Dense Fog Alert Issued for UAE on February 22, Speed Limits Reduced
The National Centre of Meteorology has issued a dense fog alert for the United Arab Emirates on February 22, with hazardous conditions expected from 1:00 AM to 10:00 AM. The warning affects coastal and inland areas, with visibility significantly reduced during the early morning hours. Residents across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah should prepare for challenging road conditions during this alert window.
What to Expect Today
Fog formation during UAE winter months occurs due to natural atmospheric conditions where cooling sea temperatures trigger condensation near the surface. When moisture-laden air cools overnight, visibility can drop substantially, particularly along highways and major commuter routes. The worst visibility is expected between 4:00 AM and 8:00 AM, coinciding with early morning traffic.
The NCM expects fog to dissipate naturally as temperatures rise and solar heating begins around 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, when atmospheric warming increases air circulation and disperses the trapped moisture.
Road Safety Measures in Effect
Authorities have implemented reduced speed zones on key highways during the alert period. Drivers should:
• Reduce speed by at least 50% when entering fog, even if posted limits suggest otherwise
• Maintain a five-second following distance (approximately 100 meters at highway speeds) behind other vehicles
• Use low-beam headlights and fog lamps if equipped; avoid high beams as they reflect off water droplets and reduce visibility further
• Do not use hazard lights while driving—reserve hazard lights only for stopped vehicles in emergencies
• Avoid sudden braking and maintain steady, predictable movements to prevent chain-reaction collisions
• Budget extra travel time: morning commutes may take significantly longer than usual
Key Routes to Monitor
Major highways including Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), Emirates Road (E311), and Al Khail Road typically experience congestion during fog events. The Abu Dhabi-Dubai corridor and Sharjah-Dubai links may see heavier delays as commuters navigate reduced visibility conditions.
If fog conditions become severe, the safest option is to exit at the nearest interchange and wait rather than continue on high-speed roads where visibility poses significant accident risks.
Air Travel and Schedules
Passengers with morning flights should monitor airline notifications, as dense fog can affect ground operations and runway visibility. Check directly with your airline for any schedule adjustments, and consider arriving at terminals earlier than usual if traveling during the alert window.
Real-Time Updates
The National Centre of Meteorology provides real-time visibility forecasts and alerts through its mobile app and official social media channels. Residents can also monitor road condition alerts from traffic authorities in their respective emirates for up-to-date information on specific route conditions.
Stay alert, adjust your travel plans accordingly, and drive cautiously during the alert period.