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Contents
- The climate of Abu Dhabi
- The best time to visit Abu Dhabi
- The worst time to visit Abu Dhabi
- Spring weather in Abu Dhabi
- Summer weather in Abu Dhabi
- Autumn weather in Abu Dhabi
- Winter weather in Abu Dhabi
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
Water geysers and trees in front of the mighty skyscrapers of Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates
The climate of Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, lies within the BWh climate zone according to the Köppen climate classification. This specific classification denotes a prominent desert climate with substantial heat and minimal rainfall. Geographically, it's positioned on the eastern side of the Arabian Peninsula, adjacent to the Persian Gulf, exposing it to a consistent breeze from the sea which does little to alleviate the heat but contributes to humidity levels.
As a high-temperature region, Abu Dhabi exhibits extreme temperatures almost year-round. The hottest temperatures can reach 40.3°C (104.5°F) in July and 40.1°C (104.2°F) in August. Conversely, the coolest temperatures occur in January, dipping to 18.4°C (65.1°F). It's noteworthy that even at its lowest, the temperature is considerably warm. The range of sea temperatures from 20.6°C (69.1°F) in February to 33.8°C (92.8°F) in August suggests a considerable month-to-month fluctuation.
Typically, a desert climate means low humidity. However, Abu Dhabi records relative humidity levels averaging from 43% in May up to 59% in January. This pattern implies a fairly constant and moderate level of humidity throughout the year but can feel significantly higher due to prevailing high temperatures.
Rainfall is scarce, the highest being 8mm (0.31") in January. The rest of the year sees minimal to no rainfall, with several months such as May through August and October recording no rainfall at all. Despite the low rainfall, cloud coverage remains low ranging from 1% in September to 11% in January, February, March and April.
Abu Dhabi has strong wind movement, with speeds ranging from 13.4km/h (8.3mph) to 16.1km/h (10mph). The wind speed peaks in March with gusts reaching up to 25km/h (15.5mph).
As a high-temperature region, Abu Dhabi exhibits extreme temperatures almost year-round. The hottest temperatures can reach 40.3°C (104.5°F) in July and 40.1°C (104.2°F) in August. Conversely, the coolest temperatures occur in January, dipping to 18.4°C (65.1°F). It's noteworthy that even at its lowest, the temperature is considerably warm. The range of sea temperatures from 20.6°C (69.1°F) in February to 33.8°C (92.8°F) in August suggests a considerable month-to-month fluctuation.
Typically, a desert climate means low humidity. However, Abu Dhabi records relative humidity levels averaging from 43% in May up to 59% in January. This pattern implies a fairly constant and moderate level of humidity throughout the year but can feel significantly higher due to prevailing high temperatures.
Rainfall is scarce, the highest being 8mm (0.31") in January. The rest of the year sees minimal to no rainfall, with several months such as May through August and October recording no rainfall at all. Despite the low rainfall, cloud coverage remains low ranging from 1% in September to 11% in January, February, March and April.
Abu Dhabi has strong wind movement, with speeds ranging from 13.4km/h (8.3mph) to 16.1km/h (10mph). The wind speed peaks in March with gusts reaching up to 25km/h (15.5mph).
The best time to visit Abu Dhabi
Based on temperature and rainfall data, the most favorable period to visit Abu Dhabi would be between November and March. During this time, the city experiences its coolest temperatures, ranging from 18.4°C (65.1°F) to 24.7°C (76.5°F). In addition, these months provide the longest daylight hours, peaking at 12.7 hours in April. Visitors can also expect comparatively lower humidity during these months, making outdoor activities more pleasant. Nevertheless, tourists should still be prepared for warm temperatures and high UV Index readings.
The worst time to visit Abu Dhabi
The least desirable months to visit are June through September when scorching temperatures average from 36.5°C (97.7°F) to 40.3°C (104.5°F). The extreme heat, coupled with high humidity often reaching above 47%, can make outdoor activities particularly exhausting during this time. Additionally, these months record the shortest daylight hours, not fully compensating for the longer sunshine hours.
Spring weather in Abu Dhabi
Spring in Abu Dhabi, typically from March to May, experiences steady increment in temperatures. March records temperatures between 18.4°C (65.1°F) to 28°C (82.4°F), April sees a rise from 25.6°C (78.1°F) to 32.3°C (90.1°F), and by May, temperatures soar from 29.3°C (84.7°F) to 36.5°C (97.7°F). Humidity starts at 50% and falls slightly to reach 43% by May. In terms of rainfall, spring only experiences negligible amounts.
