What is driving the UAE weather
The country is under the influence of unstable atmospheric conditions caused by convective clouds. These clouds are bringing intermittent to heavy rain, gusty winds and skies that shift from partly cloudy to fully overcast.
According to authorities, the system is linked to a deep low-pressure area moving from the Red Sea and interacting with a cold air mass in the upper atmosphere. This clash is creating sudden downpours, thunderstorms and, in some places, hail.
UAE cities with heavy rainfall
The NCM says the “main rainfall wave” will peak between Thursday, December 18, and Friday, December 19. The system first affected western regions and is now spreading east.
Abu Dhabi: Heavy rain is expected from late Thursday night, with around 16mm forecast through Friday.
Dubai: About 15mm of rain is likely on Friday, with the most intense spell expected between 4:00 am and 6:00 am.
Northern and eastern emirates: Areas such as Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah, which have already recorded more than 33mm of rain this week, will continue to see convective clouds, thunder and a high chance of hail.
UAE Weather Today: Orange alert and strong winds
The NCM has issued an orange alert for heavy rain over western and coastal regions, including Fujairah. The alert remains in effect until 4 pm on Friday.
The authority has also warned that lightning, thunder and hail are possible in some areas. Winds are expected to blow from the southeast to the northwest at moderate to strong speeds, with gusts that could reach up to 85 km/h. These winds may further reduce horizontal visibility due to dust and sand.
UAE Weather Forecast: Cold snap to follow the rain
As the rain eases by the weekend, a noticeable drop in temperatures is expected. Daytime highs are likely to fall to around 24°C in Dubai and 23°C in Abu Dhabi. Al Ain may see daytime temperatures near 21°C, with night temperatures dropping to around 10°C.
The NCM says temperatures will range between 17°C and 22°C in Abu Dhabi, 16°C and 23°C in Dubai, and 15°C and 21°C in Sharjah.
By Saturday evening, heavy rain should largely subside, leaving scattered clouds over northern and eastern areas. Sunday is expected to be calmer, though higher humidity could bring misty mornings in western parts of the country.
UAE Police advisory
With heavy rain and blowing dust reducing visibility, police in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have issued strong safety warnings. Along with slippery roads, motorists also face strict penalties for risky behaviour.
Officials have listed several “non-negotiable” rules during the storm:
- Entering flooded valleys: Driving into a closed road or flooded wadi can lead to a Dh2,000 fine, 23 black points and a 60-day vehicle impoundment.
- Obstructing emergency services: Hindering rescue or traffic workers carries a Dh1,000 fine and a 60-day impoundment.
- Using phones while driving: Recording rain or storms while driving can result in a Dh800 fine and four black points.
- Gathering near dams: Standing near flooded valleys or dams to watch water flow can cost Dh1,000 and six black points.
UAE Weather: Travel warnings as airport rush peaks
The bad weather comes at a busy time for Dubai International Airport (DXB), which expects a record 8.7 million passengers this month. Travellers are advised to leave much earlier than usual due to possible traffic delays on major roads such as E11 and E311.
While flights are generally expected to operate normally, heavy thunderstorms could still cause minor delays or temporary holds.
At sea, conditions are more serious. The NCM has warned of “rough to very rough” seas in the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. Winds may reach up to 65 km/h, kicking up sand and creating high waves. Boat owners and marine enthusiasts have been told to stay onshore until conditions improve.
