UAE weather today: Dense fog sweeps Dubai and Abu Dhabi, drivers warned of hazards
Red and yellow warnings issued by national forecasters
DUBAI – Residents across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) woke to dense fog on Thursday morning, with visibility falling to extremely low levels in several areas including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Ajman.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) issued red and yellow alerts, warning of reduced horizontal visibility and hazardous road conditions due to moisture saturation and temperature inversion.
Motorists and commuters reported limited visibility on major highways, prompting officials to urge vigilance and adherence to safety instructions.
Met alerts
The NCM confirmed that visibility had dropped to below 50 metres in parts of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, particularly around Al Qusais, Al Muhaisnah, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and parts of Al Ain. Red alerts remained in effect until 10:30am, covering internal and coastal regions. Residents in Sharjah and Ajman also reported thick fog, with Dubai’s skyline landmarks such as Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab obscured by a thick layer of low-level clouds.
Throughout the early morning, forecasters monitored shifting air masses that intensified fog development, particularly over open desert areas and highways. Meteorologists advised drivers to avoid sudden braking, monitor speed limits and use fog lights instead of hazard warning lights.
Low visibility
In Dubai, dense fog formed low to the ground, making lane markings and surrounding vehicles barely visible in several arterial routes. The conditions were more severe along Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), Al Khail Road and Emirates Road, where fog clusters moved rapidly. Emergency alert systems from police authorities flashed on digital road signage, warning motorists to drive below posted limits.
Right now, Dubai basically looks like a scene out of a sci-fi movie. #dubai #dubaifog pic.twitter.com/jrBfRFvwwZ
— totomai (@totomai) November 20, 2025
Visibility also dipped in industrial and residential zones including Ras Al Khor, Al Barsha, and Jebel Ali. Heavy moisture accumulation near coastal areas resulted in temperature drops to 19°C in Dubai before dawn, increasing fog stability over extended periods.
Safety advised
Police forces across emirates reminded residents not to use hazard lights while driving, warning that it could mislead other drivers and conceal turning signals. The use of headlights on low beam was encouraged to improve vehicle detection without causing glare. Drivers were reminded to increase stopping distances, avoid overtaking, and monitor weather advisories regularly.
#TrafficUpdate | Dubai Police urges motorists to drive safely and cautiously due to low visibility caused by fog formation across some parts in #Dubai. pic.twitter.com/cvjXB2Sd4v
— Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) November 20, 2025
Authorities continue to track visibility levels and update alert systems. The fog is expected to lift gradually through the morning, although intermittent patches may reoccur in low-lying areas this week.