Everything you need to know about visiting Abu Dhabi in August
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Abu Dhabi enjoys extremely hot and often humid weather throughout August. It can be unbearable for many but is also low season so you can bag yourself a bargain on accommodation and soak up the rays in relative peace if you don’t mind the heat.
Further Reading: The best time of year to visit Abu Dhabi
Find current COVID entry requirements for Abu Dhabi here – these rules differ from Dubai
Abu Dhabi weather in August
Abu Dhabi’s average day time maximum temperature in August is 40.2°C (140.4°F), with highs as much as a sweltering 48°C (118.4°F) and average lows overnight down to 32.8°C (91°F).
By mid-August, you really start to feel the humidity too, which sticks around until October. The “feels like” temperature which includes wind chill factor can be significantly higher in August. It is not advisable to be out in the direct sunlight during the peak of the day.
Although most days bring clear blue skies, sandstorms and a dusty haze are not uncommon in Abu Dhabi in August.
In August, you should expect sea temperatures on average of 33.8°C (92.8°F). Maximum sea temperatures are expected of 35°C (94°F) through to a minimum of 32.6°c (91.6°F). It really feels like dipping into a spa in August, many prefer a hotel with a nice chilled pool at this time of year to negate the steamy ocean temperatures – not to mention how hot the sand gets! August is not a highly recommended beach month!
Make no mistake, no matter what time of year you visit Abu Dhabi you will 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 August 2020
During August there are relatively few major events, but plenty of enticing hospitality specials to still encourage you to get out and about. A large proportion of local expatriate workers disappear to their home countries during the hottest months which means you can grab great local hotel deals with no crowds.
Given the ongoing circumstances around COVID-19 there are still capacity restrictions in place, but you’ll find there’s plenty of room for all still whether it’s poolside or at a popular Friday brunch, the Abu Dhabi hospitality industry is focused on moving full steam ahead.
Major Abu Dhabi events in August
- Islamic New Year – 10 August – sometimes declared a public holiday, but generally goes fairly unobserved for tourists.
- Schools return – 29 August – proposed return date for public and private schools. It is generally quieter for tourists once the schools return but this year it will likely make little difference to crowd numbers.
Suggested Abu Dhabi activities in August
Given the intense heat of August, beyond a resort pool you are best sticking to indoor activities in August, or enjoying the coolest weather of the day early morning and evenings.
If you’re keen to pick up some rays, we recommend you choose a beach club that also offers the relief of a chilled swimming pool and bar nearby. Some favourites include:
- Nation Riviera Beach Club at The St Regis
- Bayshore Beach Club at the InterContinental
- Saadiyat Beach Club
You can read about all our favourite Abu Dhabi beach clubs here.
In terms of indoor attractions, the following places have re-opened their doors:
- Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Qasr al Watan
- Observation 300 (Observation Deck and afternoon tea options at the Lobby Lounge)
For those who prefer something outdoors and active still, why not try a boating experience, operating from many different parts of the city:
- Pilot your own boat with Rhino Rides through the Mangroves
- Take a traditional abra cruise along the Grand Canal with Captain Tony’s
- Enjoy The Yellow Boats guided speed boat tour from the Corniche
Day trips from Abu Dhabi in August
It is not the best time of year to day trip beyond Abu Dhabi in the heat of summer and tackling ongoing domestic border restrictions. Some nearby experiences still within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi you could try include:
- A daycation to Zaya Narui Island – just a 10-minute speed boat from Saadiyat Island
- A daycation to Al Maya Island & Resort – boats depart from near the Palace
- Visit the (indoor) eclectic car collection at Emirates National Auto Museum
Heading down the road to Dubai? You can check out more of what’s happening in Dubai in August here.
Abu Dhabi with kids in August
Keeping the kids entertained in the heat can be tough. Why not try one of the indoor theme parks on Yas Island?
We recommend for your tweens and thrill-seekers you try CLYMB Abu Dhabi, an indoor rocking centre and indoor skydiving experience attached to Yas Mall.
You can also try the great theme park trio of:
For convenience, we recommend staying at one of nearby the Yas Hotels, where you’ll also get access to Yas Beach. Newcomer Hilton Abu Dhabi on Yas Island is proving very popular with theme park stay and play packages available.
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.
- 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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