Summer weather in Abu Dhabi
Summers are extremely hot in Abu Dhabi, starting from June until September. Maximum temperature values range from 38.1°C (100.6°F) in September to a sizzling 40.3°C (104.5°F) in July. Even the minimum temperatures are quite high, reaching up to 33.2°C (91.8°F) in August. Rainfall is virtually non-existent in these months, and relative humidity fluctuates between 47% to 49%.
Autumn weather in Abu Dhabi
Autumn months from October to November experience a slight dip in temperature from 28.3°C (82.9°F) to 34.8°C (94.6°F) in October and down to 20.6°C (69.1°F) to 29.6°C (85.3°F) in November. This period sees an almost negligible amount of rainfall with humidity levels around 53%.
Winter weather in Abu Dhabi
Winters in Abu Dhabi, from December to February, are relatively mild with temperatures ranging from 18.4°C (65.1°F) in January to a high of 24.7°C (76.5°F) in December. Rainfall during this season is slightly higher compared to the rest of the year. Relative humidity begins at 58% in December and increases slightly to 59% in January before it begins to drop again.
Weather in January
January in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates is characterized by mild daytime temperatures, making it significantly cooler than its typical hot desert climate. The winter season brings lower temperatures, from 18.4°C (65.1°F) to 23.3°C (73.9°F), offering a much-needed break from the usually relentless heat. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February brings a gradual increase in temperatures and daylight hours in Abu Dhabi, signaling the transition towards spring. The rising temperatures complement the extended daylight, allowing more time for outdoor activities. Humidity levels remain manageable, and the rain stays minimal. Weather in February »
Weather in March
The arrival of March brings a warmer Abu Dhabi, with temperatures rising to 28°C (82.4°F), indicative of the onset of summer. The ever-shining sun stays consistent with average sunshine hours touching nearly 12, and a UV index level of 7 suggesting higher solar radiation. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in Abu Dhabi continues the warming trend with further increases in temperatures and declining relative humidity levels. The increase in temperature doesn’t dismay the visitors as the city gears up with numerous indoor activities. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May is the transitional month in Abu Dhabi, with the desert heat starting to make its presence felt. The increase in temperatures signals the onset of the intense summer and marks a period of declining rainfall days. The wind becomes a little gentler, and the city’s famous clear skies remain as cloud-cover lowers to only 4%. Weather in May »
Weather in June
It is during June that Abu Dhabi experiences the advent of the sweltering summer, with temperatures peaking at 38.7°C (101.7°F). The high temperatures combine with the decreasing wind speed to create a typical, hot desert summer in the city. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July in Abu Dhabi is characterized by extreme heat with temperatures soaring to 40.3°C (104.5°F), making it the hottest month of the year. The intense summer heat is counteracted with indoor activities and air-conditioned environments. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August sees the continuation of extreme summer temperatures in Abu Dhabi. The city experiences less wind and elevated humidity. The high temperatures often encourage residents and visitors alike to seek respite in the many air-conditioned venues throughout the city. Weather in August »
Weather in September
As September arrives in Abu Dhabi, there is a slight decrease in heat, indicating the beginning of the transition from summer to autumn. The weather becomes noticeably more comfortable with declining temperatures, humidity, and cloud cover. Weather in September »
Weather in October
The weather in October is more pleasant in Abu Dhabi, with temperatures falling noticeably from the summer peak. The decrease in heat is accompanied by a slight increase in wind speed, thereby making outdoor activities enjoyable once again. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November in Abu Dhabi witnesses the onset of winter, with cooler temperatures becoming prevalent in the city. As the heat declines further, the weather becomes enjoyable, urging residents and tourists to make the most of the outdoor activities the city has to offer. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December in Abu Dhabi brings cooler temperatures, marking the peak of the winter season. With the average temperature settling between 20.6°C (69.1°F) and 25.4°C (77.7°F), the weather remains very charming and ideal for sightseeing. Weather in December »
Updated: Jul 12, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What part of the year is the coldest?
In Abu Dhabi, January registers the lowest temperatures, averaging 23.3°C (73.9°F) at the peak and 18.4°C (65.1°F) at the lowest.
What is the most humid month?
The most humid month is January, with an average relative humidity of 59%.
What is the wettest month?
The month with the most rainfall is January, when the rain falls for 2 days and typically aggregates up to 8mm (0.31") of precipitation.
How much does it rain?
In Abu Dhabi, during the entire year, the rain falls for 14.9 days and collects up to 22mm (0.87") of precipitation.
