UAE issues weather alert after temperatures fall to 18°C

On Sunday, January 18, 2026, the UAE will see a continuation of winter-like conditions, with temperatures remaining mild to cool for this time of year. Residents can expect highs not exceeding around 25°C, while overnight lows could dip into the upper teens, around 18°C in Abu Dhabi and 19°C in Dubai, according to the National Centre of Meteorology forecasts.This pattern follows an ongoing winter chill that began earlier in the month and has brought a general drop in daytime temperatures, cool nights, and occasional early-morning fog or mist in inland areas.

UAE: Winter cool continues

The skies over much of the country on January 18 are expected to be generally partly cloudy, with low cloud formations over some coastal, northern, and eastern regions.Cloud cover tendencies have been part of this week’s weather, with earlier forecasts predicting light rainfall and changing haze at times.While rain is not widely expected on Sunday itself, the pattern of cloud development increases the chance of mist or light fog during the night and early morning, particularly over internal areas, a trend seen frequently this winter season.

NCM weather alerts

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued weather alerts for parts of the UAE due to winter conditions affecting visibility, wind, and sea state. Fog and low-visibility alerts are in place for internal and coastal areas, particularly during the late night and early morning hours, with motorists advised to drive cautiously.

Strong wind and rough sea warnings apply to the Arabian Gulf and Sea of Oman, where conditions may turn rough to very rough, affecting marine activities and small vessels.In addition, dust and reduced visibility advisories may affect open inland areas, especially when winds strengthen.Residents are advised to follow official NCM updates and take precautions while travelling or heading out to sea.Looking toward the middle of the week, the UAE’s weather story takes another turn. By Wednesday, a more unsettled pattern is predicted to take hold, bringing a further drop in temperatures and a renewed chance of light rainfall, especially in northern and coastal areas. This is driven by an interaction between surface low pressure and upper-air troughs. While the rain may be scattered, the combination of stronger northwesterly winds and increased cloud cover ensures that the "winter feel" isn't going anywhere just yet.