UAE weather alert: Rain hits parts of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah

Motorists advised to follow safety measures and avoid risky routes and waterlogged areas

UAE weather
Caption: The UAE weather alert brings rain, strong winds and dust across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, with authorities urging motorists to drive cautiously.
Source: File photo


DUBAI – A fresh spell of unsettled weather has brought scattered rainfall across parts of the UAE, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, prompting authorities to issue a weather alert.

The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has warned that convective cloud formation is generating showers of light to moderate intensity, which may become heavy at times. These conditions are also accompanied by fresh to strong winds capable of raising dust, further reducing visibility on the roads.

The alert highlights a period of unstable weather affecting several regions simultaneously, with residents advised to remain vigilant while travelling.

Authorities across the country have stepped up guidance to ensure public safety as wet conditions continue to impact daily movement.

Rain

Scattered showers have been reported across Umm Al Quwain and Sharjah, while light rainfall has been observed in multiple areas of Dubai, including Dubai Investment Park 2, Al Quoz, Dubai Silicon Oasis and Al Warsan.

The rainfall is part of a wider system influencing several emirates, with clouds forming and dispersing at intervals.

According to NCM, the weather system is expected to continue bringing variable conditions, with rainfall intensity fluctuating between light and moderate levels.

Some areas may experience brief periods of heavier rain as convective clouds develop. The combination of rain and wind is also contributing to dusty conditions in certain locations.

Weather outlook

The NCM issued the rain alert at 7.20am on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, with the advisory remaining in effect until 12.20am on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. This timeframe marks a window during which weather conditions are expected to remain unstable across scattered regions of the country.

Meteorological updates indicate that the current spell of rain is expected to persist for two days, in line with earlier forecasts. While the showers are noticeable, authorities have indicated that the intensity is not comparable to the heavier downpours experienced in the previous week. The variation in intensity reflects shifting atmospheric conditions and the movement of cloud clusters across the region.

Safety guidance

Authorities have emphasised road safety as a key priority during this period of rainfall. Reduced visibility due to both rain and dust presents a heightened risk for motorists, especially during peak travel hours. Drivers are being urged to reduce speed, maintain safe distances, and avoid sudden manoeuvres on wet roads.

Dubai Police have reiterated the importance of checking vehicles before setting off, ensuring that brakes, tyres, lights and wipers are in proper working condition. Motorists are also advised to monitor speed limits, remain attentive, and follow traffic rules to minimise risks on slippery surfaces.

Abu Dhabi Police have called on drivers to adhere to changing speed limits displayed on electronic boards, highlighting the need for flexibility as conditions evolve.

Sharjah Police have urged motorists to avoid valleys, dams and areas prone to water accumulation, warning against driving through potentially hazardous zones.

Authorities across the UAE continue to monitor the situation closely, with updates expected as the weather system progresses. Residents are encouraged to plan journeys carefully, allow additional travel time, and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavier rainfall.