UAE heatwave alert: Temperatures to soar to 46°C in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

The United Arab Emirates is bracing for a blistering weekend as temperatures are forecast to soar to extreme levels, reaching up to 46°C in key cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi . The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) warns residents and visitors to take strong precautions against the intense heat, especially during peak daytime hours. Along with the soaring temperatures, there are elevated humidity levels and blowing dust expected, further compounding the discomfort and health risks.

TL;DR:

• Temperatures in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are expected to hit 46°C by Friday, with daytime highs commonly above 40°C across the country.
  
  
  
• Humidity and dust: Coastal humidity will intensify the heat feel, while moderate to strong winds of up to 40 km/h will stir dust, reducing visibility and air quality.
  
  
• Safety precautions: Authorities urge everyone to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during mid-day, protect vulnerable groups, and exercise caution while driving due to poor visibility.
  

Temperature outlook and weather conditions
Dubai is currently experiencing very warm conditions, with highs around 41°C and night lows remaining above 34°C, making evenings uncomfortably warm. Abu Dhabi faces similar extremes, with temperatures around 42°C and nighttime lows staying near 33°C. The forecast indicates a peak temperature of 46°C by Friday for both cities, marking one of the hottest spells of the summer.
Interior parts of the UAE are seeing even higher temperatures, with some areas reaching between 42°C and 47°C. Mountainous regions remain cooler but still hot, with highs in the low to mid-30s Celsius. Coastal cities will contend with elevated humidity, pushing the heat index higher and increasing the risk of heat stress. Moderate southwesterly to northeasterly winds will occasionally increase to fresh levels at around 35 km/h, causing blowing dust and haze that can significantly reduce visibility on roads and in public outdoor spaces.

Dust storms are forecast to accompany this heatwave, especially in eastern and northern parts of the country. The blowing dust will lead to poor air quality and possible respiratory irritation, prompting health alerts for sensitive groups. Drivers are advised to exercise caution as sudden dust clouds can create hazardous driving conditions.

Health and safety recommendations
To stay safe during this period of extreme heat, authorities are emphasizing several protective measures:

• Limit outdoor exposure, especially between 11am and 4pm, when the sun's rays are strongest.
• Stay hydrated with frequent water intake to prevent dehydration and heat-related illnesses.
• Wear light, breathable clothing and use sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to guard against sunburn and heat exhaustion.
• Keep vulnerable groups indoors, including children, the elderly, and pets, who are most susceptible to heat stress.
• Be cautious while driving, due to dusty conditions and reduced visibility on roads.
• Employ cooling measures indoors such as air conditioning or fans to maintain comfort.
  

Employers and outdoor workers are encouraged to adjust working hours to cooler parts of the day and provide adequate rest and hydration breaks.

Prolonged heatwave and climate trends
This extreme heat period is part of a longer 14-day stretch of intense summer weather affecting the UAE, accompanied by frequent dust storms and elevated humidity, especially along coastal areas. The heatwave follows the UAE experiencing its hottest spring on record this year, with temperatures earlier in August reaching highs above 50°C in some interior locations like Sweihan.
Experts attribute this pattern to broader climate change effects contributing to escalating heat intensity and duration in the Gulf region. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow official guidelines to navigate this challenging weather safely.

FAQ

• 1. How hot will it get in Dubai and Abu Dhabi this weekend?
  Temperatures are expected to reach up to 46°C in both cities.
  
• 2. Will there be other weather issues besides heat?
  Yes, high humidity and blowing dust are forecast, which may reduce visibility and affect air quality.
  
• 3. What time of day should outdoor activity be avoided?
  The hottest period is between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., when heat stress risk is highest.
  
• 4. What precautions should residents take?
  Stay indoors during peak heat, drink plenty of water, wear light clothing, and keep vulnerable groups safe from exposure.