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Temperatures barely change, so the useful question is which coast is in its drier months.
| Season | Months | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| West coast drier | December to February | Best for Langkawi, Penang and the Kuala Lumpur side. |
| East coast drier | March to October | Best for Tioman, the Perhentians and Borneo's east. |
| Monsoon by coast | varies | One coast is wet while the other is dry, so there is always a good option. |
The Andaman side, Langkawi and Penang, is driest and sunniest over the UAE winter, ideal for beaches and island-hopping. Kuala Lumpur is comfortable for city sightseeing too.
The South China Sea side, Tioman and the Perhentians, is at its best from spring to autumn, with calm, clear water for diving and snorkelling. The east-coast monsoon runs November to February.
The capital is warm and humid all year, with frequent short showers, and works at any time. The Cameron Highlands stay cool and green whatever the season.
Two coasts, opposite seasons
Malaysia's two coasts are rarely wet at the same time. If one side is in its monsoon, the other is usually dry, so you can almost always plan a good beach trip by picking the right coast.
Flights from Dubai to Kuala Lumpur take around seven hours. Malaysia pairs well with Singapore or Thailand for a wider trip. Settle your visa route before booking.
Before you book flights, sort your visa. Check which route applies to your passport as a UAE resident on our Malaysia visa from Dubai guide.
December to February for the west coast and Langkawi, March to October for the east coast and Borneo. Kuala Lumpur works any time of year.
December to February, when the west coast is driest and sunniest, ideal for beaches and island-hopping.
March to October, when the east coast is dry and the sea is calm and clear. The islands largely close during the east-coast monsoon.
It is tropical, so short showers are common year-round, but they usually pass quickly. The monsoon affects one coast at a time.
Around a week covers Kuala Lumpur and one island or region. Ten days lets you add Borneo or combine with a neighbouring country.
It depends on your passport and residence. Check the route for you on our Malaysia visa for UAE residents guide before booking.