While summer may have ended in the UK, plenty of popular holiday destinations across the world are still enjoying scorching summer temperatures. September is often holidaymakers’ favourite time to go abroad, as, particularly in Europe, temperatures remain in the high 20s to low 30s and the Med is warm, but resorts stay uncrowded and prices plummet.
But what is the hottest city in the world at this time of year? According to TUI, Dubai and the rest of the UAE claim the top spot, with around a 75% chance of sun, 0mm of rain and temperatures averaging at 34C. Dubai stands as the most populous city in the UAE, located on a creek on the southeastern coast of the Persian Gulf. As of this year, the city’s population stands at an impressive four million – 92% of whom are expats. Rapid construction since the 1990s has produced one of the world’s densest skylines, including the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Meanwhile, land-reclamation projects have added more than 190 miles of artificial coastline.
If quick, Brits could be sunning themselves in scorching temperatures later this week. According to BBC Weather, consulted on September 22, Monday will see highs of 40C, with much of the rest of the week staying in the high 30s. Temperatures will then peak on Saturday (September 27), with up to 41C expected in the early afternoon.
Dubai’s best time to visit is usually between November and March. Daytime temperatures are mild and comfortable, typically between 20 and 30C, and rainfall is low, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The shoulder seasons – April and October—are also good months to visit, with temperatures averaging around 35C in late October. Between May and September is the hottest time of year in Dubai, particularly in August. Temperatures often reach 41C, with some 11 hours of intense sunshine per day.
Puerto Vallarta, a resort city in Mexico, was named as the third hottest city for September by TUI. Located on the Pacific coast, it is known for its beautiful beaches, water sports and a charming cobblestone centre that features boutique shops, restaurants and the Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe church. For the nature lovers, you may even get lucky and spot a few whales on a whale-watching tour. At this time of year, temperatures average at 32C.
Aruba, an island country in the South Caribbean, just north of Venezuela, is also one of the hottest destinations to visit in September. Known for its clear waters, nature reserves and a compact capital city, Oranjestad, Aruba boasts average temperatures of 31C at this time of year, with only 9mm of rain. Druif Beach is a must-see, a stunning white-sand beach stretching 980ft with shallow, calm waters.
Egypt also made it onto TUI’s list, with temperatures also averaging at 32C this month. There is 0mm of rain per month and a whopping 93% chance of sun, while humidity hangs at an average of only 37%. Specifically, the Egyptian resort town of Hurghada on the Red Sea coast is an excellent choice. Hurghada is known for its picturesque wite sand beaches and world-class diving and snorkelling opportunities. Once a small fishing village, it has been transformed into a resort that offers a mix of luxury hotels, water parks and traditional markets, just a stone’s throw away from exploring ancient Egyptian sites like Lthe Valley of the Kings in Luxor.
Closer to home, there are several European destinations that also boast pleasant summer temperatures in September, without the long-haul flights. These include Malta, which retains its sunny Mediterranean climate and temperatures in the high 20s, as well as Cyprus, with days often enjoying around 24C.
In Spain, Seville is also a popular choice. Often dubbed the “frying pan of Europe”, the capital of Andalusia can feel almost as hot as the inferno of July and August, but as the month goes on, these temperatures start to subside. At this time of year, Seville enjoys highs of 33C and lows of only 18C, making it the perfect choice for Brits looking for a quick but balmy getaway this month.
