Fog Alert in UAE Amid Pleasant Weather

Partly Cloudy Skies, Red Fog Alert in UAE

The weather in the United Arab Emirates once again demonstrates that the desert climate is not just about heat and dry air. According to the recent forecast, mostly clear skies with occasional partly cloudy conditions are expected. However, a red alert was issued for dense fog in the early hours. This contrast—pleasant daytime temperatures and morning fog that drastically reduces visibility—is particularly characteristic of the UAE during this time of the year.

According to the meteorological service, overall calm and stable weather is expected on Friday. In addition to partly cloudy skies, longer sunny periods are also anticipated, which favor outdoor activities, sunbathing, or even an evening walk. However, during the initial hours of the day, the weather shows a different side, especially in coastal and inland areas.

Red Alert Issued for Morning Fog

The red alert was in effect between 4:00 AM and 10:00 AM due to foggy conditions. This warning level indicates that visibility may drop significantly, possibly to a few hundred meters in some areas. Such situations can be particularly dangerous on the roads as drivers often underestimate the density of the fog and the increased stopping distances.

In the UAE, fog formation is often a consequence of high humidity and nighttime cooling. When air saturation approaches its maximum and the temperature drops, a dense fog sheet can easily form, especially near the sea and in low-lying areas. According to the current forecast, high humidity is expected again at night and on Saturday morning, promoting fog or mist formation.

Temperature Contrasts Day and Night

During the day, maximum temperatures in the country can reach up to 31 degrees Celsius. In Abu Dhabi, a maximum of around 31 degrees is expected, while in Dubai, the temperature may rise to 30 degrees. These values mean pleasantly warm, but not extremely hot weather, which is especially favorable for both locals and tourists during the winter season.

However, significant cooling is experienced at night and in the early morning hours. In Abu Dhabi, temperatures can drop to as low as 18 degrees, and a minimum around 20 degrees is expected in Dubai. In the mountainous regions, it can be even cooler, with values around 10 degrees. This temperature difference clearly shows how different the UAE's climate is in the winter months compared to the extreme heat of the summer.

Humidity and Nighttime Moisture

The humidity level varies widely. In the Abu Dhabi area, values between 15 and 90 percent are expected, while in Dubai, levels between 20 and 85 percent are anticipated. This significant fluctuation means that the moisture content of the air can change rapidly throughout the day.

At night and in the early morning hours, humidity rises, contributing not only to fog formation but also affecting the perceived temperature. Due to the higher moisture content, the air can feel fuller, heavier, especially in coastal regions. This phenomenon is common in the UAE during this period and often causes mist or dew to form on cars, buildings, and vegetation.

Wind Conditions and Sea Conditions

The wind is blowing from the southeast and northeast, typically with a light to moderate force, at a speed of 10–20 km/h. Occasionally, gusts can reach up to 30 km/h, but this is not considered extreme. The moderate wind helps with air exchange and balances the perceived temperature while not causing significant disruptions.

Sea conditions in the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea are mild; the water surface is calm. This creates favorable conditions for water transport and recreational activities. However, morning fog can also affect coastal navigation, requiring increased caution during these times.

Impact of Weather on Daily Life

This type of weather—pleasant daytime warmth, morning fog—has a significant impact on transportation and daily routines. Those working in sectors with early starts must account for reduced visibility, particularly on highways and open areas. Authorities regularly warn the public to reduce speed, maintain a larger following distance, and use appropriate lighting in fog.

Meanwhile, the partly cloudy, pleasantly warm weather throughout the day creates ideal conditions for outdoor activities. For those living in the UAE, this period is one of the most favorable of the year, as the temperature does not yet reach the extreme summer values but is warm enough for the beaches, parks, and outdoor events to be well attended.

Transitional Yet Characteristic Period

The current weather situation aligns well with the characteristics of the UAE's winter climate. The difference between the daytime warmth and the nighttime cooling, along with the high humidity and resultant fog, are all factors that regularly recur during this period. While the red alert may seem alarming at first, it is more a precautionary measure serving transportation safety.

Overall, the UAE is facing a generally favorable partly cloudy period, interrupted by dense fog in the early hours. Temperatures are pleasantly shaping up, sea conditions are calm, and the wind is moderate. The most important message for the coming days is: daytime will be enjoyable and balanced, but increased caution is necessary in the morning hours due to fog, especially in the Abu Dhabi and Dubai areas.