Heavy Rain and Storms Expected Across the UAE – What Tourists Need to Know to Stay Safe and Navigate the Weather Wave in 2025

Published on December 16, 2025

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued a weather alert as rain and storms are expected to hit various parts of the United Arab Emirates in the coming days. The rain wave, which began on December 16, 2025, is forecast to continue with light to moderate showers affecting cities including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and the northern Emirates.

As a result, tourists planning to visit the UAE this week should prepare for potential disruptions to their travel plans. Rainfall, strong winds, and reduced visibility could impact outdoor activities, transportation, and tourist attractions. Here’s everything you need to know to stay safe and avoid travel delays.

What’s Happening: NCM Tracks Unstable Weather Across the UAE

According to the National Centre of Meteorology, the UAE is experiencing unsettled weather conditions, including cloud cover, strong winds, and rainfall expected to spread across the country. This weather wave is set to affect coastal regions such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Umm Al Quwain, and Ras Al Khaimah, as well as inland areas like Al Ain and the mountainous regions of the northern Emirates. The weather is expected to last through the end of the week, with potential heavy showers in the Arabian Gulf and Sea of Oman.

Travel Tips: How to Stay Safe and Enjoy Your Visit Amid Rainy Weather

For those visiting the UAE in the next few days, here are some essential travel tips to ensure that your trip remains safe and enjoyable:

1. Be Prepared for Delays in Outdoor Activities

Rain and strong winds may affect popular outdoor tourist activities like desert safaris, beach trips, and water sports. If you’ve planned a desert excursion, city sightseeing tours, or a beach day, check in advance whether the tour operator is rescheduling or canceling activities due to weather conditions.

For example, camel rides, sandboarding, and other desert experiences may be interrupted by poor visibility and wet conditions, so it’s best to stay in close contact with your tour operator to confirm your bookings.

2. Expect Disruptions in Transportation

Heavy rainfall can affect traffic and road conditions, making commutes slower and potentially causing delays in public transport. In cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, roads can become flooded, leading to traffic jams. If you’re traveling by taxi or using ride-sharing apps, allow extra time for your trips.

For those traveling by air, flight delays and cancellations may occur due to reduced visibility and stormy conditions, so be sure to check your flight status and confirm airport conditions with your airline in advance.

3. Keep a Close Eye on Local Weather Updates

Weather in the UAE can change rapidly, so it’s important to stay updated on the latest forecasts. The NCM provides real-time weather updates via their official website and social media channels. Monitoring these updates will help you stay ahead of any potential disruptions to your travel plans, especially when heading outdoors or traveling across the country.

4. Stay Safe in Rainy and Windy Conditions

While the UAE generally has safe infrastructure, heavy rain and strong winds can still pose risks, particularly for pedestrians and motorists. Always seek shelter during heavy downpours and avoid walking in areas with poor drainage where water might collect. For those planning to drive, make sure your vehicle is prepared for wet roads and low visibility. Stay alert for flooding on low-lying streets or near riverbeds.

5. Visit Indoor Attractions

If the weather doesn’t cooperate, there’s no need to worry—UAE is filled with incredible indoor attractions that are perfect for rainy days. You can explore the Dubai Mall, with its wide array of shops, restaurants, and attractions like the Dubai Aquarium and Ice Rink. Another option is visiting the Louvre Abu Dhabi, which offers a unique experience of culture and art, or the Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, which showcases the country’s rich heritage. These venues are rainproof and provide entertainment and learning opportunities for visitors of all ages.

What You Should Know About The Weather and Its Impact on Tourism

While the weather conditions might cause inconvenience, it’s important to remember that the UAE is no stranger to temporary weather disruptions. These periods of rainfall are usually brief and shouldn’t affect long-term travel plans.

Additionally, with fewer tourists traveling during the rainy season, this might be an ideal time to explore popular attractions without the usual crowds, providing a more peaceful experience. The relatively milder temperatures of the winter months can make for a comfortable stay, even if it’s raining.

Where to Go When the Weather Gets Bad

• Shopping and Dining: Explore indoor attractions like shopping malls (Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates) or fine dining in indoor restaurants.
• Cultural Experiences: Visit museums, such as the Dubai Museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi, or Etihad Museum for a cultural experience without the weather disruption.
• Wellness and Spas: Treat yourself to a spa day at one of the luxurious resorts in the UAE to relax and escape the rain.

Enjoy Your Trip to the UAE Despite the Weather

Although the rainy season in the UAE might bring a few challenges, proper preparation can ensure a smooth and safe experience for all travellers. By keeping track of weather updates, making adjustments to your travel plans, and exploring indoor activities, you can continue to enjoy everything the UAE has to offer, even if the weather isn’t ideal.

Remember to stay safe, remain flexible, and enjoy the unique opportunities that come with a quieter, less crowded travel experience in the UAE. Whether it’s exploring Dubai’s skyscrapers, Abu Dhabi’s museums, or relaxing in the comfort of indoor attractions, there’s still plenty to see and do while staying safe and prepared during this rainy weather.