Dubai skies begin to clear as storms ease after days of heavy rains, thunderstorms

Trees sway as overnight storms lash UAE

Thunderstorms struck the nation overnight as trees swayed in the strong winds. Many residents were awoken with the constant lightning and thunder as incessant rains fell across the country.

Authorities issued repeated alerts asking motorists to be safe if they must be on the roads.

According to the UAE's Met Department, today is the last day of unstable weather conditions in the country, with the situation expected to ease over the weekend.

Forecast today

The National Centre of Meteorology said that the country will continue to be affected by a rainy weather system until tonight.

There remains a chance for rain clouds to form over scattered areas of the country, accompanied by rainfall ranging from moderate to heavy at times, continuing until tonight.

Winds will be light to moderate Southeasterly to Northeasterly becoming Northwesterly, and will blow fresh to strong at times. They will cause blowing dust and sand, reduction in horizontal visibility as they hit speeds of 15-30kmph, reaching 60 kmph at times. The sea will be moderate to rough in the Arabian Gulf and in Oman Sea.

The highest temperature in Dubai and Sharjah will be 25°C, while the lowest will be 22°C and 21°C, respectively. Temperatures in Abu Dhabi will range between 21°C and 26°C.

Watch stunning video of Dubai as rains hit

As rains lashed the country, Dubai's stunning architecture stood tall and shone through the night. Take a look at this magnificent video from Dubai Media Office:

What the radar says

This weather radar snapshot reveals an extensive and active rain system sweeping across the UAE, with storm cells of varying intensity stretching from the Arabian Gulf coastline deep into surrounding waters.

The colour-coded imagery, where green indicates light to moderate rainfall, blue denotes heavier precipitation, and red and orange signal the most intense downpours, shows multiple clusters of significant convective activity.

The most powerful cells, visible in red and orange, are concentrated to the east and along the Gulf, with a particularly intense storm system pushing in from the right side of the frame, suggesting the heaviest weather has already made landfall.

Delivery riders not obliged to take orders in rains

One video, shared with Khaleej Times, shows a Talabat delivery rider soldering on as the street is engulfed in rainwater, reaching up to half of the motorcycle the rider is on.

Delivery companies say riders are not required to take in orders and drive in these weather conditions, and that their safety is of utmost importance, KT's Hind Aldah reports.

In response to the aforementioned video, Talabat confirmed to Khaleej Times that it was an isolated incident and does not reflect how the delivery company operates.

“The safety of our riders is and will remain our top priority,” it said.

Talabat added that its riders aren’t obliged to continue delivering in unstable weather conditions if they don’t feel safe, adding that they can “go offline at any time without consequence.”

“Decisions are made in real time based on live data, on-ground input, and continuous monitoring of conditions, which can change quickly across locations. Any incidents identified are reviewed immediately and addressed,” it said in a statement to Khaleej Times.

Watch: Man airlifted to safety in Oman

Police in Oman carried out a rescue operation for a citizen after his vehicle was swept away in Wadi Matam in the Dhofar Governorate. He was then transported to a safe area in good health.

Wadi flows in Ras Al Khaimah

Residents tape up windows

From sandbagging their doors to putting up plastic sheets on windows, some residents went the extra mile to ensure no rainwater made it into their homes.

Take a look at some photographs shared by a KT reader of their Dubai community:

Abu Dhabi confirms continuity of electricity, water services

Abu Dhabi's Department of Energy confirmed the continuity of electricity and water services.

Some Dubai bus routes affected

Dubai's RTA has said that some bus routes may be affected by weather conditions.

Hearing the buzz of mosquitoes?

As rains subside, mosquitoes are bound to follow — especially, in areas of large water bodies or with more greenery.

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment has shared ways to prevent breeding of mosquitoes:

• Empty containers of stagnant water

• Clean areas where rainwater collects

• Ensure the quality of drainage pipes

• Dispose of garbage properly

• Plant mosquito-repelling plants

• Regularly trim grass and plants

• Use mosquito control tablets or larvicides

• Use mosquito traps

Some showers in Abu Dhabi

Isolated showers are reportedly building around Abu Dhabi city area, according to a KT reader.

How some communities prepared for downpour

Several communities across the country were well-prepared for the storm this time around, having learned from the historic rainfall in April 2024.

