UAE Prepares for Weather Transition with Incoming Low-Pressure System
Following weeks of consistently clear and dry skies, the United Arab Emirates is now gearing up for a notable shift in weather patterns. A weak low-pressure system is approaching from the eastern direction, promising to bring a change of pace to the region's atmospheric conditions. According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), residents should anticipate a move toward more unsettled weather starting from Friday, January 23, 2026.
Gradual Build-Up of Cloud Cover and Humidity
While the current weather remains fair to partly cloudy, a noticeable layer of cloud cover is gradually accumulating across the sky. This development signals the arrival of a more humid and somewhat unpredictable phase of the winter season. The atmospheric disturbance is influenced by a similar weak system in the upper atmosphere, meaning the desert's characteristic golden sunshine will now be interspersed with patches of grey cloudiness.
Although no severe storms are forecasted on the horizon, this weather pattern introduces a welcome variety to the season. It creates an ideal opportunity for outdoor activities before humidity levels are expected to spike overnight. The NCM has indicated that cloud cover will intensify further by Saturday night and Sunday, particularly affecting coastal and northern areas of the UAE.
Light Rainfall Opportunities and Temperature Variations
For those who have been waiting to use their umbrellas, the weekend might offer a light chance of precipitation. There is a tangible possibility of light rainfall during this period, especially over the islands and coastal regions. Recent days have already seen light rain in parts of the country, accompanied by slightly dipped temperatures, a pattern consistent with weak cloud systems passing through.
However, this does not suggest widespread storms or heavy downpours; rather, it points to gentle, wetting rain that may briefly interrupt outdoor plans. Temperatures across the UAE are showing significant variation depending on location. Coastal areas such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi are experiencing pleasant highs ranging from 19°C to 24°C, while internal regions might reach up to 25°C.
The real winter chill is most evident in the mountainous areas, where daytime temperatures struggle to exceed 16°C, and nighttime lows have been recorded between 5°C and 9°C. Earlier this week, Jebel Jais even registered a seasonal low of 0.2°C, underscoring the genuine winter nip that the UAE can experience.
Rising Humidity and Road Safety Considerations
One of the immediate impacts of this weather shift is the anticipated rise in humidity levels. Forecasters expect humidity to surge overnight and into Saturday morning, particularly in western areas. This increase often leads to the formation of mist or fog during the early hours, which can significantly reduce visibility for morning commuters.
To ensure a safe weekend, residents are encouraged to take several precautions:
- Stay Updated: Regularly monitor the NCM's "Red" and "Yellow" alerts before embarking on long drives.
- Drive Cautiously: Be prepared for sudden fog patches on major highways such as E11 and E311.
- Outdoor Preparation: If planning a desert camp, ensure gear is moisture-resistant to handle damp morning air.
Embracing the Unique Beauty of UAE Winter
This change in weather serves as a reminder of the distinctive beauty of a UAE winter. For many residents, the arrival of clouds and light drizzle is a celebrated event, often signaling the peak of "Karak tea season" and outdoor social gatherings. While the seas in the Arabian Gulf remain generally calm to moderate, refreshing winds reaching up to 35 km/h add a crisp feel to the air.
Whether the rain directly affects your neighborhood or merely teases from the clouds, it is a time to wrap up warmly and appreciate one of the rarest desert sights: a rainy day in the Emirates. This weather transition highlights the dynamic nature of the region's climate, offering a refreshing break from the usual arid conditions.
