to the slopes for some ski action. Yes, even in this desert oasis, you'll find cool arctic chills. You don't even have to climb a nearby mountain, simply head over to Ski Dubai and find a winter wonderland you'll not want to miss. Head indoors, and you'll be stunned to discover lovingly-recreated ski slopes where you can strut your stuff. In an effort to ensure genuine authenticity, you can even take a ski lift up to the top of the slopes, and every so often, a parade of penguins will grind proceedings to a halt in the cutest way possible. If you're a slope pro, there's no need to lug all your equipment on the plane ride over - all your skis, jackets, and boots will be provided by Ski Dubai when you enter. And for all your non-pros, they've got you covered too. Instructors are on hand to guide even the greenest of slope-goers. Dubai Ice Rink Speaking of missing the joys of winter, after wallowing in Dubai's sun and heat, you might be missing another mainstay of the chillier months - ice skating. But never fear, February traveler, because Dubai even has an Olympic-sized ice rink. You'll find it in the heart of Dubai Mall, and it's the perfect place to bust some moves, or at least try to stay upright. With skate hire on-site, safety marshalls on hand, and the ice being resurfaced every 2 hours, you'll enjoy a smooth and satisfying skate session. Impress the other skaters by attempting to go backward - it's the only way to get their respect. AIN Dubai Dubai is a stunning city; that's just a warm, hard fact. The glistening of sunkissed waters, the beautiful reflective towers, and the horizon-spanning beaches are absolutely stunning. Seeing it from the ground is one thing, but the best way to see it all at once is up in the sky. So, why not ascend to the heavens and look upon the city on the world's tallest observation wheel? That's what you'll get at AIN Dubai because no one does it bigger or better than Abu Dhabi! Towering above the likes of The London Eye, AIN Dubai stretches up to over 820ft off the ground. So why not enter one of its 48 luxurious, air-conditioned cabins, get your cameras/phones at the ready, and snap away at some of the best views in the world? Keep an eye out for the likes of the Palm Jumeirah, Marina Beach, the Burj al Arab, and the striking Burj Khalifa in the distance. At The Top - Burj Khalifa Speaking of getting high, why not ascend the aforementioned Burj Khalifa? If you thought AIN Dubai was high, wait until you see this bad boy. This isn't just any old large building; it's the largest building on the planet. At over 2,700ft, how will a measly human like you scale such a behemoth? Well, you'll start by entering a double-decker elevator and shooting up at over 10 meters per second. Thanks to the in-elevator media displays, even at those speeds, you'll have some time to learn about Dubai's and Burj Khalifa's history. Then, when you reach the top, you'll find telescopes with full HD cameras and high zoom, offering a unique, interactive way to learn about the Dubai landmarks and sights you'll see. Further up, Level 125, you'll reach the viewing deck, where you can look out over the city and take as many photos of the little ant people as you like. Ambassadors are also dotted about the deck, and they'll fill you in on the history and trivia about the Burj Khalifa and Dubai skyline, too. And that was our guide to Dubai in February! Need help planning the rest of your vacation? Check out Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, you can see all of Dubai's best bits when and how you want. We cover the very best Dubai attractions, so if you want all of the fun without all the fuss, we've got you covered.
