Weather Alert: Dust Storms and Strong Winds Impact UAE Residents
The National Center of Meteorology issues alerts as dust storms and rough seas affect visibility and marine conditions across the country.
Dust storms and strong winds have been recorded across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on May 6, 2025, prompting the National Center of Meteorology (NCM) to issue orange and yellow weather alerts.
This has particularly impacted motorists in major cities, including Abu Dhabi and Dubai, where visibility has been significantly reduced.
Reports indicate a severe dust storm in the Al Hamra region of Al Dhafra and at Al Maktoum International Airport, with dusty conditions expected to persist until Thursday, May 8. Authorities have urged drivers to exercise caution and have advised against using mobile phones while driving.
The inclement weather has been attributed to a deep low-pressure system and a weak upper-level low-pressure system, which are generating strong winds accompanied by rough seas along the UAE's coastline.
Temperatures in the region are anticipated to drop, with highs ranging from 39°C to 44°C in coastal areas, while inland regions may experience temperatures between 41°C and 46°C. Mountainous areas are expected to see cooler temperatures, ranging from 27°C to 32°C.
The weather forecast for May 7 indicates continued dusty and partly cloudy conditions with a notable decrease in temperatures.
Winds will vary from moderate to fresh northwesterlies, with gusts potentially reaching speeds of 50 km/h, contributing to poor visibility due to blowing dust.
The Arabian Gulf is forecast to be rough to very rough, and wave heights may reach 7 feet offshore from May 6 at 12:30 PM until May 7 at 12:30 AM.
In addition to current dust storms, rainfall is expected on May 11 across several UAE regions.
Clouds developed in the afternoon, leading to rainfall in Sharjah and Fujairah, with moderate to heavy precipitation, thunderstorms, lightning, and the possibility of small-sized hail.
Significant downpours were recorded in areas such as Al Madam and Shwaib in Al Ain.
Measurements taken in Mezaira within the Al Dhafra region recorded the lowest temperature in the country at 15.5°C early on May 11, reflecting the diverse weather patterns affecting the region.
Moving forward, the weather forecast suggests partly cloudy skies with the potential for convective cloud formation in eastern areas, possibly leading to further rainfall by the afternoon of May 12. The NCM is actively monitoring these meteorological conditions and will provide updates as necessary.