The UAE woke up to a chilly start Sunday as temperatures in Raknah, Al Ain, plunged to 9.8°C, the lowest of the season so far, signaling the arrival of winter across the Emirates, the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) reportedAt 6:30am UAE local time, the mercury dropped to 9.8°C in Raknah, Al Ain, marking the coldest reading in the country today. The NCM confirmed this figure, emphasizing that winter in the UAE brings milder conditions compared to the scorching summer months.Typical winter daytime temperatures range between 15°C and 25°C, offering a welcome relief for residents and visitors alike. However, early mornings and elevated areas often experience significantly cooler temperatures.While today’s low is notable, it is far from the UAE’s all-time record. On February 3, 2017, temperatures in the country plunged to -5.7°C at Jebel Jais, the nation’s highest peak located around 25 kilometres from Ras Al Khaimah City. This remains the coldest temperature ever officially recorded in the UAE.For the current year, 2025, the lowest recorded temperature prior to today was 1.9°C on January 4 at Jebel Jais, following a 2.2°C reading the day before. These figures illustrate the pattern of early-morning chills in mountainous areas, even as daytime temperatures remain moderate.The UAE’s winter season, which typically runs from November to March, is characterized by cooler mornings, mild days, and relatively low humidity. While daytime temperatures in most urban and coastal areas stay between 15°C and 25°C, residents in desert regions or high-altitude locations may experience sharp dips in temperature overnight.The NCM continues to monitor these fluctuations closely, issuing guidance for residents to prepare for colder mornings and potential weather-related impacts, particularly in elevated or exposed areas.
Implications and observations
- Daily life: Cooler mornings may require warmer clothing, while daytime conditions remain comfortable.
- Travel and tourism: Early-morning temperatures in places like Al Ain and Ras Al Khaimah could affect outdoor activities, especially in desert or mountainous regions.
- Agriculture: Frost-sensitive crops in elevated areas might need extra protection during these cold snaps.
Today’s 9.8°C reading in Raknah is a reminder that while UAE winters are mild compared to many countries, early-morning chills can still be significant, especially in inland and mountainous locations
