United Arab Emirates in January: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for January
Average temperature across United Arab Emirates in January.
City Weather in January
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi | 23° | 14° | 8 mm | high | Mild |
| Sharjah | 24° | 14° | 14 mm | moderate | Mild |
| Al Ain | 24° | 13° | 12 mm | high | Mild |
| Ajman | 24° | 13° | 15 mm | moderate | Mild |
| Ras al-Khaimah | 24° | 14° | 27 mm | moderate | Mild |
| Musaffah | 24° | 14° | 7 mm | high | Mild |
| Jebel Ali | 24° | 14° | 10 mm | moderate | Mild |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Dubai & the Northern Coast (Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman)
Clear, cool mornings in late winter make Dubai and Sharjah very walkable; daytime highs are commonly in the low to mid-20s°C and nights drop into the mid-teens. Visitors will notice migratory birds at Ras Al Khor and the Dubai Shopping Festival and other events still in swing - bring a light jacket for evenings and expect pleasant beach days without heavy crowds. Occasional short, showery systems can produce quick flashes of heavy rain and some street flooding, but they are usually brief.
Abu Dhabi & the Western Coast (Abu Dhabi city, Al Dhafra, Yas, Saadiyat)
Mild winter mornings in Abu Dhabi make garden islands and the Corniche pleasant - daytime highs commonly in the low to mid-20s°C with cool nights in the teens. Birdwatchers can spot winter migrants in the mangroves, and cultural sites operate on normal schedules; pack a light jacket for coastal breezes. Short, passing rain events are possible and can briefly flood low-lying roads, so allow extra travel time after downpours.
Hajar Mountains & Northern Highlands (Ras Al Khaimah, Jebel Jais, Jabal Hafeet approaches)
High-altitude mornings on Jebel Jais are brisk in winter and the lower valleys are comfortably cool - daytime highs in the foothills are often 16-22°C, much lower than the coast. Clear skies make for excellent views and hiking conditions, and the mountain roads are open for scenic drives; bring layered clothing since nights get cold quickly. Occasional rainfall can produce muddy trails and streams, so waterproof footwear is useful for walkers.
Fujairah & the East Coast (Fujairah city, Khor Fakkan, Dibba)
A crisp winter sun on the Gulf of Oman makes mornings ideal for diving and rock-climbing around Fujairah; daytime highs are typically in the low 20s°C with cool evenings. The sea is clearer and calmer for snorkeling compared with some Gulf locations, and local forts and mountain passes are enjoyable without heat stress. Rain is possible on a few days but usually light; bring a light jacket for coastal breezes after sunset.
Rub’ al Khali & Desert Interior (Liwa, Empty Quarter approaches)
Winter mornings in Liwa are cool and highly attractive for desert camping and dune driving: daytime highs often sit in the low 20s°C and nights can be brisk, so a warm layer is wise. The dunes are firm after any earlier rains, making off-road travel easier; this is also prime season for cultural events and desert festivals that celebrate date harvests. Expect calm, clear skies for star photography but carry wind protection for early-morning breezes.