Dom Bewley
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Shopping Malls in Dubai

If Paris is the city of love and New York is the city that never sleeps...could Dubai be the city of...shopping? Maybe you’ve always wondered how many shopping malls are in Dubai? Already over 70, but it’s almost too hard to count since new and yet more breath-taking ones are being added all the time. From unique souvenirs to high-end fashion, Dubai offers visitors some of the best shopping in the world. Yet that’s not all the Dubai malls are about. As summer temperatures in the UAE soar as high as 49 degrees, everyone prefers to be indoors, so the huge climate-controlled malls provide communal spaces where people gather to meet, stroll or socialise. Plus, as the fourth most-visited city in the world Dubai is keen to offer reasons to travel! The world’s tallest building, cinemas, ski slopes, light shows and a giant aquarium...you’ll find it all in the mega-malls that are more like mini cities than merely shopping centres. Too much to take in? Let us help. Whether you’re after luxury goods, bargains or pretty much any kind of entertainment, join us on a quick tour of what’s on offer in the best shopping malls in Dubai. What to buy in Dubai Credit cards at the ready! But, before we plunge in, let’s take a look at some of the best buys. Pick up perfume, pashminas and Persian carpets and rugs. Get your hands on glittering gold and jewellery and unique house-wares like Asian lanterns and coffee pots. Stock up on spices, dates and chocolate made from camels’ (not cows’) milk!And of course you’ll find fashion for every taste and budget - from H&M, Zara and GAP to Chanel, Dior or Louis Vuitton. For the best discounts check out the outlet malls or hit the annual shopping festivals which have become attractions in themselves. Dubai Summer Surprises, a nine week long summer shopping extravaganza starts in July. Twice a year, in spring and autumn, the Gulf Information Technology (GITEX) festival delivers huge discounts on phones, laptops, TVs and home appliances. But best known is the Dubai Shopping Festival in January, accompanied by a carnival with outdoor entertainment. The shops are open until midnight and offer not only huge discounts but some incredible giveaways - we’re talking cash, gold, Bentley cars and apartments! Mind-blown? Let’s not delay any longer - it’s time to hit the shops at... Dubai Mall Renowned as the world’s biggest shopping mall, Dubai Mall covers 12 million square feet - that’s more than 200 soccer pitches! So you can easily spend a day amongst its 1,200 shops, stalls and boutiques offering everything from off-the-catwalk fashion to traditional Arabic art and crafts. At its heart, a fabulous four-story waterfall gives a fresh feel so you won’t get hot and sweaty chasing down bargains at flagship stores including Alexander McQueen, Gucci, Valentino, Chanel and Ralph Lauren. Look out for luxury footwear from Louboutin, Fendi and Dior. Alongside high street names including Zara and H&M and department stores Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdales, connoisseurs of couture will find luxury labels at Fashion Avenue just one of the mall’s ‘neighbourhoods’. And if shopping is still not enough, the mall boasts over 200 international dining options and amazing leisure attractions for the whole family. Glide on the ice at the Olympic-sized ice rink or meet underwater friends at the Dubai Aquarium. When the sun goes down, Dubai Mall lights up. Be sure to stick around for the famous fountain display that takes place each night, accompanied by music. And of course, since it’s right next door, you can also catch the light show displays at the awe-inspiring Burj Khalifa. Mall of the Emirates Located near the Sheikh Zayed Road in the Al Barsha district, this retail paradise delivers another 630 stores, alongside 100 restaurants and cafes and even an indoor ski slope! Stay cool skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing or meeting the penguins at the world-famous Ski Dubai, then explore luxury brands in the even cooler Fashion Dome. Dig Kate Spade, DKNY - and don’t forget the high-tech Apple boutique. Browse high street names like Marks & Spencer, Debenhams and Forever 21, as well as quirky independent boutiques and high-end department stores including Harvey Nichols.Once you’ve shopped fit to drop, the experiences are still only just beginning. Catch some culture at art galleries and VOX cinemas, discover the Dreamscape VR experience and let the kids loose in the Magic Planet play and entertainment centre. Ibn Battuta Mall Time for another ‘largest’ - this time the world’s largest ‘themed’ mall, which takes you on a 270-shop journey around the globe, in dedication to its namesake, medieval explorer Ibn Battuta. The six themed areas are based on Battuta’s