UAE temperatures set to fall this weekend as humidity brings fog risk
Cooler weather is on the way for the UAE this weekend, with temperatures dropping slightly and humid conditions expected to bring fog and mist to coastal areas overnight.
UAE temperatures set to fall this weekend as humidity brings fog risk
Residents across the UAE can expect a welcome respite from the scorching heat this weekend, as temperatures are forecast to ease and humid conditions bring a chance of fog and mist to some areas.
The National Center of Meteorology, the UAE's federal meteorological and seismological agency established in 2007 to monitor atmospheric changes across all Emirates, said Saturday will see temperatures drop slightly compared to recent days. Coastal and island areas will see highs of 39°C to 45°C, while inland regions will reach 44°C to 47°C and mountainous areas between 33°C and 38°C.
The forecast marks a shift from the intense heat that has gripped the country in recent weeks. While typical July daytime temperatures generally range between 41°C and 43°C, summer conditions from June to September can push the mercury up to 50°C, particularly in southern inland areas.
Saturday's weather conditions
Saturday's conditions are expected to be generally fair, with low clouds developing over eastern areas during the morning. Light to moderate winds will blow at 10 to 20km/h, reaching 30km/h at times, while seas will remain slight in both the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman.
Sunday brings increased humidity and fog risk
The cooling trend is forecast to continue into Sunday, with another slight drop in temperatures across much of the country. Humidity will increase overnight and into Monday morning, raising the probability of fog or mist over some coastal and inland areas. The phenomenon occurs when overnight air temperatures fall to the dew point and moisture from the Arabian Gulf combines with rapid cooling of desert surfaces.
Humidity levels in UAE coastal areas during summer frequently reach 75-90%, and can climb to around 90% in some locations during late-night and early morning hours, creating conditions that can reduce visibility for motorists.
Monday outlook: possible rainfall in eastern areas
From Monday, conditions are expected to become more unsettled. Convective cloud formation is forecast over eastern parts of the UAE and could bring afternoon rainfall. The pattern is linked to the seasonal development of Al Marawih clouds over the Hajar Mountains, driven by moist air from the Sea of Oman that is forced upwards by the terrain, cooling and forming cumulonimbus clouds capable of producing thunderstorms.
Winds are expected to strengthen through the early part of next week, reaching 40km/h at times and causing blowing dust, while the Arabian Gulf may become moderate to rough at times.
Tuesday and Wednesday forecast
By Tuesday and Wednesday, the NCM expects conditions to remain fair to partly cloudy, with further convective cloud development over eastern and southern areas during the afternoons, bringing a possibility of local showers. Fresh northwesterly winds will continue at times, while sea conditions are forecast to remain slight to moderate in the Arabian Gulf and slight in the Sea of Oman.
Recent temperature records
The cooler spell comes after the UAE recorded its highest-ever temperature of 51.8°C in Sweihan on August 1, 2026, earlier this summer. In June, temperatures reached 49.9°C in Mezaira, Abu Dhabi, marking the highest temperature recorded at the official start of summer this year.
