Summer in Dubai Comes to a Close
It’s that time of year again—summer in Dubai is officially winding down. This summer has been particularly challenging, with relentless heat and humidity that feels almost unbearable, especially for those of us accustomed to the cooler climates of Northern Europe!
Relief is on the horizon as we approach the official end of summer on Sunday, September 22. According to the Emirates Astronomy Centre in Abu Dhabi, the autumn equinox will occur this Sunday at precisely 4:44 PM in the United Arab Emirates. For those hoping to catch the sunset signaling the start of autumn, it will take place at 6:19 PM, according to the official Maghrib prayer timings. This event marks the moment when day and night will be of equal length, leading to shorter daylight hours ahead.
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As we bid farewell to summer, it’s important to note that while the season may officially end, Dubai will continue to experience high temperatures for some time. This is due to the ongoing 40-day transitional period that follows the peak summer heat, which is traditionally marked by the appearance of the Suhail Star at the end of August.
This year, the summer solstice was observed earlier than usual, granting us the longest day of 2024 on Thursday, June 20, which lasted an impressive 13 hours and 48 minutes. However, with the arrival of the autumn equinox, we can expect day and night to finally balance out.
During the scorching summer months, many outdoor attractions in Dubai close their doors to the heat. But as summer fades away, these attractions—along with beach clubs, outdoor brunches, and al fresco dining options—are set to reopen, inviting locals and tourists alike to enjoy the cooler weather.
Exciting Events to Look Forward to as Summer Ends
Global Village Returns Soon
Dubai is known for its vibrant attractions that cater to a variety of interests, and one of the most anticipated events is the reopening of Global Village. This beloved destination will return on Wednesday, October 16, bringing with it another season filled with fun, food, and shopping. In addition to Global Village, attractions like the Miracle Garden, Garden Glow, and the Safari Park are also expected to reopen soon. While the exact reopening dates for some attractions are yet to be announced, stay tuned for updates!
J1 Beach Set to Open in October
As the intense summer heat subsides, a new beachfront destination is on the horizon. J1 Beach is scheduled to open in October, featuring 13 exciting new licensed fine-dining restaurants and beach clubs. Notable openings include Dubai’s first private members beach club, Chou Chou, as well as Gigi Rigolatto and Ninive Beach, promising an upscale experience for beachgoers.
Embrace Al Fresco Dining Again
With the arrival of cooler temperatures, al fresco dining is making a much-anticipated comeback across Dubai. There’s something truly delightful about enjoying a meal outdoors, soaking in the views while basking in the pleasant sunshine. For a top-notch dining experience, consider visiting Cala Vista, an Italian spot renowned for its stunning views of the Burj Al Arab, which is set to reopen for the al fresco season on Thursday, September 19. For a comprehensive list of outdoor restaurants in Dubai, including those with breathtaking Burj Khalifa views, be sure to check out our detailed guide.
Brunch Season is Back!
Lastly, one of the most exciting aspects of the season’s change is the return of brunch! With live entertainment, vibrant atmospheres, and delectable bites, this is the perfect opportunity to gather your friends and enjoy a leisurely day filled with laughter and great food. We have curated an extensive list of brunch spots to suit all budgets, ensuring you won’t miss out on this social highlight.
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