UAE braces for cooler temperatures and unstable weather this weekend
Coastal areas see low clouds and gusty winds
DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is experiencing unsettled winter weather today, with partly cloudy skies, strong northwesterly winds and very rough seas, the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) reported.
A surface low-pressure system from the east is interacting with a high-pressure system moving in from the west, causing variable conditions across the country.
Coastal and internal regions alike may experience low clouds, humidity and gusty winds as temperatures remain mild for this time of year.
Temperature range
Temperatures today are mild along the coast, ranging between 20°C and 24°C, with inland areas reaching up to 26°C. Overnight lows may drop to 6°C in internal areas. Mountain regions will remain cooler, with daytime highs between 16°C and 20°C.
Sea conditions
Seas are expected to remain turbulent throughout Saturday. The Arabian Gulf faces very rough conditions, while the Oman Sea may see rough to moderate waves. Mariners are advised to exercise caution, especially in open waters.
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— المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@ncmuae) January 17, 2026
The NCM has urged the public to follow official weather updates and exercise caution, particularly during dusty periods and in rough sea conditions.
Weekend weather outlook
Low clouds are expected over coastal, northern and eastern areas, while internal regions may see rising humidity overnight and into Sunday morning. Winds are forecast to be moderate to fresh, becoming strong at times, particularly over open waters. Sea conditions are very rough in the Arabian Gulf and rough to moderate in the Oman Sea.
On Sunday, skies will remain partly cloudy, particularly along the coast and northern areas. Inland regions may experience fog or mist overnight. Winds will ease slightly, though seas may remain rough during the morning hours.
By Monday, temperatures are forecast to rise gradually as intermittent cloud cover spreads across coastal and northern regions. Humidity is expected to persist overnight, while sea conditions are likely to calm.