Thursday, 15 January 2026| Dubai, UAE [ Posted at 10:04 pm, Updated at 16 January 2026, 2:43 pm]
UAE residents should get ready for a sharp change in the UAE weather today, Friday, January 16, as the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued a forecast warning of dusty conditions, strong winds, falling temperatures, and dangerous sea conditions across most parts of the country.
Dusty and Partly Cloudy Friday Across the UAE
Friday will be dusty and partly cloudy, with low clouds forming over coastal and northern areas. As winter weather strengthens, you can expect a noticeable drop in temperatures, especially during the evening and early morning hours.
Strong northwesterly winds will be a key feature of the day. Wind speeds are forecast at 15–30 km/h, but they may gust up to 60 km/h. However, they could cause blowing dust and sand. These conditions could lead to reduced horizontal visibility, especially on highways and open roads.
Motorists are advised to drive carefully, especially in desert and inland areas where dust can quickly reduce visibility.
Read more – UAE Weather Update: Humid Conditions, Rain Chances, Fog Alerts Issued Across Abu Dhabi and Dubai
Temperatures Set to Drop Sharply
The UAE weather will feel distinctly cooler across the UAE. In some inland regions, temperatures are expected to drop as low as 6°C. However, coastal and urban areas will stay milder. Here’s what major cities can expect:
- Dubai: High of 23°C, low of 19°C
- Abu Dhabi: High of 23°C, low of 18°C
- Sharjah: High of 22°C, low of 18°C
This cooler air is the beginning of an unsettled winter pattern expected to continue through the weekend.
Read more – UAE Weather Update: Fair to Partly Cloudy Conditions Expected
Very Rough Seas in the Arabian Gulf
The NCM has also warned of very rough sea conditions, especially in the Arabian Gulf, where waves are expected to be very rough to rough throughout Friday. However, the Oman Sea will also experience rough conditions.
Fishermen, sailors, and beachgoers are strongly advised to avoid marine activities and follow official maritime warnings. Sea conditions might pose serious risks to small boats and watercraft.
Read more – UAE Weather Update: Coldest Phase of Winter Sets In as Temperatures Dip Across the Country
Safety Advice from Authorities
It would be best to follow the following precautions:
- Follow official weather updates
- Avoid outdoor activities during dusty and windy conditions
- Drive cautiously due to reduced visibility
- Stay off the sea during rough marine conditions
What to Expect After Friday?
The NCM notes that unsettled weather will continue into the weekend. Here is the UAE weather forecast for the upcoming days:
- Saturday: Partly cloudy with moderate to fresh winds and rough seas
- Sunday: Humid morning with a chance of mist inland and intermittent cloud cover.
- Monday: Possibility of rainfall over coastal and northern areas, with a slow rise in temperatures
Final Words
The UAE weather will feel like winter at its strongest so far due to cooler temperatures, strong winds, dusty skies, and rough seas. Friday calls for extra alertness and preparedness for those who are commuting, heading outdoors, or planning coastal activities.
Stay warm, stay safe, and keep checking official NCM updates as conditions develop.
Read more – UAE Weather Update: Light Rain Possible as Cooler, Windier Conditions Approach
UAE Weather FAQs
1. What will the UAE weather be like today?
Tomorrow will be dusty and partly cloudy, with low clouds over some coastal and northern areas. Strong winds and cooler temperatures are expected across most of the UAE.
2. Will temperatures drop significantly on Friday?
Yes. Temperatures will drop noticeably. Some inland areas are seeing lows of around 6°C, while major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi will range between 18°C and 23°C.
3. Are strong winds expected in the UAE today?
Yes. Moderate to fresh northwesterly winds are forecast, reaching speeds of up to 60 km/h at times, which may cause blowing dust and sand.
4. Will dusty conditions affect visibility?
Dust and sand may reduce horizontal visibility, especially on highways, open roads, and inland areas. Drivers are advised to be cautious.
5. Is it safe to go to the beach or sea on Friday?
No. The sea will be very rough in the Arabian Gulf and rough in the Oman Sea. Marine activities are strongly discouraged.
Read more – Light Rain, Clouds and Fog Risk as Winter Pattern Continues
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