Where Do All the Expats Go in the Summer?
Jul 16, 2025
Ever feel like Dubai hits pause in July?
The school run chaos disappears, traffic thins out, even the malls feel… quieter.
Group chats go quiet. Your go-to café has empty tables.
And you’re left wondering: Where did everyone go?
If you’ve lived here long enough, you know this isn’t just your imagination. It’s expat summer mode, when Dubai empties out and everyone seems to vanish to some breezy, better-climate version of “home.”
Whether you’re still here, halfway to the airport, or just planning your exit strategy, we wanted to unpack this annual ritual, and how it actually says a lot about what it means to be an expat.
1. Why Expats Leave in Summer
It’s not just about escaping the heat. For many expats, summer is the only time to reconnect with family, childhood homes, or even just themselves.
Some go home to see parents, some chase cooler weather, and some just need a break from the pace of Dubai life.
Based on trends, these are some top destinations for summer 2025:
- Europe especially UK, France, Italy
- South Asia & Southeast Asia India, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Bali
- Home visits for long overdue reunions with family
- Mini breaks in the region Ras Al Khaimah, Salalah, Oman
2. And Some Choose to Stay
And then, there’s you. Maybe still here. And if so, you’re not alone. Sure, it’s hot. Really hot. But there’s a stillness that’s kind of… beautiful.
No rush. No crowds. Just time. For yourself, for reflection, maybe even for new friendships.
This is when slower moments feel more intentional. Slower mornings, quieter spaces, and time to reflect, or maybe even reconnect with yourself in new ways.
3. The Emotional Bit No One Talks About
Summer breaks are often sold to us as “relaxing,” but if you’re navigating multiple identities, long-distance everything, and trying to make Dubai feel like home, it can feel anything but.
There’s homesickness. FOMO. The weight of not belonging in just one place.
That’s why community matters. That’s why we stay connected.
Even when people are scattered across time zones, we’re still here. For each other. For the messages in the group chat. For the stories that keep us grounded in this in-between life.
4. Still Around? Or Coming Back Soon?
We’ve got you.
This summer might look a little quieter on the events front, but we’re still here — cheering you on through our 60-Day Step Challenge and community app. and our 60-Day Step Challenge, so you’re not doing this season alone.
New to Coffee With An Expat? This is your sign to finally join the community.
You’ll find women who just get it, no explaining needed.
Before You Go…
Whether you’re catching flights or catching up on quiet time in Dubai, just know this:
You’re not the only one navigating this summer in-between. And wherever you are, this community is right here with you.
