Watch: Wadis overflow, hail blankets desert as heavy rains, thunderstorms hit UAE

What's the weather like today?

The UAE is experiencing unstable weather until Friday, bringing with it heavy rains and continuously changing conditions. Yesterday, several parts of the country saw heavy rains, with roads waterlogged in some areas.

Residents who stepped out after the showers on March 23 likely noticed a slight nip in the air — and January-esque weather conditions — a delightful change from the blazing heat.

KT's Haneen Dajani earlier reported that rainfall will continue into Wednesday, with intermittent showers expected from daytime through evening across the country. Conditions are likely to gradually improve overnight, with the chance of rain decreasing.

Waterlogged roads, kids playing in the rain — a glimpse into the weather this week

Springtime instability

Khaleej Times' Azza Al Ali, reported that Ibrahim Al Jarwan, member of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences, took to X to explain the current weather conditions.

The current period, he said, marks the season known as ‘Sarayat’ or ‘Marawih’, a time of springtime atmospheric instability during the transitional phase from mid-March to early May.

He explained that this season is characterised by the formation of convective clouds, often accompanied by thunderstorms, rainfall, lightning, thunder, and occasional hail.

Al Jarwan added that a notable spring weather condition is expected between March 21 and March 27.

Expected weather today

Here's a look at what the expected rainfall could perhaps look like and how it would move in the region.

Skies get gloomier

As skies in Dubai get darker and the sun takes refuge behind clouds, let's see what the current conditions look like across the country.

As can be seen in the above image, the rains can be seen moving inward from coastal areas and from near Al Dhafra.

Authorities issue repeated reminders

The Ministry of Interior has reminded residents of public safety guidelines, which are as follows:

• Do not go out unless necessary

• Avoid moving around during strong winds

• Always prioritise safety

Driving safely

• Reduce speed

• Keep a safe distance

• Drive only when necessary

• Stay calm and cautious

Official news

• Get news from official sources

• Do not spread rumours

• Avoid exaggeration and inaccurate information

Valleys and sea

• Avoid valleys and flood channels

• Swimming in the sea is prohibited

• Stay away from pools of water

Home safety

• Secure loose objects

• Ensure balconies and surfaces are safe

• Remove hazardous items from outdoor areas

Public parking continues to be free in Sharjah

Sharjah yesterday said that it is extending the public parking fee exemption until further notice, amid unstable weather conditions. The exemption was first implemented on March 23.

The Sharjah City Municipality added that the exemption applies to all public parking areas across the emirate — including zones that are normally chargeable, which are indicated by blue signs.

Smart parking yards, however, are excluded from this exemption.

Thunderstorms expected in Oman

Oman's Met Department said that the nation is expecting inclement weather conditions and thunderstorms today.

Multiple waves of instability expected

The current weather is part of a broader pattern of atmospheric instability affecting the country, KT's Haneen Dajani reported.

NCM weather expert Dr Ahmad Habib explained that the UAE will experience successive waves of cloud activity over the coming days:

• March 24 (Tuesday): A second wave expected, following a similar pattern starting from western regions and moving inland and north

• March 25 (Wednesday): Rain likely to concentrate more over northern and eastern areas, including Al Ain and coastal regions

• Late March 26 to March 27: A final wave expected overnight, gradually clearing by March 27

He added: “Rain may stop for an hour or two in some areas, then resume as new cloud bands move in.”

Dubai Parks and Resorts announces temporary closure

As authorities closed parks across the UAE due to the weather, popular attraction Dubai Parks and Resorts have also announced a temporary closure on Wednesday, March 25, KT's Nasreen Abdulla reports.

They, however, have not specified a reason for the closure.

Visitors have been asked to contact the call center for more information on tickets, bookings and refunds.

UAE authorities issue a warning, urge residents to follow safety instructions 

UAE's Ministry of Interior has issued a warning, informing residents of expected weather conditions. It said that "some areas may experience rainfall of varying intensity, hail, and active winds accompanied by lightning and thunder, along with reduced horizontal visibility".

