Dubai in the Summer – An International Students Guide

Dubai, known for its dazzling skyscrapers, luxurious lifestyle, and vibrant culture, becomes a unique experience for international students during the summer months. The summer heat in Dubai can often soar above 40°C (104°F), making outdoor activities seem… a little less appealing! However, with proper planning and a few insider tips, international students can enjoy every second of their time in the city and make the most of their summer.

Stay Cool Indoors: During the hot summer months, it’s best to stay indoors during peak heat hours, typically from noon to 4 PM. Dubai is home to numerous air-conditioned malls, cafés, and indoor entertainment options. Popular spots include the Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Ibn Battuta Mall, offering a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences.

Explore Indoor Activities: While the heat may keep you away from outdoor adventures, Dubai offers plenty of indoor attractions, such as Ski Dubai (inside the Mall of the Emirates): A winter wonderland in the middle of the desert where you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or simply playing in the snow. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is one of the world’s largest indoor aquariums, located within the Dubai Mall and provides hours of entertainment! IMG Worlds of Adventure is an indoor theme park with thrilling rides and attractions that can be a whole day activity. Another must visit is The Green Planet: A bio-dome that allows you to experience the tropical rainforest indoors. 

Hydrate and Dress Strategically: The dry heat can dehydrate you quickly, so always carry water and wear lightweight, breathable clothing. Wearing sunscreen is also essential to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Attend Summer Events and Festivals: Despite the heat, Dubai’s event scene doesn’t slow down in the summer. Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) is an annual festival offering discounts, promotions, and entertainment across malls and attractions. There are also cultural events, concerts, and food festivals that run throughout the season.

Explore the Nightlife: The evenings in Dubai are much cooler, making it a great time to explore the city. Head to rooftop restaurants, desert safaris, or dine in waterfront restaurants for a cooler experience.

Embrace the Local Culture: Learning about and embracing Dubai's rich cultural heritage can be both rewarding and insightful. Visit museums like the Dubai Museum, Al Fahidi Historic District, or the Dubai Opera for a glimpse into the city's past and present.

Weekend Getaways: If you need a break from the city’s heat, explore nearby destinations. A quick flight to places like Sri Lanka or Oman offers a change of scenery, and these places are often more affordable for students during the off-peak season.

Work or Intern Opportunities: Summer can also be a good time to find a part-time job or internship, gaining valuable work experience while supporting your studies. The work environment is generally well-regulated, but make sure to adhere to visa and work regulations.

Learn a New Skill or Take a Training Programme
With LinkedIn Learning, you can get access to a world of online training sessions that can significantly enhance your professional skills and credentials. These courses cover a wide array of topics, from business and technology to creative skills, and are taught by industry experts. MDX students can gain access to LinkedIn Learning courses via the library, and the Library Team are more than happy to assist you in getting started. See Library Middlesex University Dubai for more details.

MDX Summer camp
Experience an unforgettable summer adventure at the MDX Summer camp in Dubai! Immerse yourself in university life while participating in specialised workshops that cover a range of key subjects, including Business, Computer Engineering, Fashion, Media, Law, and more. These workshops are designed to equip you with new skills and deepen your understanding, setting you up for future success. 

In conclusion, while Dubai’s summer heat can be daunting, international students can still make the most of their experience by embracing indoor activities, staying hydrated, and planning their time wisely. By adjusting to the climate and exploring the indoor attractions and summer events, students can enjoy life in Dubai while preparing for the academic year ahead.