Dubai Municipality fields over 2000 calls during heavy December rains

Dubai Municipality (DM) fielded more than 2,180 calls linked across the emirate during the recent spell of unstable weather that hit the UAE. According to a spokesperson for the civic body, reports ranged from water accumulation on main and internal roads to issues in residential neighbourhoods, public areas, and parks.

Last week, there was widespread rainfall and unstable weather across the UAE. There were reports of flooding in several parts of the country. In some emirates, trees were uprooted and structures collapsed. In the aftermath of it, Ras Al Khaimah’s Jebel Jais was shut down for several days. 

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In response to the rainfall, DM said it prioritised public safety and the continued operation of essential services. “Guided by its leadership, Dubai Municipality prioritises public safety and the continued operation of key road networks and residential areas,” a spokesperson said.

Through coordinated emergency field operations, DM teams worked to ensure traffic continuity, maintain access to residential communities, remove weather-related obstructions, and carry out cleaning and drainage works in affected locations. The response focused on keeping major roads functional while addressing waterlogging in internal streets and public areas.

Lessons learnt from April 2024 rainfall

The municipality said its handling of the December rains reflected improvements made after the April 2024 event, which exposed vulnerabilities in drainage systems and prompted a comprehensive review of stormwater management across the city.

"Lessons from the April 2024 rainfall informed enhancements to drainage preparedness, including interim and long-term measures implemented through targeted projects in previously affected areas,” the spokesperson said. These measures included upgrades to drainage networks, improved pumping capacity and better coordination between emergency and infrastructure teams.

The country had experienced unprecedented rainfall in April 2024, when the UAE was hit by the most intense rainstorm ever recorded in the country's history. Over 250mm of rain fell in just 24 hours, making it the heaviest rainfall the UAE’s 75-year recorded history. It caused flooding and massive infrastructure damages. 

As a result, Dubai Municipality said its drainage response has improved, strengthening the city’s ability to manage similar weather conditions while maintaining service continuity and public safety.

Climate experts have warned that intense rainfall events may become more frequent in the region due to changing climate patterns, prompting authorities across the UAE to accelerate investments in resilient infrastructure and emergency preparedness. In November last year, Dubai launched emergency plans and have ensured that ninety percent of the affected areas from the April rains underwent extensive upgrades.

• Dubai

Nasreen Abdulla

nasreen@khaleejtimes.com

Nasreen Abdulla is a Special Correspondent covering food, tech and human interest stories. When not challenged by deadlines, you’ll find her pulling off submissions on the jiu jitsu mats.