This community close to the Abu Dhabi-Dubai border set up flood barriers around the buildings. Sandbags were also placed around entrances of community spaces.

Finally, to avoid flooding in any low-lying areas, a water tanker was ready at standby to collect any rainwater accumulation. Take a look at these photos sent in by a KT reader:

Yellow, orange alerts issued for convective clouds

UAE's NCM has issued yellow, orange alerts for convective clouds all over the country till 11.30am. Take a look at the affected areas:

Photos: Sharjah residents wade through knee-deep water after heavy rains

In Sharjah's Al Khan, rainwater has accumulated in low-lying areas causing waterlogging across large areas. Residents could be seen wading through knee-deep waters to get to

Sheikh Hamdan shares magnificent photo of Burj Al Arab in lightning

NCEMA issues alert, warns against entering wadis

UAE's Crisis Management authority has warned against entering valleys or wadis that may overflow — becoming dangerous quickly.

The alert was issued in multiple languages in an effort to warn all residents.

Video: Dubai resident lauds authorities for quick response to rains

A Dubai resident driving through the streets of the emirate documented the clear roads despite being hit by overnight rains.

He enthusiastically thanked authorities for their proactive measures to ensure no accumulation took place on roads. At a traffic signal near City Walk, he highlighted how strong the infrastructure of the city is and pointed out that the drain covers were opened by the side of the roads to ensure no water accumulation.

Emirates Driving Insititute says updates available over email 

The Emirates Driving Institute said that their call centre is only available via email. It also asked customers to contact their neares

Yesterday's highest rainfall

Scattered areas across the UAE experienced moderate to heavy rainfall yesterday.

The National Center of Meteorology stated in a report that Shawka in Ras Al Khaimah recorded the highest rainfall in the country at 77.5mm.

Kalba in the Sharjah came second with 65.8mm, followed by Umm Al Ghaf in Ras Al Khaimah with 60.6mm.

Wadi Al Tuwai in Fujairah recorded 57.2mm of rainfall, while Al Dhaid in the Sharjah recorded 53.9mm.

Cars swim as water accumulates in parts of Sharjah

Watch this video shared on social media of Al Majaz in Sharjah from this morning:

Oman satellite imagery

Satellite imagery over Oman shows the movement of clouds and how they continue to form over the northern governorates. This means that there are chances of rainfall that may sometimes be thundery.

Viral video shows tree swaying in Karama

As the thunderstorm struck UAE last night, trees swayed under the pressure of the strong, howling winds. Take a look at the intensity of the storm:

Dubai Police intensifies field efforts to ensure smooth traffic

As the UAE undergoes fluctuating weather conditions, Dubai Police has intensified its field efforts through specialised teams to ensure road safety and smooth traffic flow.

Watch: Field teams in Ras Al Khaimah rescue residents, clear water accumulation

Ras Al Khaimah Police and Civil Defence forces came together to help residents whose vehicles were stuck in pools of water, and remove rainwater that had accumulated on roads.

Watch below:

What satellite imagery shows

Cell activity is organised into two distinct corridors, an elongated band of heavy cells tracking across the central and western Gulf, and a cluster of intense storms hovering over the Northern Emirates and Musandam coastline to the northeast.

The yellow and orange cores visible in both clusters indicate localised downpours are still ongoing, but the broad, enveloping coverage seen earlier this morning is gone.

UAE airport issues advisory

Sharjah Airport has issued an advisory asking all passengers to stay up to date on the latest flight information due to weather conditions that may affect some schedules.

They have advised passengers to contact their airlines directly to verify the status of their flights before heading to the airport.

Legal action taken against 2 Oman citizens for attempting to cross wadi

The North Al Sharqiyah Governorate Police in Oman has stopped two citizens for attempting to cross a wadi in Badiyah.

Their attempt resulted in their vehicles getting swept away, endangering their lives and the lives of those involved in their rescue.

They have been referred to the judicial authorities to complete the legal procedures against them.

UAE's NCM breaks down key differences between April 2024 rains and this week

Dr Ahmad Habib said the key distinction lies in rainfall intensity and distribution over time.

