Best Things to do in Dubai when it is too HOT!

Let’s be honest—Dubai is stunning year-round, but when the summer heat hits, it can feel like you’re walking into an oven. Luckily, this city doesn’t shy away from extremes—in temperature or in entertainment. So if you’re wondering how to beat the heat without missing out on what Dubai has to offer, here’s your ultimate list of cool (literally) Best things to do in Dubai when it is too hot to be outside!

1. Hit the Malls (It’s Not Just Shopping!)

Dubai’s malls are more like entertainment hubs than traditional shopping centers, and they’re perfectly air-conditioned for those blistering-hot days.

🛍️ The Dubai Mall

• One of the biggest malls in the world.

• Home to Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, VR Park, and an Olympic-sized ice rink.

• Also great for people-watching and luxury window-shopping.

🛷 Mall of the Emirates

• Known for Ski Dubai, the Middle East’s first indoor ski slope—yes, snow in the desert!

• Also houses Magic Planet for kids and teens, and VOX Cinemas for luxe movie nights.

🏰 Ibn Battuta Mall

• Themed after the travels of explorer Ibn Battuta, with six stunningly designed courts (India, China, Persia, Egypt, Tunisia, and Andalusia).

• A more relaxed shopping vibe, less crowded than Dubai Mall.

• Great for a cultural twist on your mall day.

🧊 City Centre Mirdif

• Home to iFLY Dubai, an indoor skydiving tunnel that lets you float mid-air.

• Features VOX Cinemas, Magic Planet, and a full range of international dining options.

✨ Dubai Hills Mall

• One of the city’s newest additions with wide walkways and a more chilled-out vibe.

• Great for families, plus it’s home to The Storm Coaster, the world’s fastest indoor roller coaster.

2. Explore the Underwater World at The Lost Chambers Aquarium

Located in Atlantis The Palm, The Lost Chambers Aquarium is an atmospheric, air-conditioned underwater maze inspired by the lost city of Atlantis. It’s serene, surreal, and perfect for escaping the heat while getting up close with marine life.

3. Dive Into Indoor Adventure Parks

If you’ve got energy to burn:

• IMG Worlds of Adventure: The largest indoor theme park in the world, with zones themed around Marvel, Cartoon Network, and more.

• Bounce Dubai: A massive indoor trampoline park perfect for kids and kids-at-heart.

4. Get Cultured Indoors

If you’re looking for something more low-key:

• Etihad Museum: A sleek, beautifully designed museum showcasing the history of the UAE.

• Museum of the Future: This new architectural marvel isn’t just cool on the outside—it offers a fully immersive dive into the future of science, AI, and sustainability.

• Alserkal Avenue: A creative hub with air-conditioned galleries, art spaces, and indie cafés.

5. Pamper Yourself at a Luxurious Spa

Dubai knows how to do luxury. Book yourself into one of the city’s many five-star hotel spas for a cooling massage, a traditional hammam experience, or a full-day spa retreat. Try Talise Spa at Madinat Jumeirah or The Spa at Palace Downtown.

6. Go for a High Tea with a View

When it’s scorching outside, the best views come from within:

• At.mosphere (Burj Khalifa): Enjoy high tea 122 floors above the city.

• Skyview Bar (Burj Al Arab): Iconic views and air-conditioned opulence.

7. Chill at an Indoor Pool or Beach Club — or Go Beaching at Night

When the sun’s blazing, traditional beach days can be brutal—but that doesn’t mean you have to skip the sea completely.

🌊 Indoor Pools & Luxury Beach Clubs

• Book a pool day pass at places like Sofitel Dubai Downtown, Caesars Palace Bluewaters, or Address Sky View—all offering shaded or indoor options with stunning skyline views.

• Some hotels even offer night swims or late hours, adding to the vibe without the burn.

🌌 Umm Suqeim Night Beach

• One of the few public beaches in Dubai that stays open after dark and is fully lit with smart lighting.

• Located near the iconic Burj Al Arab, so the nighttime views are stunning.

• Great for a nighttime stroll, evening dip, or even a casual beach hangout when the temps drop.

• Bonus: There’s a jogging track and changing facilities too!

8. Try an Escape Room or Mystery Game

Dubai has an impressive collection of escape rooms, from horror-themed puzzles to crime-solving mysteries. Check out NoWayOut, or Phobia Dubai—perfect for groups or a fun date idea.

9. Catch a Movie in Style

Forget regular cinemas. Try:

• Reel Cinemas’ Platinum Suites (Dubai Mall): Reclining leather chairs, gourmet snacks, and personal butler service.

• VOX Cinemas’ THEATRE: A luxury experience complete with plush blankets and a chef-curated menu.

10. Ice Ice Baby – Chill at the Ice Lounge

Head over to Chillout Ice Lounge in Times Square Center, where everything—from the seats to the cups—is made of ice. They provide you with warm gear, so you can sip hot chocolate in sub-zero temps while it’s 45°C outside.

So, whether you’re a resident seeking a weekend escape or a tourist trying not to melt, Dubai offers more than enough indoor magic to keep you entertained. Who says you can’t have a hot vacation and stay cool at the same time?

Looking for family friendly hotels in Dubai? Check this out – 5 Best Family Hotels in Dubai