The United Arab Emirates is currently experiencing a significant spell of unstable weather, marked by rainfall, powerful winds, dropping temperatures, and turbulent seas. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) is actively monitoring the situation, issuing regular alerts that impact everything from road safety to marine activities.
Forecast and Rainfall Details Across Emirates
Forecasters have identified this as an unstable weather pattern, driven by convective clouds leading to intermittent and sometimes heavy showers. The conditions, featuring moderate to strong winds and skies ranging from partly cloudy to fully overcast, are predicted to last until at least Friday, with a slow improvement over the weekend.
The core of this "main rainfall wave" is expected between Thursday, December 18, and Friday, December 19. The system originated in the west and is progressing eastward across the nation.
Abu Dhabi is likely to see the most intense rain starting late Thursday night, with an estimated 16mm of rainfall accumulating through Friday.
In Dubai, a deluge of around 15mm is forecast for Friday, with peak intensity anticipated in the early morning hours between 4:00 AM and 6:00 AM.
The Northern and Eastern Emirates, including Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah, will continue to be affected. These areas have already received over 33mm of rain this week and face further convective cloud activity, thunderstorms, and a high chance of hail.
Authorities Issue Strict Safety Warnings and Fines
With visibility expected to reduce due to dust and rain, police forces in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have issued critical advisories. They have emphasized severe penalties for dangerous driving behavior during the storm.
Key traffic violations and their penalties include:
- Entering Flooded Valleys (Wadis): Driving into a closed road or flooded wadi is a serious offence, punishable by a Dh2,000 fine, 23 black points, and a 60-day vehicle impoundment.
- Obstructing Emergency Services: Hindering rescue or traffic officials can lead to a Dh1,000 fine and a 60-day vehicle impoundment.
- Using Phone to Record While Driving: Capturing videos or photos of the rain while driving results in an Dh800 fine and four black points.
- Gathering Near Dams or Valleys: Merely assembling near flooded areas to watch the water flow can incur a Dh1,000 fine and six black points.
Travel Disruptions and Marine Warnings
The adverse weather coincides with a busy travel period. Dubai International Airport (DXB) is projected to handle a record 8.7 million passengers this month. Travellers are strongly advised to leave for the airport much earlier than usual to account for potential delays on major highways like E11 and E311. While flight operations are robust, heavy thunderstorms may cause minor schedule changes.
Conditions at sea are particularly dangerous. The NCM has issued a "rough to very rough" warning for both the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. Winds could gust up to 65 km/h, creating hazardous conditions with high waves. All marine activities are strongly discouraged until the weather settles.
Cooler Temperatures to Follow the Rain
As the rainy system moves out by Saturday evening, a noticeable cold snap will grip the UAE. Daytime temperatures are set to fall significantly.
Dubai will see highs around 24°C, while Abu Dhabi will experience a high of about 23°C. Inland areas like Al Ain could see daytime temperatures as low as 21°C, with night-time temperatures dropping to a crisp 10°C.
By Sunday, the weather is expected to become much calmer, though humidity may rise, leading to possible morning mist in western regions.
