Dubai: A layer of desert dust is sweeping across the UAE today, prompting nationwide weather warnings as high-velocity winds disrupt weekend travel and churn coastal waters into dangerous territory.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued an urgent advisory lasting through Saturday. Strong northwesterly gales peaking at 50km/h are expected to severely reduce visibility on major highways, turning the daytime commute into a hazardous drive.
Strong winds: Avoid beach activities
Stay cautious of windy conditions today, as strong southwesterly to northwesterly winds, averaging speeds of 15 to 30km/h, will reach up to 50km/h in coastal regions, and 45km/h in internal areas. These strong winds are expected to severely impact the sea. A marine warning is currently in place for the Arabian Gulf:
Arabian Gulf: Conditions will be rough to very rough throughout the day, with wave heights reaching peak swells of 8 to 10 feet. Residents are urged to completely avoid beach activities.
Oman Sea: In contrast, the eastern coast will remain calm, with slight sea conditions and gentle waves peaking at a maximum height of three feet.
Dubai and Sharjah are seeing peak temperatures of 40°C, while Abu Dhabi will cap at 37°C, before dropping into the late 20s overnight. Internal regions will be much hotter, with Al Ain seeing highs of 43°C and Liwa peaking at 44°C in the daytime.
Weekend outlook
Dusty conditions are expected to persist into Saturday, with fresh winds continuing to blow dust and sand across parts of the country. Humidity will increase overnight and into Sunday morning, particularly along coastal areas. The Arabian Gulf is expected to remain rough throughout the weekend, especially in the western region.
By Sunday, temperatures are expected to begin rising again, although winds will gradually ease. Dust may still affect the western regions at times, but overall conditions should become more stable heading into the start of next week.
Here is the complete breakdown of minimum and maximum temperatures across the Emirates today:
Maximum Temp (°C) Minimum Temp (°C)
Dubai 40°C 29°C
Abu Dhabi 37°C 28°C
Al Ain 43°C 27°C
Sharjah 40°C 30°C
Ajman 38°C 28°C
Fujairah 37°C 31°C
Ras Al Khaimah 42°C 29°C
Umm Al Quwain 40°C 26°C
Liwa 44°C 25°C