It urged residents to follow the instructions below:

- Exercise caution while driving and moving around.

- Reduce speed on the roads and follow traffic rules and instructions.

- Avoid areas prone to valley flows, flash floods, and water accumulations.

- Do not visit the sea or beaches during unstable weather conditions.

- The concerned authorities emphasize that the safety of everyone is a top priority, urging the public to follow updates and warnings issued by official and authorized sources.

Speed reduction begins in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi authorities have begun reducing speeds on some roads as inclement weather is expected. Abu Dhabi Police has said that the speed reduction system has been activated to 100kmph on Sheikh Khalifa International Road (Al Sila – Mahmiat Al Soquo).

Watch: Hail in Al Dhafra

Icy stones could be seen lining the valleys of the massive sand dunes of Al Dhafra's desert amid the unsettled weather conditions. Take a look at this unique, breathtaking scene:

Yellow alert issued in UAE 

The National Centre of Meteorology has issued a yellow alert for rain in parts of UAE.

The alert has been issued until 11pm. The authority said in its alert that there is a "chance of convective cloud formation associated with rainfall", along with "fresh to strong winds at times causing blowing dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility, with a speed reaching 55kmph over some areas from 6am until 11pm".

Expecting terrible traffic? There may be some respite

UAE residents are now well versed with the implications of inclement weather conditions — including the snarl of traffic.

This time around, however, there may be some respite for residents as schools are already remote and many are working from home.

In a heartwarming incident yesterday, an expat family stuck in heavy rain-related traffic for three hours — was travelling from Dubai to Sharjah for their young boy's chemotherapy session.

As the delay stretched, her son's condition began to worsen. With concern growing, the family decided to seek help. “My husband called on a police patrol, and the response was humane beyond description.”

Emergency services quickly stepped in, dispatching an ambulance to transport the child while police patrols escorted the family’s vehicle, clearing the way through traffic and ensuring they reached the hospital without further delay.

Dubai Police issues alert ahead of rain

Dubai Police has issued an alert ahead of rainy weather, saying that it requires "extra caution". "Stay alert, anticipate others’ mistakes, and follow these safety tips to prevent accidents," the authority said. It also detailed the following:

• Maintain a safe distance between vehicles.

• Ensure the safety and proper condition of tires, windshield wipers, and vehicle lighting.

• Reduce speed and drive calmly on wet roads.

• Avoid sudden braking and exercise extra caution when approaching curves.

• Stay away from valleys, flood channels, and areas with water accumulation.

• Avoid going to the sea and beaches.

Look: How Dubai responds to weather conditions

Saw the massive rainfall yesterday, but didn't feel its impact? That's thanks to the efforts of authorities in Dubai.

Dubai Municipality yesterday shared how the authority places vaccuum tankers and personnel on ground to deal with the after effects of the rains.

Temperatures dip to 9.3ºC in UAE today

A chilly 9.3ºC was recorded at 2.15am today on Jais Mountain.

Cells of thunder, rain active over parts of Oman

Active thunderstorm cells and rainfall of varying intensity over the governorates of North Al Batinah, Al Dhahirah, Al Dakhiliyah, and North Al Sharqiyah, expected to extend in the coming period to include Musandam, South Al Batinah, and South Al Sharqiyah.

Abu Dhabi Civil Defence reminds residents to stay safe

Authorities in the Abu Dhabi earlier called on residents to remain vigilant amid the unstable weather conditions.

They specifically warned against using mobile or wired phones in open areas during thunderstorms, and urged people to stay clear of flood waters, streams, and any power lines exposed to rainwater.

Residents were also advised not to lift manhole covers, and to avoid standing near trees, lamp posts, glass facades, or metal doors. They also added that all construction sites should be kept well clear during this period.

