Spring Rain and 40 km/h Winds Hit UAE: What You Need to Know Before Heading Out

Expect wet roads and elevated winds across the United Arab Emirates as a weather system brings rainfall and wind gusts through northern and eastern territories. The National Centre of Meteorology has issued its forecast for late March conditions affecting transportation, maritime operations, and daily routines for residents.

What to Expect

• Rain concentrated in northern and eastern zones, particularly Al Ain, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and mountainous areas, with coastal regions like Dubai and Abu Dhabi experiencing intermittent drizzle or clear conditions.

• Wind gusts reaching 40 km/h, with typical speeds between 10–25 km/h, creating challenging highway conditions on exposed routes.

• Rough seas across both the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea will affect maritime operations.

Road Conditions and Safety

Driving poses the most immediate challenge for residents. Wind gusts exceeding 40 km/h combined with wet surfaces reduce tire grip and visibility. On major highways like the E11 corridor and routes toward Sharjah and Ajman, exercise caution: reduce speed, maintain at least a 4-second following distance, and avoid sudden lane changes.

Flash flooding in low-lying areas and wadis can develop rapidly. Drivers crossing underpasses and low-point highway sections should avoid areas where water accumulates on the asphalt. Construction sites and outdoor work may experience delays due to reduced visibility and safety protocols.

Marine Activity and Tide Information

Both the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea will transition to rough conditions intermittently.

Arabian Gulf tide times: High tides at 12:02 and 01:15; low tides at 18:34 and 06:43Oman Sea tide times: High tides at 08:45 and 21:04; low tides at 14:54 and 03:27

Fishing operators, recreational boaters, and jet ski enthusiasts should postpone activities. Offshore workers should coordinate with platform supervisors regarding personnel movements and supply transfers during rough sea conditions.

Impact on Daily Life

Supply chains and logistics may experience minor delays as commercial vehicles navigate wet conditions. Public transport in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah may see increased crowding as residents favor buses and metro services.

Outdoor activities including golf, sports academies, and beach clubs typically close or move programs indoors during such weather. Schools maintain normal schedules unless flooding becomes severe.

Utilities and infrastructure: The Water and Electricity Authority and municipal services activate flood monitoring protocols in vulnerable northern zones, particularly wadis in Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah. Power outages remain unlikely in urban areas.

Stay Informed

Residents should rely on official sources for real-time updates. The NCM mobile app—available on iOS and Android—provides radar, satellite imagery, and location-specific forecasts. The RTSAPP from the Roads and Transport Authority displays live traffic conditions. The UAE Ministry of Interior disseminates traffic advisories through official channels. Emergency services are available at 999.

This weather system is typical for late March in the UAE. The region's infrastructure and early warning systems mean this event will pass with minimal serious disruption, though individual inconveniences will be widespread. Residents accustomed to clear skies may find the transition to wet conditions noticeable, but preparation and attentiveness will ensure safe passage through the system.