Dubai and Abu Dhabi are expected to experience unstable weather conditions from Monday, March 23, to Friday, March 27, with intermittent rainfall, strong winds, and reduced visibility, according to advisories and official guidance from UAE authorities.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) forecast that weather conditions will be characterised by convective cloud development, bringing intermittent showers of varying intensity across the region. Morning rain episodes are expected to temporarily ease, but renewed shower activity is forecast by midday, with systems moving in from the Arabian Gulf affecting areas from Abu Dhabi through to northern Dubai.
Some of these showers may become heavy and thundery at times before gradually shifting westward into the evening. Wind conditions are expected to be variable, with speeds reaching up to 50 km/h in some areas. These winds may also generate dust haze, further reducing horizontal visibility across road networks and open areas. Sea conditions across the Arabian Gulf and Sea of Oman are expected to remain light to moderate, though authorities have advised caution.
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In response, multiple government bodies have issued public safety advisories. The Dubai Media Office has urged residents to avoid valleys, flood-prone areas, and locations where water may accumulate, and to avoid venturing into mountainous regions or going to sea during unstable weather. Residents are urged to avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. Motorists are told to exercise caution, reduce speeds, and follow official updates.
Road safety guidance from the Abu Dhabi Police urged motorists to avoid distractions while driving, maintain safe distances, and refrain from sudden braking or sharp manoeuvres during rainfall. Drivers were also urged to pull over safely if visibility becomes significantly reduced.
Entering valleys during heavy water flow is considered a serious traffic offence and carries a fine of Dh2,000, vehicle impoundment for 60 days, and 23 traffic black points. Officials warned that such violations will be enforced to prevent life-threatening incidents during flooding and flash flood conditions.
The police further stressed the importance of checking weather conditions before travel, adhering to posted speed limits, especially when variable speed systems are activated, and avoiding risky behaviour such as drifting or driving through waterlogged areas.
Residents are urged to contact following emergency services when needed:
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Dubai Police: 999
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Abu Dhabi Police: 999
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Ambulance (UAE-wide in many emirates): 998
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Civil Defence: 997
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Dubai Electricity and Water Authority: 991
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Roads and Transport Authority (Dubai): 800 9090
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Dubai Municipality: 800 900
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Dubai Health: 800 60
The Dubai Civil Defence and other emergency and utility services remain on alert, advising residents to stay informed through official channels and avoid unnecessary risk during the unstable weather period.
NCEMA said on Thursday that it is taking proactive measures to brace for the unstable weather and to assess the situation. The authority said that it will work with the Ministry of Interior, NCM and other key partners during this time to monitor developments and to keep business community plans in place.
The MET department has urged the public to monitor official forecasts, avoid spreading rumours, and take precautions during convective cloud activity, particularly during lightning, thunder, and downdraft winds, which may cause sudden visibility drops and movement of loose objects.
Authorities across the UAE have reiterated that public safety remains the top priority and that adherence to official instructions will be essential to minimise risks during the expected period of unstable weather.
Source: Khaleej Times