Kamal Ghorui
After weeks of clear, dry skies, the UAE is bracing for a change in pace as a weak low-pressure system moves in from the east. According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), residents can expect a shift toward more unsettled conditions starting Friday, January 23, 2026. While the weather today remains fair to partly cloudy, a layer of cloud cover is gradually building up, signaling the arrival of a more humid and “unpredictable” stretch of the winter season.This atmospheric disturbance, influenced by a similar weak system in the upper atmosphere, means the desert’s typical golden sunshine will be shared with patches of grey. While no severe storms are on the horizon, the pattern brings a welcome variety to the season, making it the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors before the humidity levels spike overnight.
UAE weather today
If you’ve been waiting for a reason to use your umbrella, the weeknd might provide a light opportunity. The NCM has indicated that cloud cover will increase further by Saturday night and Sunday, particularly over coastal and northern areas. There is a tangible chance of light rainfall during this period, especially over the islands and coastal regions.Temperatures are varying significantly depending on where you are in the country. Coastal areas like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are seeing pleasant highs of 19°C to 24°C, while internal regions might hit 25°C. However, the real “winter” is happening in the mountains, where daytime temperatures struggle to pass 16°C and nighttime lows have been recorded as low as 5°C to 9°C. Earlier this week, Jebel Jais even recorded a seasonal low of 0.2°C, proving that the UAE’s winter “nip” is very real.
Is it really going to rain?
Yes, but rainfall today is more likely to be light rather than heavy. The NCM’s forecast indicates that scattered showers might develop, especially over northern emirates and along the coast.In recent days, light rain has already been observed in parts of the country, and temperatures dipped slightly, a pattern consistent with weak cloud systems passing through.This does not currently suggest widespread storms or heavy downpours, just a gentle wetting rain that may interrupt outdoor plans briefly.
Road safety alerts
One of the most immediate impacts of this weather shift is the rising humidity. Forecasters expect humidity to surge overnight and into Saturday morning, particularly in western areas. This increase often leads to mist or fog formation during the early hours, which can significantly reduce visibility for morning commuters.To ensure a safe weekend, residents are encouraged to:
- Stay Updated: Monitor the NCM’s “Red” and “Yellow” alerts before heading out on long drives.
- Drive Cautiously: Be prepared for sudden fog patches on major highways like E11 and E311.
- Outdoor Prep: If you’re planning a desert camp, ensure your gear is moisture-resistant to handle the damp morning air.
This change in weather serves as a reminder of the unique beauty of a UAE winter. For many, the arrival of clouds and light drizzle is a celebrated event, signaling the peak of “Karak tea season” and outdoor gatherings. While the seas remain generally calm to moderate in the Arabian Gulf, the refreshing winds, reaching up to 35 km/h, add a crisp feel to the air. Whether the rain hits your neighborhood or just teases from the clouds, it’s a time to wrap up warm and enjoy the rarest of desert sights: a rainy day in the Emirates.
