Experts discuss the risks of staying in Dubai without air conditioning due to extreme heat

August 1, 11:00

Dubai is known for its luxurious lifestyle and tall buildings, but it also faces a serious problem—extreme heat. In some areas of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), temperatures reach 45–50 degrees Celsius during the summer. Increased humidity makes the impact of the heat on the body even more pronounced.

Therefore, the question often arises as to how long one can stay in Dubai without using air conditioning. Specialists note that there is no definitive answer; it depends on numerous factors, including the person's age, health condition, hydration level, intensity of solar radiation, and air humidity.

According to Dr. Yazan Koujhan, a general practitioner at Medcare Medical Centre, the effects of heat in the UAE can occur very quickly. He explained that due to high temperature and humidity, the body cannot cool down effectively despite sweating. This significantly increases the risk of developing heat exhaustion, and subsequently, heatstroke. Initial symptoms include dizziness, profuse sweating, headache, nausea, weakness, and muscle spasms. If the condition does not improve after resting, drinking water, and being in a cool place, immediate medical attention is necessary.

Dr. Marisa Fernando, a family physician at Burjeel Medical Centre – Silicon Central Mall, Dubai, advised readers to change their daily routine during the hot season to ensure safety. She recommended exercising or working outdoors early in the morning or after sunset. It is important to avoid direct sunlight during the day, drink water regularly, and use a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen when going outside.

Overall, experts emphasize that air conditioning systems in Dubai are installed in shopping malls, metro stations, offices, and most public places precisely so that people can protect themselves from the intense heat. If a person experiences symptoms such as confusion, fainting, vomiting, or an abnormal rise in body temperature in hot conditions, this should be considered heatstroke requiring immediate medical care.

Thus, there is no specific time limit for staying without air conditioning, but doctors agree that neglecting extreme heat can be dangerous. The best protection lies in adequate fluid intake, sun protection, and timely movement to cooler indoor spaces.

www.khaleejtimes.comJuly 30, 15:14

Dubai Police Camp Fosters Disciplined Children by Limiting Phone Use

Unlike many children for whom summer vacation means sleeping late, spending long hours on phones, and staying at home, hundreds of students who completed the Dubai Police Summer Student Program in 2026 on Thursday were able to use this break to develop confidence, discipline, and strong friendships.

Ceremony and Training

The graduation ceremony was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Commander-in-Chief of the Dubai Police. It marked the completion of several weeks of intensive training, which included physical fitness, military drills, sports events, and character-building sessions that, according to students and parents, had a significant impact.

Participants' Views

Ali Mohammed noted that the program taught him more than just physical fitness. He emphasized: 'The most important lessons I learned are discipline and respect. These are values that will stay with me and help me in the future, especially if I decide to join the army or work in public service.'

Each day started early with training, after which students moved on to military drills where they mastered marching techniques, formations, and teamwork. Ali added: 'I liked the military training the most. We learned to march, salute, and work together. I definitely want to return next year because I know I will learn even more.'

Rashid Jamal Al Khalifa shared a similar experience, stating that the program contributed to his physical and mental growth. He remarked: 'It taught us how to build a strong character and take responsibility seriously. Military exercises and sports activities were my favorite part.'

Qawtar Ali highlighted the structured daily routine as one of the main positive aspects. She said: 'The program taught me selflessness and discipline. Every day started with sports, followed by physical fitness, taekwondo, and military events. This maintained our activity and taught us to be organized.'

Changes After Returning Home

While the students themselves spoke about the skills acquired, parents noted that the most noticeable changes began to appear after the children returned home. Hadija Ibrahim said that the program replaced a summer that could have easily been spent in front of screens. She explained: 'If they hadn't joined the program, they would have been sitting at home on phones and tablets. Instead, they spent their days exercising, learning discipline, and participating in meaningful activities. This is much better than staying at home.'

Hadija enrolled her children in the program after hearing positive reviews from a relative whose child had previously participated. She added: 'We heard so many good things about it, so we decided to register them too. We will definitely do it again.'

Moza, whose brothers graduated from the program for the second consecutive year, noted that the difference in their character is undeniable. She expressed pride: 'I am proud of them. This is their second year graduating, and they have changed so much.' When asked what surprised her the most, she replied: 'They became calmer, more mature, and more responsible than before.'

Re-participation and Atmosphere

One of the messages conveyed during the ceremony was that many of the students were not first-time participants. Several people reported returning for their second or even third year, which attests to the high value of this experience. Mariam, who attended the event, said that the atmosphere reflected months of intense work. She shared: 'I was genuinely surprised by the number of students and the energy in the hall. You could truly see how proud they were to be there. Everyone was excited, and it seemed like all the effort they put into the program paid off.'

Mariam also noted that during conversations with the students, she was told that almost every one of them was not participating for the first time. Many were returning for their second or third year, which, in her opinion, says a lot about how much they genuinely enjoy the program and want to continue because of the environment it creates.

Deeper Outcomes of the Program

Beyond drills, sports, and the daily routine, the program seemingly gave the students something more valuable: an enhanced sense of purpose, confidence, and responsibility. For many parents, this transformation was the real graduation achievement. They returned home not only with a certificate but also with new habits, greater discipline, and lessons that could shape them long after the summer break ended.

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