UAE travel alert: Dense fog shrouds Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, delays flights and commutes
Authorities warn motorists and passengers to allow extra travel time
DUBAI – Early-morning fog across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has caused widespread travel disruption, affecting both air and road traffic.
Dense mist reduced visibility to a few hundred metres in parts of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, prompting authorities to issue travel advisories and implement safety measures.
Dubai International Airport recorded at least one flight diversion as airlines adjusted operations to cope with low-visibility conditions.
Airport delays
Airport operations in Dubai and Sharjah were slowed as teams enforced low-visibility procedures. Emirates reported delays for some arriving and departing flights, while flydubai confirmed select flights were delayed or diverted.
Sharjah Airport experienced at least 28 flight delays, mostly affecting Air Arabia, Indigo, and Air India Express services. Airlines urged passengers to check departure boards and online alerts to stay informed.
Road safety
Authorities activated fog warning systems on major highways, reducing speed limits and advising motorists to use hazard lights where visibility was limited. Abu Dhabi Police lowered speed limits to 80kph and issued public warnings, while Dubai Police increased patrols to prevent accidents.
#Alert #Fog_Alert #NCM pic.twitter.com/QgM9rKe2sq
— المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@ncmuae) February 23, 2026
Commuters reported journey times doubling, with traffic congestion particularly severe near construction zones and roundabouts. Residents highlighted the importance of safe driving practices during dense fog.
Weather forecast
Meteorologists warned that fog is likely to persist through Thursday, particularly during overnight and early-morning hours, due to high humidity and calm winds.
Aviation and traffic officials are coordinating closely to manage runway capacity and monitor road safety. Experts noted that winter fog events have become a recurring operational challenge in the UAE, especially for airports handling high volumes of early-morning departures.