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Winter in the UAE began December 22, bringing cold nights, mild days, rain, and fog/Representative Image
Winter officially began in the UAE on December 22. According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) , this winter will bring a mix of cold nights, mild days, occasional rainfall, and diverse conditions across the country.
Winter in the UAE is dominated by the Siberian high-pressure system, which pushes cold air toward the Arabian Gulf through northwesterly or sometimes northeasterly winds. This causes noticeable drop in temperature, especially at night and early morning, with some inland and mountainous areas falling below 0°C.The country also experiences low-pressure systems from the Red Sea, the Mediterranean, and occasionally the east, which increase cloud cover and rainfall.
Fog can form during calm, humid early mornings.
Regional differences across UAE
The UAE’s landscape creates varied winter conditions:
- Deserts: Cool nights and early mornings, mild days.
- Mountains: Jebel Jais and other highlands remain cool most of the time; the coldest temperature recorded this season was 3.5°C at Jebel Jais on December 20.
- Coastal areas: Moderate temperatures, calm seas, and wave heights of 1–2 feet, ideal for marine activities.
Occasional heavy rain may cause runoff in valleys and wadis, and authorities advise caution.
Recent events and winter outlook
Before the official start of winter, strong winds on December 18–19 brought torrential rain, flooding, and hail in some areas. Dubai Police received over 39,000 calls during the storms, while emergency alerts and SMS messages advised residents and tourists to stay vigilant.
Winter averages in the UAE are: 24–27°C maximum temperature, 14–16°C minimum, 55–64% humidity, and 11–13 km/h winds. Light to moderate winds, comfortable humidity, and occasional fog make this season ideal for outdoor sports, camping, and exploring the country’s diverse landscapes.
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