Weather forecasts indicate that temperatures across the UAE are set to decline by as much as 8°C, as a cold spell moves in, marking the start of what is expected to be the chilliest stretch of the winter season.
Temperatures in UAE Expected to Fall by Up to 8°C With Incoming Cold Spell.
Residents across the UAE are being advised to prepare for a noticeable shift in weather conditions as the latter half of January ushers in what meteorologists describe as one of the most significant cold spells of the season. After weeks of relatively stable winter temperatures, the coming days are expected to bring a sharp and rapid cooling trend that many residents will feel within a very short timeframe.
According to weather specialists at the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), a surge of colder air moving southward is set to affect large parts of the country, triggering a marked drop in daytime and nighttime temperatures. Forecast models indicate that the mercury could fall by as much as seven to eight degrees Celsius across multiple regions over just two days, making this one of the most abrupt temperature declines experienced so far this winter.
Cold air mass to reach UAE midweek
Dr Ahmed Habib, a meteorologist with the NCM, explained that the change in weather conditions will begin around the middle of the week, driven by a shift in prevailing wind patterns. The UAE is expected to come under the influence of cooler air masses advancing from northern latitudes, carried by north-westerly winds that will gradually intensify.
“This weather system will begin affecting the country from January 15,” Habib said, noting that the initial cooling will be felt first in western areas before spreading eastward and southward. “As the colder air arrives, temperatures will begin to decline steadily across different regions.”
The gradual onset may give way to more pronounced cooling as the system strengthens. Western regions are forecast to experience the earliest drop, followed by a wider temperature decrease across inland, coastal, and mountainous areas.
Step-by-step temperature decline
Meteorological data suggests that on the first day of the cold spell, western parts of the UAE could see temperatures fall by approximately three to four degrees Celsius. This will then be followed by a sharper decline across the rest of the country.
“By the second day, temperatures in many areas could decrease by an additional four to five degrees,” Habib explained. “When taken together, the overall drop across January 15 and 16 could total seven to eight degrees Celsius in some locations.”
This rapid cooling is expected to be particularly noticeable for residents accustomed to the UAE’s relatively mild winter climate, especially during the early mornings and late evenings.
Mountain regions to feel the cold most
While the cooler conditions will be felt nationwide, those living in or traveling to elevated and mountainous regions should be prepared for significantly colder weather. According to the NCM, temperatures in these areas may dip below the 10°C mark, particularly during the early morning hours.
“In mountainous zones, temperatures could fall to between 5°C and 7°C before sunrise,” Habib said. Such conditions may feel especially cold when combined with increased wind speeds, prompting authorities to advise residents and visitors to take appropriate precautions.
Coastal areas remain milder, but cooler than usual
By contrast, coastal cities and communities are expected to experience less dramatic cooling, though conditions will still be noticeably cooler than earlier in the month. Daytime temperatures along the coast are forecast to hover between 20°C and 22°C, offering relatively mild conditions compared to inland regions.
“In coastal zones, temperatures are unlikely to fall as sharply as they will inland,” Habib noted. “While there may be brief dips below 20°C, these will be short-lived.”
Internal areas, including parts of the desert and inland emirates, are expected to experience a greater drop, with daytime temperatures ranging between 22°C and 24°C, and nighttime readings potentially falling below 10°C in some locations.
“Places such as inland Ajman and other desert areas may see much cooler nights,” he said, adding that such drops are far less likely along the coast due to moderating influences.
Why inland regions cool faster than coastal areas
Meteorologists attribute the difference in temperature behavior between coastal and inland regions to the thermal properties of seawater. Habib explained that the sea plays a crucial role in regulating air temperatures near the coast.
“Water heats up slowly during the day and releases heat gradually at night,” he said. “This process helps stabilize temperatures in coastal areas, preventing sudden drops.”
In contrast, desert sand and dry land lose heat rapidly once the sun sets. As a result, inland and desert areas cool much more quickly after sunset, leading to sharper nighttime temperature declines.
“This is why inland and desert regions experience colder nights compared to coastal cities, especially during winter cold spells,” Habib added.
Winds to intensify the chill
In addition to falling temperatures, residents may also experience stronger winds during the coldest days of the week. North-westerly winds are expected to strengthen on January 15 and 16, occasionally becoming fresh to strong.
“These winds will increase the wind chill effect,” Habib said. “Even if the thermometer shows a certain temperature, it may feel colder due to the wind.”
The combination of cooler air and gusty winds could make outdoor conditions feel significantly colder than expected, particularly in open areas and at night.
Fog and visibility concerns
As temperatures drop, changing atmospheric conditions may also affect visibility, especially during the early morning hours. The NCM has indicated that there is a possibility of fog formation in internal and low-lying areas, beginning early Tuesday and potentially recurring over the following days.
“Fog is more likely to develop in inland regions during the early morning, particularly where humidity levels are higher,” Habib said.
Motorists are advised to exercise caution during these periods, as fog can reduce visibility on roads, increasing the risk of accidents.
Cloud cover and chance of rain
The cold spell may also bring increased cloud activity across parts of the country. Forecasts suggest fair to partly cloudy conditions at times, with low-level clouds forming over islands and certain coastal areas.
“On January 15, cloud cover is expected to increase, particularly over northern and eastern regions,” Habib explained. “These clouds may persist during the morning and daytime hours.”
There is also a possibility of light rainfall in select areas, especially in Ras Al Khaimah and northern parts of Fujairah. While widespread rain is not expected, some cities may experience brief periods of cloudiness and isolated showers.
What residents should expect
For many residents, the sudden change in weather may come as a surprise, especially after a period of relatively stable winter conditions. Authorities advise people to dress warmly, particularly during early mornings and evenings, and to be mindful of changing road conditions due to fog or reduced visibility.
Those planning outdoor activities, desert excursions, or mountain trips are encouraged to check updated weather forecasts and take necessary precautions.
A reminder of winter’s variability
While the UAE is known for its warm climate, winter weather can still bring notable fluctuations. This upcoming cold spell serves as a reminder that winter conditions in the region can shift quickly, influenced by regional and global weather patterns.
Meteorologists will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as conditions evolve. For now, residents can expect cooler days, colder nights, and a brief taste of winter at its sharpest before temperatures gradually stabilize again later in the month.