Watch: Rains lash parts of Oman

Take a look at this video shared by Weather Omanya of continued rainfall over the mountains of Al Rustaq Governorate

What the weather radar looks like right now

The weather radar that indicates varying levels of rainfall shows as of now a storm system developing over the sea southwest of the UAE.

Intense rainfall is concentrated in the red and yellow zones. As of now, it appears to be tracking toward the UAE coastline, with Dubai and the northern emirates likely in its path.

Smaller storm cells are also forming inland across eastern UAE and Oman, pointing to scattered thunderstorm activity across the region.

On the ground, this means heavy rain, thunder, and potentially strong winds for affected areas. The most intense zones could bring localised flooding and sharply reduced visibility.

RTA issues advisory ahead of heavy rainfall

Heavy rainfall is expected across the city in the coming hours, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority has said.

It issued an advisory, asking everyone to stay prepared, plan trips in advance, and drive carefully as visibility drops significantly during rain, even in daylight.

Watch: Rain, hail hits Abu Dhabi

Icy hail hit Abu Dhabi today as the country experienced inclement weather conditions. Authorities in Abu Dhabi have repeatedly urged residents to prioritise their safety in such times.

Abu Dhabi asks motorists to drive safely amid reduced visibility

Abu Dhabi Police urges drivers to exercise utmost caution amid fluctuating weather conditions.

The authority asked motorists to adhere to safe driving guidelines during rainfall and weather fluctuations, to be mindful of water accumulations on roads and to stay away from wadis.

Brigadier Mahmoud Yousef Al Blooshi, Director of the Traffic and Security Patrols Directorate, confirmed that driving in rainy weather requires twice the attention from drivers, due to reduced visibility and the increased likelihood of vehicle skidding.

He emphasised the importance of reducing speeds and maintaining sufficient safety distance between vehicles.

He explained that among the most prominent erroneous practices that may lead to accidents in such conditions are speeding, failure to adhere to the lane, distraction from the road, in addition to sudden stops or lane changes without ensuring the road is clear.

Abu Dhabi Police called on drivers to ensure the readiness of their vehicles, especially tires, wipers, and lights, and to avoid driving in low-lying areas or places where water accumulates, and to stay away from wadi channels, for the sake of their safety and the safety of others.

The big picture

Residents can expect three days of continuous wet weather, peaking on Friday, before conditions clear over the weekend.

Let's take a look at this forecast in detail:

There is a 90 per cent chance of rain for the rest of the day today and up to half an inch of rain is possible. Currently it is 24°C, climbing to 25°C this afternoon before dropping to 22°C overnight.

Rain is certain tomorrow, though amounts of rain should be lighter, under half an inch. The hourly chart shows rain picking up significantly toward the evening.

Friday will be the heaviest day of rainfall. About 1–2 inches of precipitation is possible. The chart shows rainfall intensifying from midday onward. Highs are set to be around 24°C.

A sharp turnaround is expected on Saturday with only a 10 per cent chance of rain and a much clearer day ahead.

Speed limit reduced

Speed reduction system has been activated to 100kmph on Tahnoun Bin Mohammad Street (Al Hayer – Al Masaken) in Abu Dhabi.

Earlier, the speed on Sheikh Khalifa International Road (Al Sila – Mahmiat Al Soquo) was reduced to 100kmph.

Emergency numbers in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi authorities have reminded residents that they can get in touch with authorities in case of weather-related emergencies. Here are the numbers they can use:

Abu Dhabi Police & Civil Defence: 999

Electricity emergency: 991

Water emergency: 992

Department of Municipalities: 993

TAQA Water Solutions (To report emergencies in the sewage network): 028180000

Another speed limit reduction

Abu Dhabi Police have said that thr speed reduction system has been activated to 100kmph on the Al Ain – Abu Dhabi Road (Bani Yas Bridge – Al Mussafah Bridge).

Orange alert issued for thunder across the country

UAE's National Centre of Meteorology has issued an orange alert for lowing dust or sand, strong winds, rough seas, thunderous rain, and clouds. The alert has been issued till 4pm.