travels to Egypt, India, China, Persia, Tunisia and Andalucia, with decor inspired by the art and culture of those regions. Look out for elaborate tiling, an enormous golden elephant and high ceilings designed to feel like blue skies. Needless to say, the shopping is equally impressive, majoring on fashion, lifestyle and sports stores, many with regular in-store promotions. Mercato Mall Mamma mia! Step inside the Mercato Mall and you might feel you’re in Italy rather than the MENA regions. Mercato is, of course, Italian for ‘market’ and this soaring metropolis of shops is designed in the style of a Renaissance-era Italian village, complete with cobbled streets and welcoming piazzas where people gather. The shops are right up to date however, with a wide selection of internationally recognisable mid-market names such as Gap, Mango, Bershka, H&M, Laura Ashley and Hallmark. There’s even a pet store - and a wide selection of places to eat and drink. For the true taste of the Emirates, drop into the Arabian tea house for tasty local bites and a cup of strong karak chai. Meanwhile, kids can let off steam at indoor play area, Fun City. Wafi Mall Your jaw is on the floor before you’ve even stepped inside at Wafi Mall, with a facade of obelisks, towering Egyptian statues and a central pyramid giving more than a clue to the decorative inspiration. 300 stores from a host of international labels are set amongst more statues, ancient scripts and colourful mosaics - as well as more contemporary art. Wafi is home to several galleries offering varied exhibitions of East and Western art, from old masters to modern painting, sculpture, photography and installations.Back at the sharp end, popular stores include Matalan and Marks & Spencer but you’ll also find local brands and Middle Eastern fashion boutiques selling beautifully decorated kandoras and abayas (Arabic dress for men and women).Wafi Mall is known for its light and sound shows in the evening and its mammoth Christmas tree decorations in December, so prepare to be dazzled! Festival City Mall This temple of fashion and fun sits on the banks of Dubai Creek, with views across the water to downtown Dubai. 250 stores include the Robinson’s department store, packed with luxury brands. Other popular outlets include Beverley Hills Polo Club, DKNY, Mango, Zara, Toys R Us - and Dubai’s first (enormous) IKEA furniture store. There are plenty of places to eat too; hop aboard an abra (traditional small ferry) to reach one of the waterfront restaurants or drop by the Cheesecake Factory or the Sugar Factory for deliciously Instagrammable desserts. In the cooler months or in the evening, stroll along the 6.4km waterfront Dubai Water Canal - and take in the view of the city’s shimmering skyline from one of 5 pedestrian bridges. Whatever you do, don’t miss the spectacular IMAGINE laser, light and fountain show in Festival Bay. City Centre Mirdif The sky’s the limit (well nearly) at City Centre Mirdif - with indoor skydiving venue i-Fly just one of the entertainment options available. Known for its eco-credentials, this retail paradise is located in the family-friendly neighbourhood of Mirdif so has lots of fun on offer. Little Explorers is a play centre combining education and entertainment, whilst there’s also a 12-lane bowling alley for competitive families. Oh and did we mention almost 500 stores?Browse beautiful styles from contemporary Arab fashion designers at United Designers and Yoshii Boutique or check out popular stores including Hamleys, Decathlon, Pottery Barn and Debenhams. Dubai Marina Mall Beside the sparkling marina, this is a mall that’s a little less ‘extra’. Whilst it still has its share of luxury brands, the emphasis is on more affordable high-street fashion and beauty brands in a relaxed environment. Billabong, Monsoon, River Island and H&M are just some of the popular names. There are plenty of dining options too. Families enjoy the jungle vibes at the Rainforest Cafe, while Pier 7 features seven exciting foodie concepts, all with waterfront seating. Dubai Outlet Mall We’re almost shopped out but not before we mention the behemoth of bargains that is the Dubai Outlet Mall, well worth the 40-minute drive from downtown. Year long sales and generous discounts tempt those looking for electronics, perfumes and designer names like Diane von Furstenberg, Burberry, Marc Jacobs, Adidas, Coach and Fred Perry. Visit on a Monday for further discounts of up to 50% at selected stores. We hope that’s given you more than a glimpse of the good deals to be had in the marvellous malls of Dubai. And you’ll always be sure of a good deal more adventure for less, with Go City. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for all the info and top tips, wherever your adventures take you.
Jo Cooke

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