Everything you need to know about visiting Abu Dhabi in March
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March is a wonderful time of the year to be in Abu Dhabi. Spring – such as it is in the United Arab Emirates – briefly makes an appearance in March. Daytime temperatures are warm but still cool a little in the evening for a refreshing break, and there is plenty going on around town to see and do.
After November, it is probably our second favourite month of the year that we recommend visitors come to Abu Dhabi!
Note that the Holy Month of Ramadan will fall between the 17th February and 19th March 2026 (subject to the moon sighting). It’s certainly not a reason NOT to visit at this time of year, just consider this when making your Abu Dhabi travel plans.
Abu Dhabi Weather in March
You should expect pleasant weather in Abu Dhabi during March. Abu Dhabi’s average daytime maximum temperature in March is 27.1°C (80.8°F), with highs as much as 40.2°C (104.3°F) and average lows overnight down to 20.8°C (69.4°F).
In March, sea temperatures can be as low as 21.6°C (71°F) and as high as 24.6°C (74.8°F) by the end of the month. On average, the shoulder season brings sea temperatures of 22.7°C (72.9°F).
March may not be the best month for swimming (we’d suggest you stay somewhere with a temperature-controlled pool!), but it is perfect for al fresco dining in the evening without feeling you need to bring a jacket; you’re past the chilly evenings of the winter season.
It’s not unusual in March to still experience some rain and dust storms. We wouldn’t be packing the umbrella ‘just in case’; the average rainfall in March is only 10mm. However, it wouldn’t be a total surprise if you find yourself needing to seek cover and quickly change plans to an indoor day if it does rain.
Whatever time of year you visit Abu Dhabi, you will still want a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses – you can find our full packing list tips for Abu Dhabi here.
Weather information sourced from the National Centre of Meteorology Climate Report 2003-2019 for Abu Dhabi Corniche and seatemperature.org
Abu Dhabi Special Events In March 2026
During March, there are usually a lot of festivals and events happening around town.
However, in 2026, the Holy Month of Ramadan is expected to start around the 17th February and conclude with the celebration of Eid-Al-Fitr around the 19th/20th March. During Ramadan, most live entertainment stops, and Muslims do not eat or drink during daylight hours. Visitors and non-Muslim expats should be mindful of this.
Restrictions have changed considerably over the years, where the majority of eating and entertainment establishments DO remain open during the day, albeit there may be changes to business hours. Remember, it is always best to respect the local culture and refrain from eating and drinking in public except in designated areas (as doing so is still legally prohibited, even if rarely enforced with fines). It is also advisable for women to dress a little more conservatively during this very special time too.
For more details about what to expect during Ramadan and how to behave as a tourist, click here.
Historical & Cultural Event
- The Holy Month of Ramadan will commence on or about 17th February 2026 and lasts approximately 29 days. Most live entertainment stops at this time. Non-Muslims should be aware of daylight fasting over Ramadan, but why not locally join in with an Iftar for breaking off the fast or overnight Suhoor to mark the occasion? You can check out our complete guide to iftar in Abu Dhabi here.
- Ramadan evenings also offer a range of markets, cultural workshops and opportunities for connection. You can find out more about these here. One event that you really shouldn’t miss is Lammat Ramadan running on Abu Dhabi Corniche from the 27th February to the 8th March.
- There will also be celebrations across the city for Eid-Al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan. Expect fireworks, cultural performances and sales in the city’s many malls. Note that Eid is a public holiday and schools and public offices will be closed. Eid is expected to fall on the 19th or 20th March subject to the moon sighting.
- Hindus and colour lovers will want to join in with several festive events for Holi in Abu Dhabi, marking the occasion that will fall on 4 March. Events include Holi Colors of Friendship, at Hudrayiyat Beach on 23 March.
- Celebrating everything women in the UAE during March. International Women’s Day is widely marked on 8 March, and UAE Mother’s Day is always celebrated on the 21st of March with many special themed afternoon teas and special packages.
- Another interesting event taking place in Abu Dhabi is UMEX – the world’s largest event for unmanned and autonomous systems – taking place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) between 7th and 9th March.
- If you’re looking for somewhere to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day there will be a few places marking the day in Abu Dhabi. PJ O’Reilly’s will be hosting a special St Patrick’s Day Brunch on Saturday 21st March at 1.00 pm.
Sporting Events
- The Gran Turismo World Championship will have its Middle Eastern debut at the Space42 Arena on the 28th March.
Comedy, Music and Theatrical Performances
- There will be a special Ramadan concert ‘Echoes of Fez’ at the Louvre on March 1st where audiences can enjoy the vocals of renowned Moroccan singer Nourredine Tahiri alongside Moroccan and Andalusian melodies and devotional works.
