UAE Fog Alert: Major Roads, Flights Disrupted Through Monday

The United Arab Emirates National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) is forecasting variable morning fog and mist conditions from Thursday, 26 February through Monday, 2 March, affecting visibility, flight operations, and daily commutes across the Emirates. Here's what residents need to know to adjust their plans.

What to Expect: Day by Day

Thursday, 26 February: Northern internal zones and coastal areas will experience morning fog before conditions clear. Temperatures will drop to 24-29°C in coastal regions. Winds accelerate to around 40 km/h, with dust activity and rough Arabian Gulf seas by evening.

Friday, 27 February: Eastern interior areas face morning fog, though winds ease and sea conditions moderate. Visibility improves through the day as fog lifts.

Saturday, 28 February: Humidity rises again, particularly along the northern coastal belt and inland valleys. Morning fog is likely before sunrise, but daytime temperatures climb back to warmer levels.

Sunday, 1 March: Moisture patterns shift westward. The western shoreline experiences temperature dips with cloud cover thickening by late evening. Arabian Gulf seas degrade overnight.

Monday, 2 March: Renewed morning mist and fog over interior regions, partly to fully cloudy skies, wind gusts reaching 40 km/h, and rough Arabian Gulf conditions. The Oman Sea remains milder.

Road Safety: What Drivers Should Know

Morning fog reduces visibility during peak commute hours (6-10 AM) on critical corridors including Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), Emirates Road (E611), and Al Ain Road (E22).

Essential protocols for fog driving:

• Reduce speed significantly and increase following distance

• Use low-beam headlights and fog lights only (high beams reduce visibility further)

• If visibility becomes severely restricted, pull over safely and wait for conditions to improve

• Build 15-20 minutes extra travel time into your journey

• Check NCM real-time alerts before departing

Dubai Police and Sharjah Road Operations will enforce variable speed limits through fog zones, typically 80 km/h during peak fog periods. Plan accordingly if you have early morning travel.

Flight Operations: What Passengers Should Do

Both Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Abu Dhabi International Airport are prepared for reduced visibility conditions. Morning fog may trigger flight delays, extended holding patterns, and operational adjustments.

Recommended actions:

• Check flight status the evening before your journey and again 90 minutes before boarding

• Confirm with your airline that morning delays are not expected

• Allow extra buffer time between connecting flights

• Arrive at the airport earlier than usual during this period

Fog typically clears by mid-morning; however, operational cascades can extend delays into afternoon schedules.

Health Precautions for Vulnerable Groups

Residents with asthma, chronic bronchitis, cardiovascular conditions, or respiratory sensitivities should take additional precautions:

• Minimize outdoor exposure during peak fog hours (early morning)

• Wear protective masks if you must be outside during dense fog periods

• Keep prescribed inhalers or medications accessible

• Restrict outdoor time for young children, elderly relatives, and vulnerable household members

• Seek medical advice if breathing difficulties or chest discomfort occurs

For the general population, fog is primarily a visibility concern affecting travel and commuting.

Temperature and Wind Conditions

Expect temperature swings throughout the forecast period. Early mornings will feel crisp (18°C in upland regions), while inland areas may reach 32°C by Saturday afternoon. Winds at 40 km/h will raise dust during certain periods, so residents sensitive to airborne particles should schedule outdoor activities for calmer afternoon slots.

Layering clothing is recommended for early morning travel.

Staying Informed

This weather pattern concludes Monday evening, though fog remains seasonally common through March. Stay updated through:

• NCM app (real-time alerts and forecasts)

• NCM website (ncm.ae)

• Local traffic authority announcements

Treat early morning hours as elevated-risk periods for travel and outdoor activities until this weather system passes. Plan ahead, stay alert, and adjust your routine accordingly through Monday.