“In 2024, some areas recorded more than 200mm of rain in less than a day,” he said. “That is very different from what we are seeing now.” By comparison, the latest system brought around 80mm in some areas, with rainfall spread over several days in multiple waves.

According to NCM data for March 26:

• Shoukah: 77.5mm

• Kalba: 65.8mm

• Umm Al Gaf: 60.6mm

• Wadi Al Tuwa: 57.2mm

• Al Dhaid: 53.9mm

“These are significant amounts, but they are not comparable to a single-day event exceeding 200mm,” Dr Habib said.

Watch: How Dubai's RTA maintains public transport systems, smooth traffic amid fluctuating weather

What do skies look like across Dubai?

Gloomy and mostly grey, massive clouds have shrouded Dubai. Not a gleam of sunshine peeking through, the canvas of soft, shifting greys stretches on seemingly endlessly.

The once bright blue, sunny skies have now become mellow and drab — bringing with them a certain melancholy. However, this rare sight is not one that dampens spirits, as residents look forward to the joy of rain and the pleasant chill that follows.

UAE issues alert asking residents to stay away from water ponds

UAE's Ministry of Interior has issued an alert asking residents to stay away from water ponds and fast-moving streams to avoid vehicles from sliding.

Saw back-to-back lightning last night? Here's why

Residents reported near-constant lightning throughout the night - something NCM meteorologist Dr Ahmed Habib said to KT's Haneen Dajani was expected given the type of clouds involved.

“All the clouds were convective, meaning they were electrically active,” he said. “As long as these clouds persist, lightning continues — which is why people saw it happening continuously.”

Changes in Dubai-Abu Dhabi bus routes 

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority has informed commuters thaat Bus Route E101 to Abu Dhabi is now operating from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station instead of Ibn Battuta Bus Station.

This has been temporarily relocated due to current weather conditions and water accumulation on the roads.

Safety rules residents must know

As the UAE braces for what is expected to be the final day of heavy rainfall, authorities are urging residents not to let their guard down just yet. While conditions may begin to ease, lingering water accumulation and unstable weather continue to pose risks across several areas.

The Ministry of Interior earlier issued a call for caution, particularly for motorists navigating wet roads. According to Khaleej Times' UAE Editor Sahim Salim, drivers are advised to reduce speed, maintain a safe distance between vehicles, and ensure clear visibility by using headlights and windscreen wipers. Distractions such as mobile phone use should be strictly avoided, along with sudden braking or dangerous swerving.

Dh2,000 fines for violations

Authorities have made it clear that violations during unstable weather will be dealt with firmly. Specific penalties include:

Gathering near wadis, dams, or flood zones
Fine: Dh1,000 | 6 traffic points

Entering flooded valleys (regardless of risk level)
Fine: Dh2,000 | 23 traffic points | 60-day vehicle impoundment

Obstructing emergency or rescue operations
Fine: Dh1,000 | 4 traffic points | Possible impoundment

Displays of unity, compassion

In Dubai, one act of kindness captured widespread attention. Emirati resident Ahmed Lotah opened his private home to stranded motorists, allowing vehicles to pass through his courtyard to avoid a severely flooded road.

The simple yet generous gesture offered a safe alternative at a moment when many were struggling to navigate waterlogged streets.

Watch the video below:

Across the country, emergency responders remained on duty despite the challenging conditions. In Sharjah, a police officer was seen standing in deep floodwaters along Airport Street, calmly directing traffic and guiding drivers through a hazardous stretch — a quiet but powerful example of dedication in the face of adversity.

As Khaleej Times’ Ruqayya Al Qaydi reported, it was this combination of community spirit and swift institutional response that helped the UAE navigate the worst of the weather — a reminder that even in difficult moments, resilience and solidarity remain at the heart of everyday life.

Rains in Dubai Silicon Oasis

Rain has begun falling again in parts of the UAE, with Dubai Silicon Oasis currently experiencing active showers.

The fresh spell comes even as some areas had started to see clearer skies earlier in the day.

Post-rain sunset hits different 

While parts of Dubai are still seeing lingering showers and cloud cover, there’s a noticeably different scene unfolding in Arjan.

It’s a small but reassuring shift. After days of heavy rain and disruption, the return of sunshine is a gentle reminder that after the storm, the sun does indeed shine again.

