UAE Winter: Embracing a Desert Chill

Dropping Temperatures in UAE: Winter Has Arrived

The weather in the United Arab Emirates has reached a new turning point: on the dawn of November 9, a temperature of 9.8°C was recorded in the Al Ain area, specifically in the Raknah district—this was the lowest temperature recorded so far this winter in the country. This data was reported by the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), which regularly monitors temperature fluctuations across the UAE.

Signs of Winter Transition

Cooler morning temperatures clearly indicate that the UAE is slowly but surely entering winter. This time of year—roughly from November to March—has always brought milder, more pleasant weather compared to the scorching heat of the summer months. Daytime maximums typically range from 15°C to 25°C, while single-digit values can occur in the early hours, particularly in the inner, desert regions.

This period not only offers respite for locals but is also key from a tourism perspective. The moderate climate attracts visitors from all over the world, who can enjoy outdoor activities, events, beaches, and desert tours in the UAE during this time.

Looking Back at Previous Cold Records

Although the morning temperature of 9.8°C might seem cool to many, even lower temperatures have been recorded in previous years. The lowest temperature ever recorded in the emirates was -5.7°C, registered on February 3, 2017, at the iconic peak of Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah. This place, standing at 1,934 meters high, often records significantly lower temperatures than the rest of the country.

In early 2025, on January 4, the year’s lowest temperature so far was measured at the same mountain: 1.9°C at 5 a.m. This occurred just one day after the temperature plummeted to 2.2°C at the same location. Jebel Jais has always held a special place in the hearts of weather enthusiasts and hikers—not only because of its cooler climate but also because, as the highest point in the country, it offers a special vista to visitors.

Another Face of the Desert

Most people associate the UAE with heat—rightly so, as in summer, the temperature regularly exceeds 45°C, and humidity often complicates daily life. However, few realize that the desert environment can cool to surprisingly low temperatures in winter, especially before sunrise.

Inland open desert areas—such as around Al Ain or Sweihan—can experience a daily temperature variation exceeding 20°C. This means that while it can be a pleasant 24-25°C during the day, temperatures can drop below 9-10°C at dawn.

What to Expect in the Coming Weeks?

According to NCM forecasts, further cooling is expected in the coming weeks, especially during the morning hours. In coastal cities like Dubai or Abu Dhabi, the climate remains typically warmer, but the winter freshness will also be evident. Anyone planning outdoor activities, especially dawn desert excursions or mountain hikes, should prepare with warm clothing.

Local residents and expatriates living here longer have already gotten used to UAE winters not coming with snow and frost but rather with sweaters, warm tea, and pleasantly cool evenings. However, newcomers might be surprised to find that a jacket might be necessary in a desert country in the mornings.

Tourism Boom

Winter not only brings a more pleasant sentiment to everyday life but also has a positive impact on the country's economy. From November onward, the number of tourists noticeably increases, thanks in part to the weather being conducive to leisure activities. International events like the Dubai Shopping Festival, sports contests, concerts, and art exhibitions are all held during this period, as the weather is most suitable for welcoming large crowds.

During the winter season, desert glamping experiences, morning hot air balloon flights, and mountain hikes around Jebel Jais are particularly popular. However, travelers should be aware that the period before sunrise can be surprisingly brisk—especially when combined with the wind.

Closing Thoughts

The 9.8°C temperature recorded in Al Ain on November 9 showcases that the weather in the United Arab Emirates is much more diverse than one might initially think. While summer indeed brings extreme heat, winter, on the other hand, is refreshingly cool, offering opportunities for nature exploration, outdoor experiences, and relaxation.

As we move through the days of November, it’s worth taking advantage of the milder mornings and pleasant afternoons. Whether it’s a seaside walk, a desert excursion, or a mountain hike, winter in the UAE is a time for exploration—when nature and weather show a different, less-known face.

(The article's source is a statement from the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM).)