UAE Weather Forecast Dubai Rain Alert: Check the latest forecast for today and the next few days
What drives the UAE weather
Earth is under the influence of unstable atmospheric conditions caused by convective clouds. These clouds bring occasional to heavy rain, gusty winds and skies that change from partly clear to completely overcast.
According to authorities, the system is linked to a deep area of low pressure moving in from the Red Sea and interacting with a cold air mass in the upper atmosphere. This clash creates sudden downpours, thunderstorms and hail in some places.
Cities in the United Arab Emirates with heavy rainfall
The NCM says the “main wave of rainfall” will peak between Thursday 18 December and Friday 19 December. The system first hit western regions and is now spreading eastward.
Abu Dhabi: Heavy rain is expected from Thursday night, with around 16mm forecast by Friday.
Dubai: About 15mm of rain is expected on Friday, with the heaviest periods expected between 4am and 6am.
Northern and Eastern Emirates: Areas such as Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah, which have already received more than 33mm of rainfall this week, will continue to see convective clouds, thunder and a high chance of hail.
Weather today in the United Arab Emirates: Orange alert and strong winds
The NCM has issued an orange warning for heavy rain over western and coastal areas, including Fujairah. The warning is valid until 16:00 on Friday.
The agency also warned that lightning, thunder and hail could occur in some areas. Winds are expected to blow from the southeast to the northwest at moderate to strong speeds, with gusts of up to 85 km/h. These winds can further reduce horizontal visibility due to dust and sand.
UAE weather forecast: Cool weather followed by rain
As the rain eases over the weekend, temperatures are expected to drop significantly. Daytime highs are likely to drop to around 24°C in Dubai and 23°C in Abu Dhabi. Al Ain can see daytime temperatures of around 21°C, with nighttime 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, the heavy rain should largely ease off, leaving scattered clouds over northern and eastern areas. Sunday is expected to be calm, although a foggy morning could bring higher humidity in western parts of the country.
UAE Police Advice
Heavy rain and blown dust reduced visibility and police in Dubai and Abu Dhabi issued strong safety warnings. Along with the slippery road, motorists also face severe penalties for risky behavior.
Officials listed several “non-negotiable” rules during the storm:
- Entering flooded valleys: Entering a closed road or flooded wadi can result in a fine of Dh2,000, 23 black points and impoundment of the vehicle for 60 days.
- Obstructing emergency services: Obstructing emergency services or traffic workers is punishable by a Dh1,000 fine and 60-day confiscation.
- Using phones while driving: Recording rain or thunderstorms while driving can result in a Dh800 fine and four black points.
- Gathering at dams: Standing near flooded valleys or dams and watching the water flow can cost Dh1,000 and six black points.
UAE weather: Travel warning as airport rush peaks
The bad weather comes at a busy time for Dubai International Airport (DXB), which is expecting a record 8.7 million passengers this month. Travelers are advised to leave much earlier than usual due to possible traffic delays on major roads such as the E11 and E311.
While flights are generally expected to operate normally, severe thunderstorms could still cause minor delays or temporary delays.
At sea, conditions are more serious. The NCM warned of “rough to very rough” seas in the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. Winds can reach speeds of up to 65 km/h, raising sand and creating high waves. Boat owners and marine enthusiasts have been told to stay ashore until conditions improve.