UAE's NCEMA says will issue alerts in case of threat of aggression

UAE's National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management has issued an advisory reminding residents of key measures they can take amid adverse weather conditions.

Residents were reminded that adverse weather conditions may result in lightning, thunder, and other loud disturbances. In case of any threat of aggression, warnings and instructions will be issued immediately via the National Early Warning System, the UAE authorrity said.

It urged members of the community to respond to weather-related disturbances accordingly, and not to attribute such disturbances to incoming threats.

Oman records a low of 3.9ºC in last 24 hours

Watch: Hail hits Fujairah

Watch: Heavy showers pour in Dubai

Heavy rains have started pouring across Dubai, with visibility sharply dropping. Cars have begun slowing down on roads, in attempt to remain cautious amid the heavy downpour.

Downpour in Abu Hail Dubai amid call to prayer

In a warm moment, the call to prayer can be heard in Abu Hail while KT's Laraib Anwer documents the deluge of rain in the area. Watch below:

Dubai Police remind residents of emergency number

Dubai Police in have reminded residents to reach out to authorities in case of help. For emergencies, residents can call 999 and 901 for non-emergencies.

Thunderclaps heard in Sharjah

Residents in Sharjah have reported hearing claps of thunder as heavy rains begin in the emirate.

UAE authority shares tips to safeguard from mosquitoes

As heavy rains lash the nation, Emirates Health Services have issued guidelines to stay protected from mosquitoes.

Here are some tips:

• Use mosquito repellent on exposed skin

• Wear long sleeves and pants to reduce bites

• Avoid peak times (dawn & dusk)

• Keep doors and windows screened

• Remove standing water around your home

• Use mosquito repellents or electronic devices

• Keep outdoor areas clean

• If you experience symptoms like fever, rash, or joint pain after bites, seek medical care promptly

Photos: Dubai residents take cover amid heavy rains

Dubai residents found moments of light relief as umbrellas flipped inside out and improvised rain covers made an appearance, while others simply made a run for shelter.

Sharjah Airport advises passengers to check flight status

Sharjah Airport advises all passengers to stay up to date on the latest flight information due to weather conditions that may affect some flight schedules. We advise passengers to contact their airlines directly to verify the status of their flights before heading to the airport.

Oman denies reports of rare weather phenomenon, historic rain

Oman's Civil Aviation Authority confirms that the information and news circulating about a rare weather phenomenon accompanied by historic rainfall amounts in the Sultanate of Oman and the Arabian Gulf region are not true.

It calls on everyone to avoid sharing such misleading news and stresses the importance of obtaining information from official sources.

UAE issues guidelines for safety amid hailstorm

As hail falls across the UAE, the Ministry of Interior has issued guidelines to ensure the safety of all residents.

Here are the safety measures:

• Stay home and only go out when necessary.

• Cover your cars and outdoor property for protection.

• Immediately go to a safe, enclosed place when you are outside.

• Observe speed limits and maintain a safe distance between vehicles.

• Park your vehicles in a safe place and stay inside.

• Follow warnings and weather forecasts from official authorities.

Oman rescues citizens in Musandam amid unstable weather

Oman's Air Force rescued citizens and residents trapped in Qada, Wilayat of Khasab, Musandam Governorate due to deteriorating weather conditions.

Watch as heavy rains lash Sharjah and Ajman

Final wave expected before temperatures dip

KT's Haneen Dajani has reported that the most significant weather activity is forecast between Thursday night and Friday, when the final wave of the system moves across the UAE.

Rain is expected to begin over western regions on Thursday night before spreading to Al Dhafra and Abu Dhabi by late night and early Friday, then extending across northern emirates, Al Ain and eastern regions during the day.

The NCM warned that this phase could bring:

• Heavy rainfall

• Thunder and lightning

• Possible hail in limited areas

Al Ain Municipality asks residents to rely on overhead tanks

During heavy rain, it is recommended to rely on overhead tanks only to ensure safe water flow within buildings.

