UAE braces for rising temperatures and dusty winds
Light rainfall expected in western and eastern areas
DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to experience a rise in temperatures accompanied by dusty winds and partly cloudy skies over the coming days, according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM).
Weather conditions are being shaped by a combination of atmospheric systems, while ongoing cloud seeding operations continue to influence rainfall patterns, as reported by Al Khaleej newspaper.
The NCM has forecast generally fair to partly cloudy weather, with light to moderate winds that may freshen at intervals, causing blowing dust. Sea conditions across the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea are expected to vary, occasionally turning rough, particularly offshore.
Rising heat
Temperatures are projected to climb steadily, with highs reaching up to 43°C in internal areas. Coastal regions are likely to experience elevated humidity levels, adding to the intensity of the heat. According to the NCM, the current weather pattern is influenced by an extension of a weak surface low-pressure system from the east, interacting with a high-pressure system from the west and an upper-level high-pressure extension.
#أقل_درجة_حرارة سجلت على الدولة صباح هذا اليوم 17.4 درجة مئوية على ركنة (العين) الساعة 05:30 بالتوقيت المحلي لدولة الإمارات.#The_lowest_temperature recorded over the country this morning is 17.4°C in Raknah (Al Ain) at 05:30 UAE Local time. pic.twitter.com/Fp1nyzoR1I
— المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@ncmuae) April 27, 2026
Looking ahead, similar conditions are expected to persist through Friday. Temperatures are forecast to peak further on Wednesday before easing slightly on Thursday, especially across western parts of the country.
Dusty winds
Winds across the UAE will remain predominantly north-easterly to north-westerly, with speeds reaching up to 40 km/h at times. These winds are likely to stir up dust and sand, reducing visibility in exposed areas.
#تنبيه #حالة_البحر #بحر_عمان #المركز_الوطني_للأرصاد#Sea #Sea_Alert #Oman_Sea #NCM pic.twitter.com/ujKXYSxtRD
— المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@ncmuae) April 26, 2026
Marine conditions will fluctuate between slight and moderate, becoming rough offshore in the Arabian Gulf during certain periods. Residents and mariners have been advised to remain cautious as conditions may change rapidly.
Cloud seeding
Alongside these weather developments, the NCM has conducted around 80 cloud seeding missions since the start of 2026. The initiative forms part of the UAE’s broader strategy to enhance rainfall and strengthen water reserves in its arid climate.
Dr Mohammed Al Abri, Director of Meteorology at the NCM, said the operations are limited to convective clouds that are suitable for seeding. He explained that not all cloud formations can be targeted, noting that stratiform clouds present in some areas are unsuitable for seeding, as reported by Al Khaleej.
This selective approach helps explain variations in rainfall intensity across different regions. Some areas may receive heavier showers, while others experience little to no precipitation, depending on the movement and development of cloud systems.
Rain outlook
Light rainfall is expected in the coming days due to a shallow low-pressure system in the upper atmosphere. The NCM indicated that rainfall chances will be concentrated mainly over western and eastern parts of the country.
According to NCM, cloud seeding operations will continue throughout 2026 and beyond, depending on the availability of suitable atmospheric conditions. The process relies on the presence of convective clouds with upward air currents and vertical development rather than following a fixed seasonal schedule.
The programme remains a key component of national efforts to increase rainfall, replenish groundwater reserves and enhance long-term water security, particularly as weather patterns continue to fluctuate in intensity from year to year.