What’s it looking like where you are?

If you’re in Dubai and checking your phone, chances are your weather app is telling a similar story — drizzle, thunderstorms, and more showers on the way.

These screenshots show temperatures hovering around 24°C, with rain and thunderstorms expected through the next few hours. In some forecasts, showers are likely to continue well into the evening, with rain chances climbing as high as 100 per cent at certain points. Another update warns that rainy conditions could persist for the rest of the day, accompanied by wind gusts.

So, what’s it looking like where you are?

Is your weather app showing clear skies, or are the rain clouds sticking around a little longer?

Rainbow breaks through clouds in Arjan

In Arjan, as the rain begins to settle, a quiet moment has taken over the skies. A rainbow stretches across the horizon — not fully visible, with part of it still hidden behind thick, lingering clouds — but enough to catch the eye and pause the day for a second.

It’s the kind of sight that brings back a sense of childlike wonder. After hours of grey skies and steady rainfall, the soft colours cutting through the clouds feel like a small reward.

Watch the video below:

Below, though, the scene tells a different story. The playground in the apartment complex sits empty — no children, no laughter, just damp surfaces and stillness after the storm.

Double rainbow lights up Al Warqa skies

Meanwhile in Al Warqa, Dubai, a stunning double rainbow has appeared in the skies, offering a striking contrast to the thick grey clouds overhead. The moment, shared with Khaleej Times by reader Zainab Zafar, captures a rare burst of colour cutting through an otherwise overcast afternoon.

In another moment captured by Khaleej Times reader Zainab Zafar, a rainbow was spotted through a window — as she gently pulled back a dark curtain to look outside. Framed by the edge of the room and the shadow of the fabric, the view revealed a soft arc of colour stretching across the sky.

The contrast was striking. Inside, the dimness of the room; outside, the muted brightness after the rain, with the rainbow forming against lingering clouds. It felt like a small, personal discovery — the kind you don’t expect, but pause to take in anyway.

Rainbow graces Sharjah skies

In Sharjah, another rainbow graced the skyline. Khaleej Times' Poojaraj Maniyeri captured a stunning shot of it glowing above the buildings, with the lush greenery below adding to the magical scene.

Moments like these, especially after the rain, can bring back that childlike wonder we forget as we grow older.

Rainbow graces Mirdif after showers

Meanwhile, in Mirdif, KT reader Nad Al Hammar shared a photo of a rainbow stretching like a bridge between two buildings. Against the grey skies, it stood out as the only splash of colour.

These fleeting natural spectacles remind residents that even in everyday life, nature has a way of sparking joy and wonder.

Sunset shines bright against overcast skies

In Arjan, the glowing orange sun cut through the grey skies, painting a bright sunset that reminds us that even after cloudy days, warmth and light are always ahead.

UAE banks alert customers to possible service disruptions

Banks across the UAE have warned customers that some of their services may be temporarily unavailable following the heavy rains experienced this week.

Lenders said that branches and automated teller machines (ATMs) could be affected due to the downpours over the past few days, and advised customers to rely on mobile apps and online banking services as alternatives.

As reported by Khaleej Times' Business Editor Waheed Abbas, banks are closely monitoring the situation to minimise disruptions and ensure customers can continue accessing essential services.

Abu Dhabi Police reduce speed limit to 100kmph

Abu Dhabi Police have activated a speed reduction system, lowering the speed limit to 100 km/h on the Abu Dhabi–Al Ain Road between Khaznah and Rima.

Rains continue pouring in some parts of UAE

While rains have eased in some parts of the UAE, showers continue in others.

The Storm Centre shared a video showing the “rains of blessing” pouring down on Al-Watan Street and Hatta Road, forming puddles on the road.

Abu Dhabi reduces speed limit

Abu Dhabi Police announce that speed limits is lowered to 100kmph on Nahil Road.

'The land of beauty and wonder'

Director of Strategic Communications Afra Al Hameli posted a striking photo on X showing a camel in the desert with a rainbow arching in the backdrop.

The desert landscape, dotted with patches of greenery, is illuminated as the rainbow appears amidst the clouds, while glimpses of blue sky peek through the grey skies.

UAE records high temperatures despite rains

In spite of the rain, the UAE recorded high temperatures today.

