Everything you need to know about visiting Abu Dhabi in September
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Abu Dhabi experiences a hot and humid tail end to summer throughout September – cooler winter weather really doesn’t kick in until late October. Crowds are low and outside time is still limited, but the return of many expatriates and an influx of new joiners at this time of year still means there are plenty of special offers to enjoy around town.
September 2022 sees most COVID restrictions being lifted and capacity limits removed at venues across the city. The main restriction that remains is ensuring you have Al Hosn Green Pass.
Further Reading: The best time of year to visit Abu Dhabi
Please note the events detailed in this guide are yet to be updated for 2023.
Abu Dhabi Weather in September
Abu Dhabi’s average daytime maximum temperature in September is 37.4°C (99.3°F), with highs as much as 45°C (113°F) and average lows overnight down to 31°C (87.8°F). The “feels like” temperature, which takes into account humidity, can often be as high in September as it is in August.
In September, you should expect sea temperatures on average of 33.5°C (92.3°F). Maximum sea temperatures are expected of 34.6°C (93.4°F) through to a minimum of 32.5°C (91.3°F).
Make no mistake, no matter what 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 September 2023
We are still updating this monthly guide to Abu Dhabi events for 2023 – dates and details below may still reference 2022
- Westlife – Wild Dreams Tour – live entertainment at Etihad Arena 29 September 2022
- Abu Dhabi International Hunting & Equestrian Exhibition will take place at ADNEC from 26 September to 2 October 2022
- The ADNOC Marathon race series is back! Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy the first event, an indoor run at Yas Mall on 4 September 2022 (little legs can take part too with 1km and 3km races)
- A Harry Potter Interactive Event is taking place at Abu Dhabi Mall from 9 September throughout the month until 4 October 2022.
Schools traditionally return in September, so it is a quieter time of year at resorts and attractions than August – though you can expect weekends waterside to remain busy while families and locals try to beat the heat.
*It’s important to note that you must have the Alhosn Green Pass to attend any public buildings or events in Abu Dhabi – learn more here.
Suggested Abu Dhabi activities in September 2023
While the weather remains extremely hot outside, you will want to restrict your outdoor activities to early mornings and evenings, but do mind the humidity too. For indoor entertainment, we recommend:
- Try an Afternoon tea at one of Abu Dhabi’s top hotels
- Explore the new indoor Mina Fish Market in Mina Zayed
- Visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi – their rooftop lounge, Art Lounge, is also due to reopen for the winter season on 20 September 2022
- Catch up on some local history at Qasr al Hosn
- Sky-high views and dining can be enjoyed at Observation 300
- Enjoy the marine life at the National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
Day Trips from Abu Dhabi in September 2023
It is not the best time of year to day trip beyond Abu Dhabi in the heat. However, some nearby experiences you could try include:
- A daycation to Al Maya Island & Resort – boats depart from near the Palace
- A daycation to Zaya Nurai Island – just a 10-minute speed boat from Saadiyat Island
- Take a tour of some of Al Ain’s historical attractions, including the Al Ain Palace Museum and UNESCO Heritage Listed Al Ain Oasis.
Heading down the road to Dubai? You can check out more of what’s happening in Dubai in September here*
* Note that border restrictions have been lifted now between Dubai and Abu Dhabi emirates. You are now free to cross to Dubai or any of the Northern Emirates during your trip to Abu Dhabi without needing a recent PCR test for your return.
Abu Dhabi with Kids in September
Capacity restrictions have been completely lifted at entertainment venues across the city. In September, you will still want to seek out indoor activities and waterparks to keep your cool. We recommend you try:
- Ferrari World
- Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi
- Yas Waterworld
- CLYMB Abu Dhabi
- Little ones will like an evening stroll and play at the Circuit X Splash Park at Marsana, Al Hudayriyat island
You can find a detailed guide of things to do in Abu Dhabi with kids over here.
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.
- Find the latest Abu Dhabi COVID-19 Guidance here.
- Discover the best places to stay in Abu Dhabi, or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:
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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our hotel or tour recommendation links.
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