The United Arab Emirates is gearing up for a spell of unsettled winter weather that is expected to bring clouds, light rain, gusty winds and even blowing dust over the coming days, a marked shift from the typically dry winter skies residents are used to. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) says a low-pressure system moving across the region is behind the unstable conditions forecast through much of the week.
Weather conditions across the UAE today will be partly cloudy to cloudy at times, particularly over coastal, northern and eastern regions, with a chance of rainfall in some areas. Winds are expected to be light to moderate, but may strengthen at intervals, stirring up dust in open areas and briefly reducing visibility.
Adding to the wintry feel, the lowest temperature in the country this morning dropped to 5.8°C, recorded at Jais Mountain in Ras Al Khaimah at 4am, underscoring the cooler conditions gripping the northern mountainous areas as the UAE experiences its winter peak.
#أقل_درجة_حرارة سجلت على الدولة صباح هذا اليوم 5.8 درجة مئوية على جبل جيس (رأس الخيمة) الساعة 04:00 بالتوقيت المحلي لدولة الإمارات.#The_lowest_temperature recorded over the country this morning is 5.8°C in Jais Mountain (Ras Al Khaimah) at 04:00 UAE Local Time. pic.twitter.com/XI4XU8Dz1x
— المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@ncmuae) January 25, 2026
This change in weather comes amid an overall pattern of winter variability, with cooler temperatures in the mountains and partly cloudy skies near the coast. Daytime highs will still be mild, in the mid-20s Celsius but residents should prepare for intermittent rain, dropping temperatures, humidity overnight and dust-raising winds.
What the UAE weather forecast says
According to the latest weather outlook from the NCM -
-
Cloud Cover and Rain Chances: Skies are expected to be partly cloudy to cloudy at times across coastal, northern and eastern areas. Light rain is possible on days such as Monday, with morning rainfall and cooler daytime temperatures forecast. Cloudiness may persist into midweek before stabilising later on.
-
Winds and Dust: Winds will generally be light to moderate, but may pick up in gusts, potentially reaching up to 40 km/h, especially later in the forecast period. Gusty winds will lift dust and sand, particularly in open areas, reducing visibility at times and affecting outdoor activities.
-
Humidity and Mist: Overnight humidity will increase, raising the possibility of mist or fog, especially in coastal and inland areas early in the week. These conditions could persist through Wednesday or Thursday before easing.
-
Sea Conditions: The Arabian Gulf may see rougher seas before conditions gradually ease, particularly if cloud cover and wind speeds remain elevated. By mid-week, forecasters expect weather to stabilise with fair to partly cloudy skies, although low cloud and mist may linger over parts of the country.
What UAE residents need to know
Unsettled weather can affect daily routines, especially travel. Light rain or mist in the mornings may lead to slippery roads and reduced visibility for motorists, and gusty winds could impact driving conditions in exposed areas. Drivers should stay alert and adjust speeds accordingly. Recent traffic safety guides note that rainy or unstable conditions can lead to longer braking distances and recommend extra caution behind the wheel, particularly in reduced visibility or wet roads.
Dust-raising winds and sudden cloud build-ups can disrupt outdoor plans, from sporting events to picnics. Although daytime temperatures remain pleasant for winter, blown dust can cause air quality dips and eye or respiratory irritation, especially for sensitive individuals such as children and those with asthma.
For marine enthusiasts and sailors, the forecast suggests a need for caution. Rougher seas in the Arabian Gulf could make conditions choppy for small boats and swimmers. Coastal communities and marinas should monitor updates from the NCM before heading out on the water.
Unsettled winters in UAE: A growing pattern?
Unusual bouts of winter rain and unstable weather are not unprecedented in the UAE. Historical data show the country has seen dynamic winter patterns caused by low-pressure systems and shifting wind currents, leading to intermittent rainfall, dust storms and cloudy spells. A February 2025 report noted similar patterns of wind, dust and rain due to low-pressure systems and Shamal winds.
In fact, the UAE occasionally records rare weather events — such as heavy rainfall and low temperatures high in the mountains — that remind residents that winter in the Gulf can be more variable than assumed.
Safety tips for UAE residents
In light of the unsettled forecast, here are some practical tips UAE residents should consider:
- Slow down and allow extra braking distance in rain or mist.
- Use headlights and fog lights appropriately.
- Stay updated on road advisories from local authorities.
- Monitor air quality if winds kick up dust, especially for children and the elderly.
- Postpone strenuous outdoor events if winds become gusty.
- Check sea condition reports before sailing or swimming, rougher waters are possible.
- Avoid small craft outings during peak wind gusts.
- Follow updates from the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) and official weather channels to get the latest advisories as conditions evolve.
Bottom line
As the UAE’s winter unfolds, residents should be prepared for a mix of cooler temperatures, intermittent rain and changing wind patterns before clearer skies return later in the week. While these conditions may not disrupt life dramatically, they highlight how quickly weather, even in an otherwise arid region, can shift with atmospheric systems passing through.
Whether you are planning a beach day, a road trip, or simply a morning commute, staying ahead of the forecast and adjusting plans accordingly will help ensure safety and comfort during this unsettled weather period.