Mohre issues workplace safety guidelines 

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation said that the safety of the workforce remains a top priority, and business continuity is a shared responsibility.

It shared the following guidelines for employers:

1. Work Management and Sites

- Assess risks at work sites, particularly open areas

- Reschedule high-risk activities when necessary

- Ensure drainage systems at work sites are fully operational

2. Transport and Workforce Mobility

- Adjust working hours in line with weather conditions

- Ensure transport vehicles are fully prepared and fit for use

- Instruct drivers to adhere to safe driving practices and avoid affected roads

Fujairah driver escapes unharmed after vehicle swept away in floods

A driver in Fujairah escaped unharmed after his vehicle was swept away by flash floods in the Al Halah area of ​​Dibba, Fujairah. The motorist was attempting to cross a wadi.

Fujairah Police General Command urged the public to adhere to instructions and guidelines issued by the relevant authorities and to avoid crossing wadis while they are flowing, as this poses a significant risk to lives and property.

Watch trees bend as strong winds blow in Sharjah and Ajman

UAE radar imagery shows storm now affecting northern emirates

UAE's satellite radar imagery shows that the storm has largely passed over most parts of the country. The storm, however, continues to affect areas of the Northern Emirates.

What to expect tomorrow

Conditions are expected to ease slightly on Thursday, KT's Haneen Dajani reported, with the impact of the low-pressure system relatively weakening.

However, light to moderate rainfall may still occur at intervals, mainly over islands and northern areas.

Weather conditions stable now

Weather conditions have begun stabilising across the country. However, showers are expected to begin again in the evening.

Khaleej Times will continue to bring you the latest on all weather-related updates during the day.

Sharjah road temporary closed

Sharjah Police announced the temporary closure of Al Awza Street (Suhaila) in Al Dhayd City due to heavy rains and flow of Suhaila valleys.

The closure applies to those coming from the direction of Ras Al Khaimah to Al Manama, and from Al Dhayd City to Masafi.

Residents urged to pray at home

UAE residents have been urged to perform their prayers at home as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety amid unstable weather conditions in the country.

The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat has issued this statement on Wednesday as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety.

In a statement, the authority said the guidance follows the Prophet's (PBHU) tradition during adverse weather conditions, emphasising the importance of preventing harm and prioritising safety and to perform prayers at home.

Mosque imams have also been instructed to remind people via loudspeakers immediately after the call to prayer: “Pray in your homes” in all regions impacted by rain, advising worshippers accordingly based on local weather conditions.

Worshippers may also combine Dhuhr and Asr prayers, and Maghrib and Isha prayers if they are performed in mosques, depending on the weather conditions in each area.

Peekaboo! The Sun is here

In some areas of the UAE, nature's drying process is already underway, with the Sun making an appearance after an afternoon of gloomy weather and heavy rains.

While other parts of the UAE continue to have an overcast, areas like JVC and Abu Hail are already seeing blue skies, with residents getting a window to enjoy the outdoors before the heavy rain forecast takes its course at night.

Festival paused in Abu Dhabi 

ADNEC announced it would be pausing all activities related to the Ghaitah Al Ain Festival for today to ensure everyone's safety during the unstable weather conditions.

Fujairah wadi comes to life

As heavy rains hit the UAE Fujairah's wadis in Souq Al Jumea were seen gushing due to the ongoing low pressure weather phenomenon.

Alert for motorists in Fujairah

In a notice, the Fujairah Police urged motorists to exercise extreme caution on the road from Fujairah Port Tunnel towards Al Qarya area, due to heavy truck traffic and rainwater accumulation at the location.

The authority further advised to adhere to speed limits and safety instructions to protect lives and property.

Dibba ramps up response measures

Dibba Municipality has activated emergency plans and raised operational readiness to address the impact of adverse weather and rainfall.

Hassan Salem Al Yamahi, Director of the Municipality, said the municipality had mobilised all technical and human resources, deploying field teams equipped with modern machinery to respond swiftly to areas accumulated with water across the city.

