Residents of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) anticipate relief after a long and hot summer, as meteorologists predict changes in weather conditions in the coming days. A decrease in temperature, increased wind, and the possibility of precipitation in some parts of the country are expected.
The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) reported that the UAE is entering a period of climatic change. Initially, southerly winds, dust, and reduced visibility are expected, followed by northwesterly winds leading to a noticeable drop in temperature.
Mohammed Al Ebri, Director of NCM, stated in an interview with Khaleej Times on Tuesday that the country will be under the influence of southerly winds until Wednesday, and dustiness will persist that day.
Changes are expected starting Thursday, when the impact of fresh northwesterly winds is forecast. These winds may also cause dust and poor visibility in certain areas.
The most noticeable change for residents accustomed to intense heat and humidity in the summer will be the drop in temperature. Al Ebri noted that starting Thursday, thanks to the northwesterly winds, the temperature could decrease by approximately 4–5°C.
As the weather pattern changes, the probability of fog and haze increases. The meteorologist added that fog or haze is expected on Wednesday, Thursday, and even afterward, explaining this as 'a normal picture at the end of summer in the UAE,' when the ground begins to cool while humidity remains high, promoting fog formation.
The transition of the UAE out of its peak summer period is gradual, not sudden. Although temperatures usually begin to drop towards the end of August and September, residents should expect warm weather to persist. NCM specified that summer in the UAE ends around September 23rd, and although temperatures will fall, it will remain warm.
The return of cooler mornings and evenings will take time, and humidity will continue to affect the perception of the weather. Rain is also possible in the coming days, although it is not expected across the entire country. Al Ebri reported that rain is expected on Friday and Saturday with cumulonimbus cloud cover, especially in the eastern and southern regions of the country.
Precipitation is expected to be moderate or light, although heavy rain is possible in isolated spots, particularly in the east and south of the UAE.
Looking further ahead, NCM also warned about the potential influence of El Niño in the upcoming winter. The seasonal forecast indicated that El Niño conditions could persist for at least until the end of 2026. However, long-term forecasts should be considered separately from short-term weather predictions. Al Ebri added that the winter forecast is long-term and suggests potentially variable conditions from December to March.