The highest temperature of 30.5°C was recorded in Mezaira (Al Dhafra Region) at 2.45pm UAE local time, according to a post by the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM).

Fair to partly cloudy skies ahead

After a week of rainfall, UAE residents can expect fair to partly cloudy weather on Saturday (February 28) according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM).

NMC issues orange alert

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued an orange alert for convective clouds across parts of the UAE, in effect until 8pm tonight.

An orange alert signals that residents should be on high alert, as hazardous weather events are expected. Authorities urge the public to comply with all safety advice and take necessary precautions during this period.

Kids play as wadis flow in Al Ain

The UAE Storm Centre shared a video capturing the joyous scenes of children running and playing in the streaming waters of flowing wadis in Al Ain.

Watch the video below:

Small businesses shut temporarily

As reported by Khaleej Times’ SM Ayaz Zakir, parts of the UAE saw small businesses grappling with water entering their shops and temporary closures following heavy rain and strong winds.

From tailoring outlets to barbershops, cafeterias, and laundries, flooded roads and waterlogged streets created access challenges, but many shop owners said the timing of the rain helped them avoid major losses.

“We knew this could happen, so we prepared in advance. After what we went through in April 2024, we didn’t want to take any chance,” said Hameed Khan from Rehan Al Turki Tailoring and Embroidery in Al Rashidiya, Ajman. “Soon after Eid, on March 22, we moved items to a higher level inside the shop.”

Rain begins to ease

The rain has finally eased, leaving the streets and gardens drenched and alive. Every leaf, every blade of grass seems to glimmer with renewed life. Patches of greenery, usually subtle against the sand and stone, are now vibrant.

Some parts of Dubai see more rain

Just as UAE residents thought the rains were easing, some parts of Dubai are seeing a gentle drizzle once again. In Arjan, the clouds hung heavy and grey, brooding over the street.

There was a quiet rhythm in the drizzle — soft, persistent, and soothing — reminding everyone that nature doesn’t rush, and sometimes the sky simply has more to give.

Thunder rolls amid drizzle

A soft rumble of distant thunder drifts through the drizzle in parts of Dubai.

For many whose weekends start now and stretch until Sunday, it’s the perfect excuse to stay in, relax, and spend time with family and loved ones, cozying up as the rain taps lightly against windows.

Rains hit Dubai Silicon Oasis

The skies over Dubai Silicon Oasis are opening up once again, with raindrops tapping softly on streets and rooftops. Adding to the atmosphere, distant thunder can be heard rumbling through the grey clouds.

Aftermath of the rains

Light rains are once again gracing Dubai streets. For some residents, the aftermath is visible from their balconies — now messy, muddy, and scattered with droplets carried by the wind.

Yet, perhaps it’s a small price to pay, as the rains offer the perfect excuse to cozy up indoors, sip a warm drink, and watch the city transform under the gentle showers.

Karama after the rain

In Karama, the streets glisten, reflecting the lights of passing cars and nearby shops.

In a photo shared by Khaleej Times' Thanweeruddin Mohammad, the sky remains heavy and grey, a soft blanket of clouds hanging over the city, yet the Dubai Frame stands tall and resilient in the background.

City life and enduring landmarks

Even on a rainy day, Khaleej Times' Thanweeruddin Mohammad captured a striking contrast of city life and enduring landmarks — the wet streets shimmering with light, and iconic structures reminding residents of resilience and beauty, come rain or shine.

Heavy rains, lightning continue in Abu Dhabi

In a video shared by the Storm Centre, heavy rains and flashes of lightning continue to sweep across Abu Dhabi, painting the city in dramatic, stormy hues.

Thunder continues across parts of Dubai

Even though the rain seems to have eased for now, the soft rumble of thunder continues across parts of Dubai.

Streets glisten from earlier showers, and puddles shimmer under the muted light, a quiet reminder that the storm isn’t quite over.

Rains continue in Al Ain

In a video shared by the UAE Storm Centre, rain continues to fall steadily in Al Ain, even as conditions ease elsewhere. The streets glisten under the rain, reflecting the street lights, while the roads appear quiet and nearly empty.

Thunderstorms, hail hit Oman

The rainy weather isn’t limited to the UAE, with neighbouring Oman also experiencing intense conditions.

