A drastic temperature drop is expected across the UAE as unstable weather brings heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong winds, and reduced visibility, creating hazardous conditions for residents and disrupting outdoor plans.
Drastic temperature drop expected as rain and thunder sweep across the UAE
Dubai and many areas across the UAE are preparing for a spell of turbulent weather next week, with conditions expected to range from light rain to intense showers, thunderstorms, hail, and a noticeable drop in temperatures.
According to forecasts, cloud formations will start increasing across the country on Friday, ushering in a prolonged weather system that is expected to reach its peak between December 16 and 19.
Speaking with Khaleej Times on Thursday, Dr. Ahmed Habib, a meteorologist at the National Center of Meteorology (NCM), explained that the changing weather will result from several systems interacting over the region.
He noted that from late Friday, the UAE will come under the influence of low-pressure extensions originating from the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea. These systems will channel large amounts of moisture from both seas toward the country.
Simultaneously, another upper-air low-pressure system is forecast to move southward from the northern Middle East toward the UAE. “As these systems combine, cloud formation will begin over Saudi Arabia on Friday night and gradually shift toward the eastern parts of the UAE by Saturday,” he said.
Dr. Habib added that this convergence will lead to early cloud development inland and offshore, before spreading toward coastal and northern regions on Sunday, resulting in rainfall of varying intensity—from moderate to heavy.
Scattered showers, shifting winds, dusty conditions
Residents can expect intermittent light rain as cloud formations continue to develop over various regions of the UAE. Dr. Habib noted that wind patterns will shift throughout the weekend, moving between south-easterly, north-easterly, and occasionally north-westerly directions.
While winds will generally remain mild to moderate, they may intensify near convective clouds — the same areas where blowing dust could reduce visibility over open landscapes.
According to Habib, the northern emirates are likely to experience the heaviest rainfall during the weekend.
“Rainfall on Saturday and Sunday will be more concentrated in the northern parts of the country,” he explained. He added that a new upper-level low-pressure system is also forming, with a surge of cold air traveling from northern Saudi Arabia toward the UAE. This shift is expected to heighten atmospheric instability.
Because of this, widespread cloud development and rain are anticipated across nearly all regions from the nights of December 15 through December 19.
He emphasized that the upcoming weather event — which will peak between December 16 and 19 — will be felt across the nation, including major urban centers.
“This time, areas such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai will also see rainfall,” he said.
However, the northern and eastern regions typically experience stronger localized weather patterns, meaning these areas could see heavier showers, thunderstorms, and even hail due to convective cloud activity. He added that winds may occasionally become strong, particularly over the sea, creating rough marine conditions. Fishermen and coastal residents are urged to be careful and avoid hazardous areas.
Authorities recommend that the public follow official weather advisories, stay away from areas with poor visibility, and take extra precautions near the shoreline as the UAE prepares for a windy, rainy stretch.
Temperatures set to drop as winter air settles in
In addition to the expected rain and thunderstorms, residents will also feel a significant dip in temperatures as the country moves deeper into its winter season.
According to forecasts, temperatures will drop noticeably on December 14 and 15. The cooler trend will continue on the 16th and 17th as increased cloud cover helps keep conditions mild.
Daytime highs are projected to hover around 26°C to 27°C, while nighttime lows may fall to between 12°C and 15°C.