- Naissam Jalal and Hazem Shaheen offer a night of Arabic-jazz fusion at The Blue Hall, NYU Arts Centre on March 3rd.
- Fursiyya: The Return to Origins will continue until March 21st. This mesmerizing equestrian show demonstrates the Arab philosophy of horsemanship and would make an excellent addition to your Abu Dhabi itinerary.
- Take a jolly holiday with Mary, Bert and the children, as Mary Poppins takes to the stage at the Etihad Arena from March 25th until 12th April.
- AccessPass Festival is the place to be on Sunday 29th March with live music from The Calling, Skusta Clee and Flow G as well as fitness activations, lifestyle and culture zones and a car show!
Suggested Abu Dhabi Activities in March 2026
March is usually* our favourite month for outdoor activities and island exploration. Did you know Abu Dhabi has over 200 islands? In fact, the main city is an island!
Most visitors will likely be familiar with Saadiyat Island and Yas Island, but there are plenty of new islands, and some a little further away from town, vying for your attention, too.
- Why not try an Abu Dhabi island-hopping cruise from Al Bateen Marina? This particular tour includes stops for swimming.
- Book a daycation to Al Maya Island, just minutes from the city’s high rises but a world away; they’ve also reopened their villas for overnight stays.
- Visit the exclusive luxury island of Nurai – day trips with brunch on the weekend or stay at the resort ( NB looks like it will remain closed this Spring as extensive renovations are happening under new management).
- Try a night at the luxury villas that have opened at Bab Al Nojoum on Al Hudayriyat Island, or for a more rustic experience, enjoy their camping and glamping site.
- For a more serene experience, try kayaking in the mangroves, taking you to some of the city’s most beautiful nature spots.
*Exploring may be a little trickier this year as March encompasses much of the month of Ramadan, during which people, whether they’re Muslim or not, should not eat or drink in public during daylight hours; this makes long days outdoors and picnics in the park unfeasible this year. Many hotels and restaurants will still operate during Ramadan, but you will be restricted to where you can eat and drink.
Day Trips From Abu Dhabi in March 2026
Keeping with our island theme, if you want to head beyond Abu Dhabi city, this is the perfect time of year to head west and visit Sir Bani Yas Island. Sitting off the coast from Ruwais, from the Jebel Dhanna Jetty, you are transported by ferry to one of the UAE’s largest nature reserves.
To make the most of it, you are definitely best staying overnight, either in the Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa, or enjoy one of their luxury Villas Al Yamm Villa Resort or Al Sahel Villas.
Another top suggestion for March, while it’s not too hot, is to head south to Abu Dhabi’s second-largest city Al Ain. The Garden City (or Oasis City as it’s also known) is home to the UAE’s only currently listed UNESCO World Heritage site, which actually incorporates several sites dotted around the city.
Al Ain Adventure has also fairly recently reopened its doors (formerly Wadi Adventure). Rafting, surfing, kayaking, and wakeboarding are among the many water sports you can participate in at this incredible outdoor adventure venue in Al Ain.
The best thing to try at this time of year is Glamping in Abu Dhabi – there are a few spots to be found really close to the city and some further afield – check them all out here in our complete guide to Abu Dhabi glamping.
Abu Dhabi With Kids in March 2026
The weather is still cool enough in March to be out in all but the peak of the day, although do you bear in mind that eating and drinking are prohibited in public places during daylight hours during Ramadan. That said why not try these venues around the city, particularly early in the morning or just before sunset:
- Umm Al Emarat Park in the centre of Abu Dhabi island is always a winner for kids’ activities, from the botanic gardens to the small splash park, wadis, or seasonal events.
- Jubail Mangrove Park – our go-to outdoor venue for getting some fresh air this winter. Whether you come at high tide and enjoy the serene aqua waters or come around low tide to see the sea life scampering beneath, it’s one of Abu Dhabi’s most beautiful areas for families to explore.
- Al Hudayriyat Island – From the high adrenaline activities at Circuit X High Ropes Course, BMX Park & Skate Park to the more serene Heritage Trail that loops along the coast ending at the Marsana beach and food trucks, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the fresh spring weather in Abu Dhabi
- Travelling to Abu Dhabi with young kids? Find here your complete guide to Abu Dhabi with toddlers.
Check out the best things to do in Abu Dhabi every month here
Before you go… Important things to consider when planning a trip to Abu Dhabi
- Pop into our essential planning information page; it includes everything you need to know about getting around Abu Dhabi, a handy guide on what to pack and top tips for first-timers on the dos and don’ts, laws, and customs in the UAE.
- Start planning your itinerary around the 60+ top places to visit in Abu Dhabi.
- Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance!
- Discover the best places to stay in Abu Dhabi.
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