What is the month with the lowest UV index?
January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the lowest UV index.
What is the month with the coldest sea water?
The month with the coldest seawater is February, with an average sea temperature of 20.6°C (69.1°F).
What is the least humid month?
With an average relative humidity of 43%, May is the least humid month.
What is the driest month?
In Abu Dhabi, rain does not fall in May through July and September.
When are the longest days?
With an average of 13h and 36min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.
What month has the most sunshine?
With an average of 12.3h of sunshine, June has the most sunshine of the year.
What are the months with the highest UV index?
June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 9, are months with the highest UV index.
What month is the hottest?
Abu Dhabi's July weather reaches an average high of 40.3°C (104.5°F) and an average low of 32.8°C (91°F), making it the warmest month.
When does it rain?
January through April, August, October through December are months with rainfall.
What month is the sea warmest?
August is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average sea temperature of 33.8°C (92.8°F).
What is the month with the shortest days?
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 10h and 42min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
Abu Dhabi does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). +04 timezone is used throughout the entire year.
What is the month with the least sunshine?
December has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 7.5h of sunshine.
Average temperature
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (40.3°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (23.3°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (33.2°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (18.4°C).
Average pressure
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Average pressure in January:
1017.7mbar - Average pressure in February:
1015.6mbar - Average pressure in March:
1013mbar - Average pressure in April:
1009.7mbar - Average pressure in May:
1005.5mbar - Average pressure in June:
999.4mbar
- Average pressure in July:
996.4mbar - Average pressure in August:
998.5mbar - Average pressure in September:
1003.7mbar - Average pressure in October:
1010.3mbar - Average pressure in November:
1014.6mbar - Average pressure in December:
1017.2mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (1017.7mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is July (996.4mbar).
Average wind speed
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Average wind speed in January:
14.4km/h - Average wind speed in February:
15.9km/h - Average wind speed in March:
16.1km/h - Average wind speed in April:
15.3km/h - Average wind speed in May:
15.1km/h - Average wind speed in June:
15.7km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
14.9km/h - Average wind speed in August:
14.6km/h - Average wind speed in September:
13.9km/h - Average wind speed in October:
13.4km/h - Average wind speed in November:
14.2km/h - Average wind speed in December:
14.6km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is March (16.1km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is October (13.4km/h).
Average humidity
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
The month with the highest relative humidity is January (59%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is May (43%).
Average rainfall
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is January (8mm).
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are May, June, July and September (0mm).
Average rainfall days
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Average rainfall days in January:
2 days - Average rainfall days in February:
1.3 days - Average rainfall days in March:
2.8 days - Average rainfall days in April:
3.9 days - Average rainfall days in May:
0.3 days - Average rainfall days in June:
0 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
0.4 days - Average rainfall days in August:
0.8 days - Average rainfall days in September:
0.2 days - Average rainfall days in October:
0.3 days - Average rainfall days in November:
0.9 days - Average rainfall days in December:
2 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is April (3.9 days).
The month with the least rainy days is June (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (33.8°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is February (20.6°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in May:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in June:
13h and 4min
- Average daylight in July:
13h and 3min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 0min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in November:
11h and 0min - Average daylight in December:
10h and 4min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 13h and 36min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 10h and 42min).
- Average sunshine in January:
8h and 0min - Average sunshine in February:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in March:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
10h and 5min - Average sunshine in May:
12h and 1min - Average sunshine in June:
12h and 2min
- Average sunshine in July:
12h and 1min - Average sunshine in August:
11h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
10h and 0min - Average sunshine in October:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in November:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in December:
7h and 3min
The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 12h and 18min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 7h and 30min).
Average sunshine days
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Average sunshine days in January:
28.7 days - Average sunshine days in February:
26.2 days - Average sunshine days in March:
28.3 days - Average sunshine days in April:
26.2 days - Average sunshine days in May:
30.6 days - Average sunshine days in June:
30 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
30.6 days - Average sunshine days in August:
29.8 days - Average sunshine days in September:
29.8 days - Average sunshine days in October:
30.5 days - Average sunshine days in November:
28.8 days - Average sunshine days in December:
28.7 days
The months with the most sunshine days are May and July (30.6 days).
The months with the least sunshine days are February and April (26.2 days).
Average UV index
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 9).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December (UV index 6).
Average cloud cover
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
The months with the most cloud cover are January, February, March and April (Cloud cover 11).
The month with the least cloud cover is September (Cloud cover 1).
Average visibility
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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