He said operations are based on rapid response and proactive intervention to ensure public safety, maintain traffic flow and limit the impact of the weather conditions.

The municipality is also coordinating closely with relevant authorities to ensure efficient performance and prompt handling of reports and emergencies.

Ras Al Khaimah wadi gushes

Wadi Al Naqab, a popular destination in Ras Al Khaimah known among hikers for its amazing trails and limestone cliffs, turned into an unrecognisable sight as heavy rains caused the valley to gush.

Highest temperatures recorded today

The highest temperature recorded today was 31.6°C in Mukhariz (Al Dhafra Region) at 3.45pm.

Where did it rain the most?

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has recorded significant rainfall across parts of the UAE, with offshore and mountainous areas receiving the highest amounts as unstable weather persists.

Top five recorded rainfall amounts on Tuesday, March 24, 2026:

• Das Island: 47.9mm

• Dayyinah Island: 39.7mm

• Jebel Mebrah: 33.3mm

• Jebel Yanas: 31.6mm

• Abu Dhabi Corniche: 28.3mm

Clean-up teams in action mode

As heavy rains hit parts of Dubai, RTA worked side by side to monitor road conditions, traffic flow, and public transport.

The authority deployed teams and equipment across the city in order to accelerate the clean-up process after heavy rains.

Will it rain tomorrow?

Residents across the UAE can expect more rains on Thursday, March 26, with the unstable weather forecast continuing until Friday.

The weather tomorrow is expected to be partly cloudy to cloudy, accompanied by some convective clouds with rainfall of different intensities over scattered areas.

Temperatures are expected to drop to a low of 13ºC in some areas and reach an overall high of 32ºC in other parts of the country.

Sharjah launches large-scale disinfection drive

As part of its ongoing field efforts to address the impact of the recent low-pressure system and ensure the highest levels of emergency response, Sharjah Municipality has launched a large-scale campaign to disinfect and treat stagnant rainwater.

The initiative aims to limit the spread of public health pests, particularly mosquitoes, by addressing stagnant water and pooled rainwater that form after rainfall.

The municipality has deployed specialised teams of engineers, technicians, and workers, along with a range of equipment and machinery, to monitor and track areas of water accumulation. Immediate measures are being taken to disinfect and sanitise these areas using safe substances that do not pose a risk to human health.

More rain, hail expected in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is expected to witness intervals of varying intensity of rainfall accompanied by hail in limited areas, along with occasional fresh to strong downbursts of wind, as per a forecast by the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM).

These weather conditions will affect the Capital from 10pm on Thursday, March 26, to 4pm of Friday, March 27.

The Met has urged the public to be cautious and follow instructions from official sources. It also urged the to:

• Drive carefully and adhere to modified speed limits

• Avoid valleys

• Carry first aid kits

• Prepare alternative light sources

Night showers in Al Ain

Some areas of the UAE are already seeing heavy showers, with Al Ain being one of them. A video shared by Storm Centre shows heavy rains hitting a road in Al-Qa'n.

ICP closes centre temporarily 

The UAE's Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced it would be closing a centre temporarily due to the prevailing weather conditions and accumulation of rainwater.

The authority's customer happiness centre in Al Ghubaiba in Sharjah is closed since Tuesday, March 24, until further notice.

Customers can access services via the authority's official website and smart application. They can also visit nearby centres operated by the authority to complete their essential services.

Get all your weather updates at Khaleej Times

As the UAE enters a transition period signalling the spring season, the weather has been unstable since the past few days, with March 25 seeing heavy rains, strong winds, and even hail across some areas.

Authorities were quick to get to action, with monitoring teams on roads ensuring smooth traffic and large-scale disinfection drives in Sharjah.

As residents enjoy a cool night after a day of overcast skies and rainfall, stay tuned to Khaleej Times as we bring you the latest updates on the ongoing wet spell.