Weather authorities have forecast the arrival of the first phase of unstable conditions in Abu Dhabi and Dubai tonight, bringing possible rain, strong winds, and changing temperatures across the two cities.
Initial spell of unstable weather in Abu Dhabi, Dubai expected to arrive tonight
After midnight on Thursday, Abu Dhabi and Dubai are forecast to experience the first major phase of unstable weather in the UAE, with rainfall expected that may turn heavy at times. A senior official from the National Centre of Meteorology said the weather system will progress in multiple stages over the coming two days, bringing spells of rain, strong winds, and a chance of hail as a significant system passes through the area.
“The initial main phase of unstable conditions will start influencing Abu Dhabi and Dubai after midnight, producing rainfall of varying strength that may be heavy at times,” said Dr Ahmed Habib, senior meteorologist at the NCM.
He explained that the UAE is presently experiencing atmospheric instability, a situation that enables rain-bearing clouds to develop, strengthen, and release precipitation at any time during the day or night.
Dr Habib added that residents should remain alert as weather conditions may change rapidly, especially in open areas and on roads. Motorists were advised to drive carefully, reduce speed during rainfall, and maintain a safe distance between vehicles to avoid accidents caused by slippery surfaces and reduced visibility. He also urged people to stay away from valleys, flood-prone locations, and low-lying areas, as sudden water accumulation can pose serious risks. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will issue further updates as the weather system develops, encouraging the public to rely only on official sources for accurate information.
The meteorologist further explained that such weather patterns are common during seasonal transitions, when temperature differences and moisture levels increase across the region. These conditions create an environment suitable for cloud formation, thunderstorms, and occasional hail. Residents can expect cooler temperatures accompanied by gusty winds as the system progresses. Emergency and municipal services remain on standby to respond to any weather-related incidents. Officials also stressed the importance of preparedness, advising residents to plan travel carefully, secure loose outdoor items, and take necessary precautions until the unstable conditions ease.
“When meteorologists refer to unstable weather, it means cloud formations can appear and intensify at any moment, beginning today and continuing into tomorrow,” he clarified.
Habib explained that the current conditions are being driven by an upper-level low-pressure system interacting with a surface low, combined with unusually high moisture flowing in from both the Arabian Sea and the Red Sea.
“This mix creates a favourable setting for cloud development and rainfall, not only across the UAE but throughout the wider region,” he said, noting that heavy rain has already been recorded in parts of Saudi Arabia and nearby Gulf countries.
Light to moderate rain has already been observed in multiple locations, especially in northern and eastern areas of the UAE. “At the time of speaking, heavy rain accompanied by hail is affecting parts of Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah,” Habib said. “Dense cloud cover is also present over offshore islands and waters opposite Umm Al Quwain, as well as areas near Dubai.”
He added that these cloud clusters are slowly shifting eastward, ahead of the main weather phase anticipated later tonight.
“The primary wave linked to this system will initially impact western regions,” Habib said. “This is expected between approximately 5pm and 7pm in some outlying areas, before spreading across the country overnight.”
By around midnight, Abu Dhabi is forecast to come under the system’s influence. “From midnight onward, Abu Dhabi is likely to experience rainfall ranging from light to moderate, with occasional heavy spells,” he explained. “This phase is expected to last until early Friday morning.”
At the same time, the system is forecast to spread toward Dubai and the northern coastline. “Dubai will be affected after midnight, along with Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah,” Habib said. “All northern coastal regions can expect rainfall of varying intensity.”
Thunderstorms may accompany heavier rainfall in certain locations. “Within the more intense cloud formations, thunder, lightning and possible hail are expected, particularly where rainfall is strongest,” he added.
Habib also cautioned about strong, active winds associated with convective cloud activity. “These winds may significantly reduce horizontal visibility, especially in exposed or open areas,” he said. “They could also raise dust and cause unsecured objects or weak structures to shift.”
There is also a heightened risk of surface water accumulation. “With heavier rainfall, water pooling and valley runoff may occur in some areas,” he warned.
The main weather system is expected to gradually move out of the country by around midday on Friday. “After approximately 12pm, conditions should begin to clear across most areas,” Habib said, emphasising that exact timings may vary.
However, atmospheric instability will persist into the following day. “Later on Friday, renewed cloud formation is likely, mainly over Ras Al Khaimah, possibly extending into parts of Sharjah and northern Dubai,” he said. “This secondary phase should be less intense, though rainfall may still range from light to moderate, with occasional heavy pockets.”
Regarding rainfall totals, Habib said accurate measurements are difficult to predict. “At this stage, precise amounts cannot be specified, but notable rainfall is expected in certain locations,” he explained.
He stressed that the situation is seasonally typical. “This type of unstable weather is normal for this time of year,” he said.
Residents have been urged to monitor official weather advisories and take necessary precautions, especially during nighttime hours when the strongest effects are anticipated.
