The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued an advisory for UAE residents to stay alert to changing conditions as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) prepares for the new spell of unstable weather. According to the latest UAE weather forecast, cloudy skies, scattered showers, thunderstorms and even hail are expected across different parts of the Emirates from Friday through next week.
This extended period of unsettled weather is connected to a combination of low-pressure systems affecting the region. Hence, it has created ideal conditions for widespread rainfall and low temperatures.
Expert Analysis: Why the UAE Weather Will Turn Unstable
Meteorologists have revealed that the low pressure from both the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea has triggered instability in the UAE weather. Hence, it has pulled a significant amount of water vapour towards the UAE.
Ahmed Habib, meteorologist at the NCM, has revealed the following predictions:
- Cloud development will begin over Saudi Arabia on Friday night.
- These clouds will gradually move toward the eastern UAE by Saturday.
- Another low-pressure extension from the northern Middle East will increase atmospheric instability.
The combination of systems forms a multi-day weather cycle peaking between December 16 and 19. Hence, it will bring heavier downpours, thunder and possible hail, especially in northern and eastern regions.
Friday: Cloudy Skies and Light Showers Expected
Conditions across the UAE will be fair to partly cloudy. However, the conditions could turn increasingly cloudy by night over Coastal areas, islands, and northern areas. Moreover, light to moderate wind (10–20 km/h, reaching 35 km/h) might freshen at times, which could cause slight to moderate sea conditions in the Arabian Gulf and the Oman Sea.
Weekend UAE Weather Forecast: Rising Humidity, Fog Risk and Widespread Rain
The UAE weekend weather is expected to bring increased cloud cover, a chance of rain, and early morning fog due to higher humidity. Moreover, scattered rain will primarily affect the following regions:
- Dubai
- Fujairah
- Ras Al Khaimah
- Northern Emirates
According to the NCM’s update bulletin, heavy rain is also possible in parts of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and coastal areas on Sunday.
December 16–19: Peak of the Weather Cycle—Thunder, Hail and Intense Rain
The unstable weather pattern is going to continue from Monday to Thursday. Hence, experts have warned of the following conditions:
- Heavy downpours
- Thunder and lightning
- Possible hail, especially in mountainous and northern areas
- Strong convective cloud formation
Another upper-air low-pressure system combined with a cold air mass from northern Saudi Arabia will intensify the atmosphere to make conditions more unpredictable. Therefore, rainfall is expected across the entire country. However, the northern and eastern UAE might experience more severe localised effects because thunderstorms and hail are highly likely.
Temperature Drop & Sea Conditions
Temperature will dip slightly from mid-week, as the daytime highs could fall to the mid-20s °C range. However, this temperature is normal in December. Moreover, nights will feel cooler in the upcoming days. In addition, seas may become moderate to rough during cloud activity, especially near the Arabian Gulf.
The NCM climate statistics show that the UAE normally records 8.7 mm of rain in December. However, this upcoming UAE rain could exceed typical levels. Hence, it highlights how stormy days have become more common due to climate change.
NCM Safety Advisory for Residents
Authorities have requested drivers and residents to stay alert. Below are the top tips that you should follow in this condition:
- Expect reduced visibility during fog and heavy rain.
- Drive slowly and avoid flooded areas.
- Follow official NCM updates for real-time alerts.
- Secure outdoor items due to potential wind gusts.
As a resident, you should stay prepared for rapid changes as the UAE weather forecast indicates continuous instability from Friday until next week.
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