Dubai suspends intercity bus services to and from Ajman, Sharjah until further notice

Bus services suspended

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority has informed of suspension of intercity bus services to and from the emirates of Ajman and Sharjah until further notice, due to the current weather conditions.

Schools asked to take precautions

Due to unstable weather conditions expected over the coming days, and in line with guidance from UAE authorities, Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority urged all private educational institutions in Dubai to take extra precautions and put the safety of their staff first.

"Where possible, schools are encouraged to consider flexible or alternative work arrangements as part of their preventive measures. We are also aware that some schools and early childhood centers may be holding classes and extracurricular activities during the holidays. However, we strongly advise against organizing any outdoor or off-campus activities for students during this period to ensure their safety," they said.

Dubai Police advisory

"Given the current weather conditions across the country, characterized by rains, strong winds, thunder, lightning, and sometimes hail, reducing visibility, road users are advised to abide by following the instructions of competent authorities. Let's strive together for a safer and more secure community," Dubai Police said in an advisory on Friday morning.

Waterlogged streets in Dubai

Overnight rain led to waterlogged streets in several parts of the emirate. Around 5:30am, Dubai's RTA noted that its Joint Flood Management Room was taking action to address rainwater pooling across the emirate.

More rain expected

The National Center of Meteorology has issued fresh alerts, warning residents of more rain across the country from 4:30am to 10:30am on Friday. Yellow alert was issued for almost all of UAE, with orange alerts for major parts of several emirates. Take a look:

Flight cancellations for Dec 19

The following Emirates flights have been cancelled today, December 19:

EK977/978 Dubai/Tehran/Dubai

EK823/824 Dubai/Dammam/Dubai

EK945/946 Dubai/Basra/Dubai

EK866/867 Dubai/Muscat/Dubai

EK853/854 Dubai/Kuwait/Dubai

EK835/836 Dubai/Bahrain/Dubai

EK837/838 Dubai/Bahrain/Dubai

EK705/796 Dubai/Seychelles/Dubai

EK656/657 Dubai/Male/Dubai

EK650/651 Dubai/Colombo/Dubai

EK636/637 Dubai/Peshawar/Dubai

EK043/44 Dubai/Frankfurt/Dubai

EK322/323 Dubai/Incheon/Dubai

Emirates urged its customers to check their flight status by visiting the airline website for the latest information regarding their flights.

Unstable weather continues

The country witnessed heavy rainfall, hail and thunderstorms on Thursday, December 18, which continued on Friday, December 19 as authorities issued warnings asking residents to stay alert and exercise caution.

The met department issued orange and yellow alerts, cautioning residents to not go outdoors unless absolutely necessary.

Visuals of waterlogged streets, storm and lightning from several emirates surfaced through the night. Residents were forced to adapt as regular travel was affected.

Emergency response vehicles were deployed across affected areas, and recovery trucks stood ready to assist stranded motorists.