Your Ultimate Guide to January in the UAE 2026: Events, Activities and Adventures
January is one of the best months to experience the UAE. As the new year begins, Dubai and Abu Dhabi settle into a clearer, calmer rhythm — perfect weather, world-class events and long, easy days made for exploring.
Whether you’re a resident or visiting for the season, this is your time. Time to get outside, time to enjoy the city at your pace, and time to discover everything happening across the Emirates. Here’s your guide to the top events, festivals and experiences across the UAE this January — and how Otto helps you do life better while you explore.
Perfect Weather for Getting Out and About
January delivers some of the best conditions of the year, with daytime temperatures between 20°C and 25°C and cool evenings ideal for beach days, walks, and alfresco dining.
It’s the month where you can actually take your time — no rushing between AC stops, no heat limitations. Just slow mornings, fresh evenings and space to enjoy the city fully.
Dubai Shopping Festival (Until 11 January)
The Dubai Shopping Festival continues through the first half of January, with offers across major malls and retail hubs. Expect:
- Up to 75% off
- Nightly drone shows and fireworks
- Street performances and family entertainment
- MOTB outdoor market at d3 (1–11 January)
Whether you’re bargain-hunting or simply soaking up the energy, DSF is the perfect slow-stroll plan for winter.
Global Village (Open Through January)
With over 90 cultural pavilions, street food, concerts and performances, Global Village is one of the easiest January evening plans. The mild weather makes wandering through the open-air grounds a joy — dinner, culture, rides and shopping all in one place.
DP World ILT20 Cricket (Until 4 January)
Cricket fans can catch the final matches of the ILT20 tournament in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. With international players and big crowds, it’s a great excuse for mini road trips across the Emirates.
Dubai Marathon (1 February – Registration Open)
The Dubai Marathon takes place on 1 February, but January is when the buzz builds. Runners across all fitness levels train along the beaches and running tracks — and registration is open for the marathon, 10km race and 4km fun run.
Everyday January Magic
Beyond the big events, some of the best experiences this month are the simple ones:
Beach Life
JBR, Kite Beach and La Mer are at their best — quiet mornings, warm afternoons and perfect sunsets.
Desert Adventures
January is ideal for desert safaris, dune bashing and stargazing.
Al Marmoom Camel Racing Festival runs on select weekends with traditional performances and racing.
Dining Outdoors
From casual street food at Global Village to upscale terraces along the Marina, January is prime alfresco season.
Culture & Calm
The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature brings authors, workshops and debates to Dubai later in the month.
Getting Around the UAE in January
With events spread across the Emirates, having reliable transport makes January significantly easier. Public transport is convenient for certain routes, but exploring multiple events or going off-route often requires more flexibility.
This is where a car subscription with Otto makes all the difference:
- No long-term commitments
- All-inclusive pricing (insurance, basic servicing, support)
- Switch cars when your plans change
- Book and manage everything through the Otto app
Instead of being tied to ownership or long leases, you get the freedom to explore on your terms — perfect for a month built around doing life better.
How to Make the Most of January in the UAE
- Plan a few anchor moments: DSF, Global Village, beach days, desert trips.
- Balance big events with slow days to avoid burnout.
- Stay flexible — allow space for last-minute plans or good-weather days.
- Embrace outdoor living — walk, cycle, eat outside, explore neighbourhoods.
This Is Your Time
January in the UAE is an invitation to do life better. Clearer days, cooler nights and a city full of possibilities.
With Otto, you get the freedom to explore it all , without the stress of owning, the cost of leasing or the friction of waiting for transport.
Time for You.
Do life better.
Make it Otto.
👉 Explore your next drive at weareotto.com
FAQ
What’s happening in Dubai in January 2026?
Dubai Shopping Festival, Global Village, ILT20 cricket, museum exhibitions and perfect winter weather.
Is January a good time to visit the UAE?
Yes — it’s peak outdoor season with temperatures around 20–25°C and plenty of events.
How do I get around UAE events easily?
A flexible car subscription from Otto lets you move freely between events without long-term commitments.
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