Rain and Wind Expected in Parts of UAE Ahead of Diwali Weekend
Weather forecast predicts showers, high humidity, and winds up to 40km/h in eastern and northern UAE before Diwali.
Residents across the UAE should prepare for a mix of sun, clouds, and possible rain over the upcoming weekend, with precipitation most likely in the eastern and northern regions, the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has reported. However, Diwali celebrations on Sunday are expected to take place under mostly dry and partly cloudy skies.
The NCM attributed the unsettled weather to a weak surface pressure system combined with an extension of a weak upper-air low-pressure system. These conditions are fostering the development of convective clouds particularly over areas such as Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, the eastern coast of Sharjah, and the Hajar mountain range.
Thursday will feature fair to partly cloudy skies, with some convective cloud formation possible over northern and eastern parts, potentially leading to rain. Temperatures are predicted to reach the mid to high 30s Celsius inland and the low to mid 30s along the coast, while mountainous areas will remain cooler, with highs between the low 20s and around 31°C.
Humidity levels will rise overnight into Friday morning along coastal zones, reaching up to 90 percent, which may result in mist during the early hours.
Friday is expected to be the most unstable day of the weekend, with convective clouds developing in the afternoon over eastern and northern areas, increasing the likelihood of rain. Winds will strengthen, reaching speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour, which could cause blowing dust and reduce visibility. Sea conditions will vary from slight to moderate in the Arabian Gulf and remain slight in the Oman Sea.
Major urban centers away from rain-prone zones will experience hot and hazy conditions. AccuWeather forecasts highs near 36°C in Dubai and Abu Dhabi on Friday, with lows around 25-26°C. Sharjah is expected to have similar temperatures.
On Saturday, rain chances will decrease slightly, though convective clouds may still bring showers to eastern areas in the afternoon. Winds will be light to moderate, occasionally reaching up to 35 km/h, with seas remaining slight in both the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea. Saturday is predicted to be the hottest day of the weekend, with highs around 37°C in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah, and about 36°C in Dubai. Nighttime temperatures in Ras Al Khaimah will drop to approximately 19°C.
By Sunday, weather conditions are expected to stabilize with fair to partly cloudy skies and no rain forecasted. Temperatures will slightly decrease, with highs near 34°C in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, 35°C in Sharjah, and 36°C in Abu Dhabi, creating comfortable conditions for Diwali festivities.
Overall, the country will experience warm temperatures, especially inland, while mountainous areas remain cooler. High humidity levels will persist overnight and during early mornings along coastal regions, increasing the potential for mist and fog.
The NCM has advised motorists to exercise caution during early morning travel due to possible low visibility and to remain vigilant when driving in areas affected by rain or dust. Residents are encouraged to monitor official weather updates throughout the weekend.
What this means for you
- Expect possible rain and gusty winds in eastern and northern UAE areas over the weekend.
- Diwali celebrations on Sunday should have dry and partly cloudy weather.
- Motorists should drive carefully during early mornings due to potential low visibility from mist or dust.
- Stay updated with official weather forecasts from the National Centre of Meteorology.