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 UAE – 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 we recommend for visitors to come to Abu Dhabi!
Please note this city guide relates to 2022. We will update this March guide to Abu Dhabi in early 2023. Note that the Holy Month of Ramadan will fall into the latter half of March in 2023. Please consider this when making your Abu Dhabi travel plans.
Abu Dhabi Weather in 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, you should expect sea temperatures on average of 22.7°C (72.9°F). Temperatures can be as low as 20.8°C (71°F) in the water, although sea temperatures can reach 24.6°C (74.8°F). It is still a little brisk in the water even though the outside air is significantly heating up during the day.
It’s not unusual in March to still experience some rain and dust storms. We wouldn’t be packing the umbrella ‘just in case’, but on a rare occasion, you might find yourself needing to seek cover and quickly change plans to an indoor day.
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 2023
During March, there are usually a lot of festivals and events happening around town.
In 2023, the holy month of Ramadan will start around the 22nd of 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. However, 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. It is also advisable for women to dress a little more conservatively during this very special time.
For more details about what to expect during Ramadan, click here.
Historical & Cultural Events
- On those cool evenings, you can still soak up the culture at the Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival – Held nightly on the outskirts of the city; this annual event showcases local traditions such as camel racing and falconry. This year the festival will end on March 18th. You can learn more here.
- The Middle East Film and Comic Convention (Comicon) is back in Abu Dhabi. Headliners at this year’s tribute to all things ‘geek’ will include actor Matt Smith (Dr. Who, House of the Dragon) as well as Andy Serkis, famous for playing the voice of Golam in The Lord of the Rings. The convention will be held at Abu Dhabi Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) from March 3rd – 5th. To find out more or book tickets click here.
- If you’re looking for somewhere to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th, McGettingan’s Irish bar at Dusit Thani is the place to be!
- Hindus and color lovers will want to join in with several festive events for Holi in Abu Dhabi, marking the occasion that will fall on 8th of March 2023.
- 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.
- The Holy Month of Ramadan will commence on or about 23 March 2023 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 of the fast or overnight Suhoor to mark the occassion?
Sporting Events
- The World Triathlon Championship Series takes place on the 3rd and 4th of March.
- Al Dhafra Water Festival will be held daily from 10 to 19 March 2023, from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm Al Mughira Beach, Al Dhafra (Western Region).
Comedy, Music and Theatrical Performances
- The Ultra Abu Dhabi Music Festival will occupy Etihad Park on the 4th and 5th of March. DJs include Calvin Harris, Afrojack, Adam Beyer and Amelie Lens.
- There will be the Stand Up Comedy Show Performance By Mo Amer & Maz Jobrani at the Etihad Arena on March 11th.
- Also on the 11th of March is Wireless Music Festival, the UK’s number 1 Urban Music Festival. The festival will includes performances from the world’s biggest hip-hop, urban, rap, R&B and grime stars and features Travis Scott, King, Black Sherif and Divine. For tickets and more information, click here.
- Abu Dhabi Festival, ADMAF announces the spectacular line-up of world-renowned artists appearing at this year’s special edition, from 10 March 2023 to 20 March 2023
Suggested Abu Dhabi Activities in March 2023
March is our favourite month for island exploration – warm weather and refreshing dips in the Gulf waters.
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 sightseeing cruise from either Emirates Palace Marina or Yas Marina with Yellow Boats
- Visit the exclusive luxury island Zaya Nauri – day trips with brunch on the weekend or stay at the resort.
- For a more serene experience, try kayaking in the mangroves, taking you to some of the city’s most beautiful nature spots.
Day Trips From Abu Dhabi in March
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 Dhbai’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 recently re-opened its doors (formerly Wadi Adventure) -r afting, surfing, kayaking and wakeboarding are amongst 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
The weather is still cool enough in March to be out in all but the peak of the day. Why not try these venues around the city:
- 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. Throughout Winter 2023, kids can visit BOUNCE in the park for outdoor trampolining fun or try the FREE outdoor cinema running throughout March.
- 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, its the perfect place to enjoy the fresh spring weather in Abu Dhabi
Check out the best things to do in Abu Dhabi every month here
Before you go… Important things to consider 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 as well as top tips for first-timers on the dos and don’ts, laws, and customs in the UAE.
- Check the most up-to-date COVID entry rules for Abu Dhabi.
- Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance!
- Discover the best places to stay in Abu Dhabi, or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:
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