UAE weather alert: Rain, thunderstorms, and blowing dust forecast for the weekend

TL;DR

• Rain, thunder, and possible hail expected across eastern, southern, and inland areas from Friday, July 25 to Monday, July 28.
• Strong winds and low visibility due to blowing dust may affect outdoor plans.
• Hot and humid conditions continue, with temperatures pushing 48°C in some parts.

Residents across the UAE may want to rethink weekend plans, as the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued a weather alert for possible thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds between Friday, July 25 and Monday, July 28, 2025.

The forecast points to an unstable weather system developing over the eastern, southern, and some interior areas. The likely culprits? A combination of low-pressure zones, both at the surface and higher up, along with humid air flowing in from the Arabian Sea and Sea of Oman. Add to that the northward shift of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), and conditions are ripe for cloud build-up, rain, and even hail in some places.

Despite the rain, don’t expect cooler days. Daytime highs are still expected to hit the high 40s in inland regions. Humidity, especially in coastal areas, will remain high in the evenings.

What’s Driving the Weather?

• Low-Pressure Systems: A mix of surface and upper-air low-pressure systems is moving over the region. These pressure drops make the atmosphere unstable, encouraging cloud formation and rainfall.
• Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ): This equatorial zone brings hot and humid air, rising temperatures, and stormy conditions. Its northward movement over the Arabian Peninsula is helping trigger storm clouds.
• Moist Winds from the Sea: Wet southeasterly winds from the Sea of Oman are clashing with northeasterly winds over the land. This mix fuels convective clouds, the kind that often lead to rain, thunder, and even hail.

What to Expect (July 25–28)

Rain: Mostly in the east and south, especially in the afternoons. Intensity may vary from light to heavy.

Thunder & Hail: Localised thunderstorms could bring lightning and even hail in some areas.

Wind: Gusts could stir up sand and dust, reducing visibility.

Temperature: Inland: 44°C to 48°C, Coastal: 40°C to 43°C

Humidity: High in coastal areas, especially during late evenings and early mornings.

Sea Conditions: Slightly rough in both the Arabian Gulf and Sea of Oman.

NCM’s Advice to the Public

The NCM urges people to follow official updates and stay clear of valleys and low-lying areas during rain, where water can collect quickly. Outdoor activities, especially hiking or camping in mountainous regions, should be avoided during storm alerts.