Heavy rain and hailstorms hit several UAE regions, damaging shops and causing valleys to flood, with fast-flowing wadis seen across affected areas, highlighting the impact of severe weather conditions.
Watch: Damaged stores, flowing wadis after intense rain, hail strike areas of UAE
Winter made a strong arrival across the UAE as people in several regions woke up to hail, intense rainfall, and cloudy skies, marking the beginning of unsettled weather conditions across the Emirates.
Eastern parts of the country, usually the first to be affected by such conditions, have already experienced flowing wadis and heavy rain since the early hours of Thursday, December 18.
According to the National Centre of Meteorology, unstable weather is expected to persist, with varying rainfall intensity accompanied by lightning, thunder, and hail in limited areas. These unsettled conditions are forecast to continue until Friday, December 19, 2025.
Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious during the unstable weather, particularly in areas prone to flooding and water accumulation. Motorists are urged to drive carefully, reduce speed, and avoid crossing flooded roads or wadis, as water levels can rise rapidly. Residents are also encouraged to stay updated through official weather advisories and follow safety instructions issued by local authorities. Outdoor activities may be disrupted due to sudden changes in weather conditions, including reduced visibility and slippery roads. Emergency services remain on alert to respond to any weather-related incidents, ensuring public safety throughout affected regions.
Weather experts noted that such winter systems are common during this time of year, especially in eastern and mountainous regions, where cloud build-up often leads to heavier rainfall and hail. The combination of cooler temperatures, cloud cover, and active weather systems contributes to fluctuating conditions across the country. Residents can expect cooler daytime temperatures alongside colder nights as the system progresses. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging the public to remain prepared and avoid unnecessary travel during peak rainfall periods to reduce risks and inconvenience.
In Ras Al Khaimah, intense rainfall and powerful winds damaged warehouses and commercial outlets, causing structural breakage and scattering sheets of metal cladding across surrounding roads.
The mountain-backed emirate also experienced hail and heavy downpours in urban locations such as the Corniche and Coral Island, accompanied by strong wind gusts. During the rainfall, temperatures across the country dropped sharply, reaching a low of 9.2°C at Jais Mountain at 3.45am.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) issued a yellow alert for rough sea conditions in the Sea of Oman, with wave heights forecast to reach up to six feet between 8am and 10pm today. Active northwesterly winds of up to 40km/h are also expected.
Similar weather conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds, were reported in Umm Al Quwain and Khor Fakkan.
Temperatures across the UAE are expected to range between 19°C and 28°C in Abu Dhabi, 19°C and 27°C in Dubai, and 18°C and 27°C in Sharjah.
A series of low-pressure systems affecting the Middle East has brought significant rainfall over the past week. Weather conditions are expected to intensify on Thursday, with thunderstorms forecast across the region. According to BBC Weather, the storm will impact Saudi Arabia during the day before moving east toward the UAE and Qatar later at night.
Police authorities across the UAE have issued safety advisories for residents, motorists, and delivery drivers due to hazardous weather conditions.
Dubai Police urged the public to avoid beaches and sailing activities, stay away from valleys, flood-prone zones, and low-lying areas, drive cautiously, and follow instructions issued by relevant authorities.
The authority also reminded residents of emergency contact numbers available during severe weather events.
Sharjah Police released a similar advisory, asking drivers to remain alert during rainfall, maintain safe distances, reduce speed due to higher accident risks, and avoid dams and valleys.
Abu Dhabi Police advised road users to check weather updates before travel, slow down, and keep adequate distance between vehicles. Motorists were warned against distractions such as taking photos while driving and reminded to strictly follow posted speed limits and electronic road guidance.
Meanwhile, delivery drivers in the Capital were instructed to fully comply with the suspension of movement and services during periods of unstable weather.
