UAE weather: Heavy rains strike Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah Sharjah; Dubai Police issue warning

Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan declares remote work on December 19

The Government of Dubai has announced that employees across all its entities will work remotely on Friday, 19 December, due to weather conditions.

The decision was made under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.

Dubai Municipality closes public beaches, parks

Dubai Municipality has announced the closure of public beaches and parks across the emirate on Thursday, December 18, and Friday, December 19, due to unstable weather conditions, citing public safety concerns.

Dubai’s Global Village to remain shut until further notice’

Global Village will be closed and all activities suspended from today, Thursday, December 18, until further notice, due to prevailing weather conditions.

The closure has been announced to ensure the safety of visitors and staff.

Emirates issues travel advisory

With tainy and windy conditions are forecast across the UAE from December 18 until midday on December 19, 2025, Emirates has issued a travel advisory.

“Emirates strongly advises all customers departing from Dubai during this period to arrive at the airport 4 hours before their flight. The weather may affect road visibility and driving conditions. Customers are advised to plan extra time for their commute to the airport or use the Dubai Metro. Customers travelling on Emirates First and Business Class with confirmed Chauffeur Drive bookings during this period will be picked up 1 hour earlier than originally scheduled.

“Emirates wishes all customers smooth and safe travels during the busy holiday season. Visit our check‑in options page for more ways to make your journey smoother. Customers are requested to ensure their contact details are correct by visiting Manage Your Booking to receive updates,” the advisory said.

Descent of Jais Waterfalls in Ras Al Khaimah

Dubai Municipality issues safety guidelines

The Dubai Municipality has issued safety guidelines for residents as the nation experiences unstable weather conditions.

The guidelines are as follows:

1. Ensure all electrical connections in your home or building are properly secured and insulated
2. Keep internal rain drains in your home or building clean and unobstructed
3. Use designated rainwater drains to dispose of accumulated rainwater safely
4. Avoid opening or using sewage drains to drain rainwater
5. Firmly secure outdoor furniture at home or in the building
6. Remove tools, equipment, and materials that could be blown away from balconies or rooftops
7. Avoid walking near trees, unstable signs, temporary fences, or construction sites
8. Stay away from areas with water accumulation and avoid walking through them
9. Report any water accumulation or fallen trees by calling 800900 or via WhatsApp

Dubai Media Office issues ‘unstable weather’ warning

Dubai is forecast to see unstable weather conditions from Wednesday, December 17 through Friday, December 19, 2025, the Dubai Media Office said via X.

Intermittent rainfall is expected during the period, accompanied by strong winds of up to 65 km/h, which may lead to dusty conditions and reduced visibility.

Sea conditions are forecast to be light to moderate, with wave heights reaching up to nine feet in the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman.

Officials have urged residents to take precautions, advising the public to avoid valleys, flood-prone and mountainous areas, and to refrain from going to sea. Motorists have been cautioned to drive carefully and reduce speed, while residents are encouraged to follow official government channels for timely updates.

Authorities also reminded the public to contact emergency services when required, with dedicated helplines in place for ​Dubai Civil Defense (997), Dubai Ambulance (998), Dubai Police(999), ​Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (991), ​Roads and Transport Authority (800 9090), Dubai Municipality (800 900) and ​Dubai Health(80060)

UAE MoHRE issues private sector warning

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has urged private sector companies across the UAE to exercise caution and implement all necessary workplace safety measures on Thursday and Friday, December 18 and 19, in light of the expected weather conditions.

Dubai Police calls on residence to exercise ‘extreme caution’

Dubai Police urged residents to remain vigilant as adverse weather conditions are expected across the emirate.

In a post on X, authorities advised the public to prioritise safety by avoiding beaches, marine activities, valleys and flood-prone areas, while calling on motorists to drive with extreme caution and adhere to official guidance.

Heavy rainfall leads to flooded roads in Ras Al Khaimah

Intense rainfall in Ras Al Khaimah has led to flooding on several roads. Officials have called on residents and commuters to exercise caution, avoid flood-prone areas, and stay informed through weather alerts and traffic updates.