UAE weather: Heavy rain and strong winds forecast on Thursday, NCM issues warning, latest updates

RTA outlines integrated strategy to tackle rainwater pooling and boost emergency readiness across Dubai

Badr Al Sayari, Executive Director of the Safety, Risks Organisation and Planning Department at the Roads and Transport Authority, discussed the authority’s comprehensive strategic plan to proactively address rainwater accumulation, as well as the effective deployment of specialised teams and logistical resources throughout Dubai.

NCM warns of continued heavy rainfall across UAE through Friday night

The National Centre of Meteorology has confirmed that the country will remain under the influence of a rainy weather system through Friday night, driven by a major weather front currently centred over the far western regions, where heavy rain has already been recorded in scattered areas.

The centre indicated that the system’s effects will begin reaching Abu Dhabi between 1:00 AM and 3:00 AM on Friday, before spreading to Dubai, the northern coastlines, and the southern interior, bringing heavy rainfall.

The weather front will then push further into the northern and eastern regions as well as the Al Ain area between 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM, with heavy rain persisting.

Rain clouds may continue to develop over scattered parts of the country, bringing moderate to heavy rainfall at times, through the night of Friday.

Dubai Municipality teams on 24-hour operational footing to tackle weather-related reports

Dubai Municipality has mobilised its teams around the clock, operating under a comprehensive integrated system and proactive contingency plans to ensure rapid response to any incidents arising from the current weather conditions.

Ras Al Khaimah government announces remote work for Friday amid ongoing weather conditions

The Executive Council of Ras Al Khaimah has directed all employees across government departments, authorities, and institutions to work remotely on Friday, March 27, 2026, in response to the prevailing weather conditions.

The directive does not apply to staff whose roles require a physical presence, as determined by their respective government entities, in order to ensure public safety is maintained.

Travellers urged to allow extra time heading to Dubai airports amid adverse weather

Passengers travelling to Dubai International Airport or Al Maktoum International Airport are advised to factor in additional travel time due to current weather conditions, and to check their flight status directly with their airline before setting off.

RTA steps up field inspections to protect Dubai Metro and Tram infrastructure

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is carrying out regular on-site inspections along the Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram corridors as part of its continued commitment to safeguarding rail assets, maintaining operational safety standards, and enforcing compliance with regulations within the Railway Protection Zone.

Sharjah Police closes Al Ezwah Street in Al Dhaid amid flooding from rainfall

Sharjah Police has temporarily closed Al Ezwah Street (Suhaila) in Al Dhaid city, affecting traffic travelling from Ras Al Khaimah towards Al Manama and from Al Dhaid towards Masafi.

The closure comes as a result of rainfall and flowing water in the Suhaila area.

RTA suspends bus services to Sharjah and Ajman due to weather conditions

The Roads and Transport Authority has announced the temporary suspension of bus services to Sharjah and Ajman starting 7:00 PM today, owing to adverse weather and waterlogged roads.

RTA teams are working closely with relevant authorities to restore services at the earliest opportunity, and passengers are encouraged to monitor the authority’s social media channels for the latest updates.

UAE Ministry of Interior warns of heavy fines for rain-related traffic violations

In the interest of public safety and community compliance, the Ministry of Interior has outlined the penalties applicable to traffic violations during rainy weather.

Gathering near wadis, flood streams, or dams during rainfall carries a fine of AED1,000 and 6 black points.

Entering flowing valleys at any level of danger results in a significantly heavier penalty of AED2,000, 23 black points, and a 60-day vehicle impoundment.

Additionally, obstructing official bodies from carrying out traffic management, rescue, or emergency response operations during rain and flooding is punishable by a AED1,000 fine, 4 black points, and a 60-day vehicle impoundment.

Water accumulation disrupts traffic on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road near Al Qusais

Dubai Police has warned motorists heading towards Sharjah on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road of traffic disruptions due to standing water near the Al Qusais area and the workers’ area bridge. Drivers are urged to proceed with caution.

Emirates advises Dubai passengers to check flight status amid adverse weather

Emirates is alerting travellers departing from Dubai International Airport on March 26 and 27, 2026, to stay prepared as the emirate braces for unsettled weather.

Passengers are encouraged to check their flight status online before heading to the airport, plan to arrive at least two hours ahead of their scheduled departure, and ensure their contact information is current through the airline’s manage booking portal to stay informed of any changes.

Hatta Police Station mobilises specialised patrols to ensure public safety amid unstable weather

Brigadier Mubarak bin Mubarak Al Ketbi, Director of Hatta Police Station, announced that dedicated patrols have been deployed throughout the Hatta area to handle emergency calls in mountainous terrain and valleys, as well as to address road incidents brought on by the current adverse weather.

He noted that these patrols are purpose-built for rugged environments, fitted with all-terrain tyres, advanced smart technology, and communication systems integrated with the Command and Control Centre, with crews trained to deliver professional emergency response at any hour.

Brig. Al Ketbi called on tourists, residents, and motorists to remain cautious, keep clear of waterways, and refrain from crossing or entering valleys during heavy rain. He reminded the public to dial 999 in emergencies and to provide their precise location to enable a prompt response.

He also highlighted that Hatta Police Station is operating in full coordination with the Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Civil Defence General Command, and Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services to handle situations such as flood-stranded vehicles, fall incidents, and rain-related road accidents – all under the ongoing campaign “Rain is a Blessing, Don’t Make It a Calamity.”

As rainfall begins and valley water levels rise, the station responds immediately by deploying street patrols, activating speed-reduction warning signs for drivers, and coordinating with land and sea rescue teams, Brig. Al Ketbi added, extending his wishes for everyone’s safety.

NCM issues rainfall accumulation alert for northern and eastern UAE

The National Centre of Meteorology has urged the public to exercise caution and keep away from areas where rainwater has collected.

The alert is in effect today, March 26, 2026, from 12:50 PM until 8:00 PM, covering parts of the northern and eastern regions of the country.

Dubai Police: Essential wet weather driving tips

In the interest of public safety and encouraging responsible behavior on the roads, Dubai Police urged drivers to keep the following precautions in mind when driving during rainy conditions: slow down and reduce speed accordingly, keep a safe gap between vehicles to minimize collision risks, and stay alert to the road and surrounding traffic at all times.

Drivers should also steer clear of waterlogged areas that could destabilise the vehicle, apply brakes gently to avoid skidding, and make sure windshield wipers are functioning properly to maintain clear visibility throughout the journey.

Heavy rainfall sweeps through Ajman amid ongoing weather activity

Ajman is currently experiencing significant rainfall as part of the latest wave of stormy weather hitting the UAE.

Eliminating mosquito breeding grounds through simple preventive steps

Reducing mosquito breeding opportunities plays a key role in protecting public health. Basic measures such as draining standing water, maintaining rainwater collection areas, keeping drainage systems clear, and disposing of waste properly can make a significant difference.

Tending to green spaces, growing plants that naturally repel mosquitoes, and applying suitable larvicides and mosquito control methods further limit their ability to breed and spread in the environment.

UAE issues convective cloud alert for multiple emirates today

The UAE’s National Center of Meteorology has issued a weather alert for convective cloud activity affecting Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Hatta, Al Ain, and surrounding areas.

The warning, valid from 10:45 to 14:45 on March 26, 2026, places most affected zones under an orange “Be Prepared” advisory, urging residents to stay alert as hazardous weather is expected, while inland areas are on a yellow “Be Aware” notice for those heading outdoors.