According to the Oman News Agency, several governorates — including Al Buraimi, A’Dhahirah, A’Dakhiliyah, North and South Al Batinah, Muscat, North and South A’Sharqiyah — are witnessing thunderstorms accompanied by strong downdraft winds and hail.

Authorities have urged residents to stay alert, as unstable weather continues to impact parts of the country.

UAE urges public to follow safety guidelines

The UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment has urged residents to prioritise safety and follow precautionary measures during rains.

In a post on X, the ministry said that prevention and adherence to basic guidelines remain the best way to protect both individuals and the wider community.

Residents are advised to avoid standing water, stay away from flood-prone areas, and refrain from driving unless absolutely necessary. Authorities also stressed the importance of ensuring vehicles are well-prepared and equipped with emergency supplies.

The ministry added that following these simple steps can significantly reduce risks and help keep everyone safe during periods of unstable weather.

Speed limit reduced

Abu Dhabi Police reduced the speed limit to 100kmph on Tahnoun Bin Mohammad Road, between Al Hayer and Al Fuqqah.

Ajman deploys rapid response teams

In Ajman, authorities have rolled out rapid response vehicles, working quietly behind the scenes to manage emergencies and keep traffic flowing. It’s a reassuring sight — a reminder that while the weather may be unpredictable, there are teams on the ground making sure daily life stays as steady and safe as possible.

Rainbow lights up Dubai skies

A stunning image of a rainbow shared by the Dubai Media Office lit up the skies, its bright, vivid hues cutting through the gloom. After days of heavy, dark clouds, the sight feels almost refreshing — a gentle shift in mood, and a reminder of how quickly the skies can change.

The Dubai Media Office also shared striking images of staff at work — with a vivid rainbow stretching across the backdrop.

RAK Police issue safety guidelines

Ras Al Khaimah Police issued safety guidelines amid the rainy conditions.

Watch the video below:

Pet owners urged to take precautions

As unsettled weather and spells of rain continue across the UAE, authorities are reminding residents that it’s not just people who need protection — pets do too.

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCaE) is urging animal owners to stay alert and take simple but important precautions, ensuring their pets remain safe and sheltered as conditions shift.

Hail strikes Al Ain

A video shared by the UAE Storm Centre captures hailstones falling south of Al Ain.

Watch the video below:

Dubai skies begin to clear

The stormy skies are finally giving way, with scattered clouds in some parts of Dubai drifting across a clearing sky.

The scene has a serene quality — the open, empty roads and the gradually clearing sky hint at a return to normalcy.

Silence settles over Dubai

A quiet stillness settles over Dubai bringing a sense of calm to the city. The roads lie empty, glistening from earlier rain.

'We were lucky'

As heavy rains hit parts of the UAE, some shops experienced flooding and temporary disruption, but business owners say the timing helped them avoid significant losses.

Khaleej Times' SM Ayaz Zakir noted while operations were affected for a day or two, the rain came at a moment that minimised the impact on both staff and customers.

“If this had happened before Eid, it would have affected not just us but our customers as well,” said Hameed Khan. “This time, we were lucky.”

Speed limit reduced

Abu Dhabi reduced its speed limit to 100kmph on Al Taf Road, bewteen Sweihan Roundabout and Al saad Bridge.

The speed limit reduction also applies to Umm Al Zomoul road (Alwiqan - Hamran).

Oman issues safety advisory

While the storm is easing in the UAE, Oman issued a warning for residents near Wadi Al Kabir

The National Committee for Emergency Management in Oman has urged residents along Wadi Al Kabir in the Governorate of Muscat to exercise caution and vigilance, advising them to stay away from the wadi’s course and low-lying areas due to the heavy flow and high water levels.

That's a wrap!

Today marks the last day of unstable weather conditions, with the situation expected to improve over the weekend.

Some areas, such as parts of Sharjah, experienced waterlogging after overnight showers, while Shawka in Ras Al Khaimah recorded the highest rainfall in the country at 77.5mm. Overall, the weather is now gradually stabilising.

Residents are advised to avoid water ponds and streams.

Thank you for staying with us for our live coverage.

We are closing this live blog for now, but keep following Khaleej Times for the latest updates on weather and safety across the UAE.