Abu Dhabi braces for week-long rain, strong winds and hail

The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) predicts rain of varying intensities across the Emirate of Abu Dhabi beginning tomorrow, Saturday, and lasting for seven days. Some areas may also experience hail and fluctuating wind speeds during this period.

Residents are advised by the NCM to stay vigilant and adhere to official guidelines to safeguard lives and property.

The NCM outlined the anticipated weather conditions in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi from Saturday, March 21, to Friday, March 27, 2026. During this period, the regions of Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra are expected to witness intermittent rainfall of varying intensities, potentially accompanied by hail.

Additionally, it mentioned that winds will be active, fluctuating between brisk and strong, causing dust and sand to be stirred up, which will likely impair horizontal visibility.

Rain showers were observed in various parts of Abu Dhabi and Dubai early Friday morning, with forecasts predicting intermittent rainfall to persist into Saturday and potentially last up to seven days in some areas. This weather condition is attributed to the influence of a surface low-pressure system, combined with a mild extension of low pressure in the upper atmospheric layers.

Abu Dhabi Police manage traffic during rain.

The NCM has also forecast that Saturday's weather will range from partly cloudy to cloudy, with some cumulus clouds and a possibility of rain in scattered areas. Winds are expected to be southeasterly to northeasterly, generally light to moderate in strength, but may occasionally become active, stirring up dust and sand that could reduce horizontal visibility. Wind speeds are predicted to vary between 15 and 25 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 40 km/h at times. Sea conditions will range from slight to moderate but may turn rough periodically during cloudy intervals over the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. 

Sunday's weather is expected to range from partly cloudy to mostly cloudy, featuring cumulus clouds and scattered chances of rain in select areas. Winds will southeasterly to northeasterly, varying from light to moderate, occasionally becoming active to strong stirring-up dust that could impair horizontal visibility. Wind speeds are anticipated to range between 15 and 25 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 45 km/h. The sea conditions will be moderately rough, occasionally turning turbulent with cloud activity in both the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman.

The Monday's weather is expected to be partly cloudy to cloudy, accompanied by cumulus clouds and a possibility of scattered rain. Winds are expected to be southeasterly to northeasterly, ranging from light to moderate but occasionally becoming strong and gusty. These winds may stir up dust, leading to reduced horizontal visibility. Wind speeds are anticipated to range between 15 and 25 km/h, with occasional gusts reaching up to 45 km/h. Sea conditions will vary from slight to moderate, occasionally becoming rough in the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, particularly with cloud activity.

Tuesday's weather forecast indicates partly cloudy to cloudy conditions with the presence of cumulus clouds and a chance of rain in certain areas. Winds will vary from southeasterly to northeasterly, generally light to moderate, but may occasionally strengthen to active or strong, stirring-up dust that could impair horizontal visibility. Wind speeds are expected to range between 15 and 25 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 45 km/h. Sea conditions will range from slight to moderate, occasionally becoming rough in the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman due to cloud activity.

The NCM urged the public to follow safety guidelines, stressing the importance of cautious driving, respecting the revised speed limits, avoiding valleys and torrents, and ensuring access to first aid supplies and backup lighting.