UAE cold spell hits 0.2°C, Jebel Jais records winter’s lowest temperature

Frost-like conditions reported across Ras Al Khaimah and surrounding regions

UAE winter
Caption: UAE experiences lowest winter temperature of 0.2°C as Jebel Jais hits near-freezing.
Source: Photo for illustrative purpose


DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) today experienced one of its coldest mornings this winter, with temperatures dropping sharply across the country.

Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah recorded the lowest temperature of 0.2°C at 5.45am, marking near-freezing conditions and a clear sign of the ongoing cold spell.

Meteorologists attributed the sharp dip to northerly winds, which have swept across elevated and inland areas, pushing temperatures down and bringing frost-like conditions to the mountain regions.

Lowest temperatures

The National Centre of Meteorology confirmed the following readings early today:

Area Temperature Time Recorded
Jais Mountain 0.2°C 05:45am
Mebreh Mountain 3.1°C 05:15am
Jabal Al Rahba 3.2°C 06:45am
Raknah 4°C 07:15am
Hafeet Mountain 6.7°C 05:30am


Mountain frost

Residents of mountainous regions reported biting winds and frost-like conditions, prompting authorities to advise caution for early commuters due to reduced visibility and slippery roads.

This dip, while severe, is not the UAE’s coldest on record. In 2017, Jebel Jais recorded a historic low of -5.7°C, with snow blanketing the mountain’s summit. Other parts of the country, such as Raknah, have previously dipped below zero, including a -1.7°C reading in 2021.

Cold spell continues

The UAE’s Meteorological Department had forecast a cold spell for the second half of January. Residents are advised to monitor weather updates as the nation braces for continued chilly mornings, particularly in high-altitude and inland regions.