A chilly morning greeted UAE residents on Thursday as temperatures dipped to the lowest level of the winter season so far. According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), a sharp low of 7.8°C was recorded at 7am in Al Ain’s Raknah, making it the coldest spot in the country.
This marks the second consecutive day that Raknah registered the lowest temperature nationwide. On Wednesday, November 19, the same location logged 9.2°C, signalling a clear onset of the UAE’s winter weather pattern and a gradual decline in temperatures across the country.
Meteorologists noted that the cooling trend is likely to continue over the coming days.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are expected to see minimum temperatures dropping to 23°C and 21°C, respectively, as seasonal winds and clear skies allow heat to escape during the night.
Residents across the country also woke up to dense fog blanketing various regions on Thursday. The NCM issued multiple alerts regarding a drop in horizontal visibility, warning motorists to take extra precautions while commuting early in the day.
The thick fog, which formed during the pre-dawn hours, significantly affected roads and highways. Drivers reported slow-moving traffic on major routes as visibility fell to a few metres in certain areas, particularly around inland regions and open desert roads.
Police authorities across the emirates responded quickly to the deteriorating conditions.
Patrol units were deployed to manage traffic flow, while digital road signs flashed weather-related safety reminders urging motorists to keep safe distances and avoid sudden braking.
In Abu Dhabi, the Police urged residents to use low-beam headlights during fog and avoid overtaking unless absolutely necessary. Similar advisories were echoed by Dubai Police and Sharjah Police, who highlighted common mistakes such as hazard light misuse and high-speed driving during low-visibility periods.
The combination of cold air masses and high overnight humidity contributed to the widespread fog formation. Experts explained that clear skies, light winds, and rapid nocturnal cooling created the perfect environment for condensation close to the ground.
This seasonal phenomenon typically becomes more frequent as the UAE transitions from autumn into winter. Fog-related disruptions, including airport delays and highway closures, are common during this period, though Thursday’s conditions primarily affected road transport.
Residents shared images and videos of the fog-covered skyline on social media, capturing scenes of skyscrapers partially obscured and neighbourhoods enveloped in white mist.
Many described the morning as “wintry” and “refreshingly cold,” noting the stark contrast with the region’s scorching summer months.
For commuters, however, the conditions meant longer travel times and added caution.
Several schools sent notifications to parents urging early departure or allowing slight delays for students due to weather-related traffic.
Businesses also adjusted schedules for outdoor workers, particularly in construction and logistics sectors. Companies emphasised the need for safety briefings, reflective gear, and reduced travel speeds in dense fog areas.
Met officials expect temperatures to continue falling gradually as winter approaches.
Daytime highs will remain mild, but the overnight lows—especially in inland and desert regions—may dip further over the next two weeks.
The NCM also noted that similar fog episodes are likely in the coming days, especially during early morning hours. Residents are encouraged to monitor daily updates, follow traffic advisories, and plan commutes accordingly to avoid delays.
Despite the challenges, many UAE residents welcomed the noticeable shift toward cooler weather. Public parks, outdoor dining areas, and beachfronts have already seen increased activity as families and tourists embrace the more comfortable climate.
With winter festivities and outdoor events on the horizon, the drop in temperatures signals the start of a much-anticipated season in the Emirates. However, authorities continue to emphasise safety, reminding the public to stay vigilant during foggy mornings and to adhere to official guidelines.
As the UAE settles into its early winter pattern, the rare combination of chilly temperatures and thick fog marks the beginning of a season defined by refreshing air, scenic mornings, and a renewed focus on safe travel.