What AC temperature saves the most on DEWA bills?

Set your thermostat to 24°C during the day. This keeps comfort high while avoiding the steep charges that start below 22°C.

How much water should I drink in 50°C heat?

Aim for 3.5 to 4 litres daily. Add 500 ml for each hour spent outside and carry an insulated bottle at all times.

When should I avoid going outside in summer?

Stay indoors between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. from June to August. Early morning before 9 a.m. or after 6 p.m. are the safest windows.

UAE Summer Survival Guide 2026: How to Live Through 50°C

Understand the 2026 Summer Peak

From May to September, daytime temperatures in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah often hit 48 to 50°C with humidity above 80 percent. The National Centre of Meteorology issues heat alerts when the heat index crosses 54°C. Plan your schedule around these warnings rather than the calendar.

Set Your AC Correctly

Keep indoor thermostats at 24°C during the day and 26°C at night. DEWA bills rise sharply below 22°C, so avoid over-cooling. Clean filters every three weeks and schedule annual servicing before June to prevent breakdowns during peak demand. Close blackout curtains between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to reduce heat gain by up to 30 percent.

Stay Hydrated with Clear Rules

Drink 3.5 to 4 litres of water daily when spending time outside. Add one extra 500 ml bottle for every hour spent in direct sun. Carry an insulated bottle and set phone reminders every 45 minutes. Avoid coffee and energy drinks between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.; they increase dehydration risk. If urine turns dark yellow, move indoors and sip water slowly for 20 minutes.

Choose Safe Outdoor Windows

Limit outdoor activity to before 9 a.m. or after 6 p.m. RTA advises against prolonged exposure on construction sites or beaches between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. from June to August. Use shaded metro stations and covered walkways. If you must be outside at midday, wear light-coloured, loose cotton clothing and a wide-brim hat. Never leave children or pets in parked cars, even for five minutes.

Build a 2026 Survival Kit

Reusable 1-litre insulated flask
Electrolyte sachets (available at pharmacies)
SPF 50+ sunscreen reapplied every two hours
Portable phone charger and cooling towel
Small first-aid kit with rehydration salts

Keep the kit in your car and office drawer. Pharmacies stock these items year-round, but stock up in April before shelves empty.

Monitor Health and Know When to Seek Help

Watch for dizziness, nausea, or rapid heartbeat. These are early heat-exhaustion signs. Move to air conditioning, loosen clothing, and sip water. If symptoms continue after 30 minutes or body temperature exceeds 39°C, go to the nearest DHA or DOH clinic. Save the 24-hour DHA hotline number in your phone before summer begins.

Ask Tovi for more

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Got more UAE questions?

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →