The winter season in Dubai has officially entered its second phase, ushering in nearly a month of cooler temperatures for residents and visitors alike. According to Ibrahim Al-Jarwan, the Board Chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Society, we have now stepped into a period known as Al-Shabt. This unique phase began on Wednesday, January 15, and will continue until Monday, February 10. Just as moon sightings guide the determination of public holidays, they also serve as indicators of the changing seasons in the UAE. During this period, daytime temperatures can drop to a pleasant 22°C, making it the perfect time to explore outdoor activities and enjoy the milder weather ahead.
Discover a Desert Café
Experiencing a desert café where you can sip on specialty coffee amidst stunning dunes and majestic mountains is a rare treat. Now is the ideal time to visit some of the charming pop-ups across the UAE. One standout location is Al Marmoon Heritage Village, which offers a delightful ambiance. If you’re in the mood for an iced coffee or perhaps a matcha latte while gazing at picturesque dunes, Hidden Café is the place to be. Aim to visit around sunset to capture breathtaking photos for your Instagram feed. And don’t miss out on their marshmallow fire pit experience—it’s truly worth it!
Hours: Sun-Thu 4pm-1am, Fri-Sat 4pm-2am. Location: Fort Lisal, Al Marmoom. Contact: @hidden_dubai (050 152 3864).
Take an Abra Ride and Explore Old Dubai
Amidst Dubai’s towering skyscrapers, luxurious hotels, and fast cars, it’s easy to overlook the city’s humble beginnings as a fishing village. To reconnect with this rich heritage, venture to Old Dubai. Ditch the speedboats and hop on a traditional abra for an enchanting ride across the Creek. As the gentle breeze sweeps through your hair, you’ll be transported to a historic part of the city that beautifully juxtaposes modernity and tradition.
Price: From Dhs 2 (per ride). Open daily from 7am to 12am. Location: Baniyas Road, Deira Old Souk Abra Station. For more info: rta.com (800 9090).
Stroll Along the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk
Long-time residents of Dubai often admit that they don’t take enough time to walk and enjoy the outdoors. The 11km Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk presents a fantastic opportunity to get moving. This scenic seaside path, measuring six meters wide, allows you to feel the refreshing sea breeze as you take in the luxurious hotels on one side and the vast ocean on the other. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes if you plan on jogging!
Free access. Open daily 24/7.
Enjoy a Drink at an Outdoor Bar
Dubai boasts an impressive array of outdoor bars and beach clubs where you can soak up the vibrant atmosphere and bask in the sun. One of our top recommendations is Tagomago, a newcomer that perfectly captures the essence of Dubai’s beach bar scene. Located on the Palm, this lighthouse-shaped venue offers stunning Mediterranean cuisine with a view of the sea, complemented by a beach club featuring sun loungers for a relaxed day out.
Open daily from 10am-1am. Location: Azure Residences, Palm Jumeirah. Visit: tagomago.ae (04 832 6620).
Dine Al Fresco at Time Out Market
If you’re looking to enjoy a meal and drinks outdoors in Downtown Dubai, Time Out Market Dubai is the place to go. With a spacious outdoor terrace and drinks starting at Dhs 35, it’s an excellent spot to take in stunning views of The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa. This lively market is one of the most picturesque outdoor dining destinations in Dubai—no bias here!
Hours: Mon-Thu noon-midnight, Fri noon-1am, Sat 10am-1am, Sun 10am-midnight. Location: Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai. For inquiries: timeoutmarket.com (054 375 2421).
Join an Outdoor Workout Class
As the weather cools down, it’s the perfect time to engage in outdoor workout classes throughout Dubai. With the pleasant temperatures, you can challenge yourself with various fitness activities that suit your preferences. Whether you’re interested in water workouts, sky-high yoga, or strength training, there are numerous options available to help you stay active and healthy.
Looking for More Activities in Dubai?
Exciting things to do this week:
- There’s always something thrilling happening in the city.
- Redeemable pool and beach days in Dubai: Maximize your value at these stunning spots.
- Top spots for sundowners in Dubai: Discover the best bars, beach clubs, and restaurants with sunset views.
Where will you head to tonight?