E-Paper
Sign In
Ramadan weather: Will temperatures in UAE drop in the coming days?
The NCM said forecasts point to generally 'moderate conditions' across the UAE
- PUBLISHED: Thu 19 Feb 2026, 6:00 AM UPDATED: Thu 19 Feb 2026, 7:57 AM
As residents across the UAE settle into the holy month, the weather is expected to remain largely stable, with no sharp drop in temperatures on the horizon.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) said forecasts point to generally “moderate conditions” across most parts of the country. Dr Ahmed Habib, meteorologist at the NCM, said there is no significant change in the pressure systems affecting the UAE at present.
Recommended For You
“It’s not going to be cold. No change in pressure system,” he told Khaleej Times in an interview on Wednesday, noting that over the next five to six days, temperatures are expected to remain steady at around 30–31ºC. In coastal areas, maximum temperatures will range between 24–29°C.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
Night-time temperatures will feel cooler inland, dipping to between 12–15°C, while coastal areas will see lows of around 21°C.
He pointed out that temperatures had climbed to 35°C in some areas in recent days. “On Monday, the temperature dipped due to northwesterly winds but then again it changed,” he said, explaining that the country is now under the influence of south-westerly winds, causing temperatures to rise again since yesterday — a trend expected to continue for a few more days.
Despite the warmer afternoons, conditions are not expected to feel oppressive. “The feeling will be moderate in general, not ‘hot’. If you are in the shade it actually feels good,” he added — a reassuring note for those stepping out before iftar or heading to evening prayers.
What to expect through the month
According to climatological data for this period, average maximum temperatures during Ramadan typically range between 26°C and 32°C. In some inland areas, temperatures may reach up to 40°C during midday.
Average minimum temperatures range from 18°C to 21°C, although certain mountainous and inland locations can see temperatures drop to near or below 0°C in the early morning hours.
The NCM explained that this time of year is usually influenced by the extension of the Siberian high pressure system. At times, the system weakens, allowing low-pressure systems to move in from the west or east. If accompanied by an upper-level trough, these systems may enhance cloud formation and increase the chances of rainfall.
However, long-term forecasts indicate rainfall totals are expected to be around or below the seasonal average of approximately 8mm for the month. The highest 24-hour rainfall recorded during this period in previous years was 287.6mm in Al Shuwaib on March 9, 2016.
Foggy mornings, shifting winds
Humidity levels are expected to rise during night-time and early morning hours, creating favourable conditions for fog and mist in some areas — something already seen in parts of the western UAE this week, where heavy fog reduced visibility.
Dr Habib said fog is likely to persist in western parts until Friday. Over the weekend — particularly on February 22 and 23 — it may extend to northern and coastal areas as well.
“On Thursday and Friday, fog will be in the western parts of the country but after that it will extend to the northern and coastal areas, especially on February 22 and 23,” he added.
The NCM added that average maximum relative humidity during the night and early morning ranges between 70-85 per cent, while daytime minimum humidity levels range between 20-35 per cent.
Winds are typically southeasterly during the night and morning, shifting to northwesterly by afternoon and evening as part of land and sea breeze circulation. While average wind speeds hover around 13km/h, stronger gusts can occur if pressure systems deepen, potentially causing dust and sand in exposed areas.
Longer fasting hours ahead
Fasting hours at the start of Ramadan are approximately 12 hours and 46 minutes, gradually increasing to around 13 hours and 25 minutes by the end of the month, based on Abu Dhabi and surrounding areas. Minor variations of a few minutes may occur depending on location.
