UAE winter weather explained: temperatures, rain, fog and winds

The UAE winter has officially, bringing cooler temperatures, changing wind patterns and increased chances of fog and rainfall, according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM).

The astronomical start of winter in the Northern Hemisphere fell on December 22, marking the transition to the country’s cooler season.

The NCM said winter weather in the UAE is shaped by a combination of large-scale pressure systems and the country’s diverse geography, resulting in noticeable variations between desert, coastal and mountainous areas.

Siberian high brings colder air

At the surface level, the Siberian high-pressure system dominates winter weather, extending towards the Arabian Gulf region. This system is typically accompanied by northwesterly winds, which can sometimes be active, or northeasterly winds, leading to the inflow of cold air masses.

As a result, temperatures drop across the country, particularly at night and during the early morning hours. In some inland and mountainous locations, temperatures can fall below 0°C.

During winter, the UAE is also affected by several low-pressure systems originating from the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, as well as extensions of low-pressure systems from the east.

These weather systems increase cloud cover and bring rainfall to parts of the country.

Fog may form under stable atmospheric conditions, especially when humidity is high and winds are light, with early morning hours most prone to reduced visibility.

Geography drives varied winter conditions

The UAE’s varied topography — spanning the Arabian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea and the Empty Quarter desert — plays a key role in shaping local winter conditions.

In inland desert areas, weather is generally cool to cold at night and early morning, while daytime conditions remain mild.

Mountainous and highland areas experience cooler weather for much of the day and colder conditions at night due to elevation, with Jebel Jais reaching approximately 1,800 metres above sea level.

Coastal areas typically experience moderate winter conditions, with most days remaining mild.

Along the coast, wave heights during winter usually range between one and two feet, creating favourable conditions for marine activities and water sports. Occasional rainfall can improve outdoor conditions, although heavy rain in limited areas may cause runoff in mountainous valleys.

Authorities advise caution during such events and recommend avoiding wadis when rainfall is forecast.

UAE winds

Winds during winter are generally light to moderate, supporting camping and outdoor recreation, with stronger winds confined to a limited number of days. Relative humidity levels are usually comfortable, although calm conditions combined with higher humidity can contribute to fog formation in the early morning.

The NCM said the UAE’s winter climate and weather diversity help support a wide range of sports, leisure and recreational activities across the country.

• Average maximum temperature: 24–27°C
• Average minimum temperature: 14–16°C
• Average relative humidity: 55–64 per cent
• Average wind speed: 11–13kmph