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Thu, Jan 22, 2026 | Shaban 3, 1447 | Fajr 05:45 | DXB 
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New Year's Eve weather in UAE: Where will it rain? Strong winds, rough seas forecast
Although far from a white New Year’s Eve, the UAE still experienced a chilly start, with temperatures dropping to 3.5°C at Jais Mountain
[Editor's note: UAE is welcoming the New Year with a bang. Stay tuned to the Khaleej Times live blog for the latest updates on NYE celebrations in UAE]
On New Year's Eve, the UAE will see overcast skies, cooler weather, strong winds, and changing conditions. Different regions will experience these effects in their own ways, according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM).
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Official forecasts say most of the UAE will have partly cloudy skies through Wednesday, with cooler temperatures than in recent weeks. Although far from a white New Year’s Eve, the UAE still experienced a chilly start, with temperatures dropping to 3.5°C at Jais Mountain (Ras Al Khaimah) at 7am.
Coastal cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi should see highs of 21°C to 24°C. Inland and northern areas may reach about 20°C during the day, with nighttime lows dropping to 10°C to 12°C. Higher places like Jebel Jais will be much colder. Humidity will rise in the evening, increasing the likelihood of fog or mist in some areas early on January 1.
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Strong winds on New Year’s Eve
Strong northwesterly winds will be common, sometimes gusty enough to lift dust and sand. This could reduce visibility, especially in the northern and eastern interior. In open areas, wind speeds may reach 40-50 km/h.
Will it rain on New Year’s Eve?
Heavy rain is not expected for New Year’s Eve, but there are chances of light or occasional rain in northern and eastern regions and islands because of scattered low clouds. Ras Al Khaimah and parts of Sharjah have already seen some rain last night and are the most likely places to get a few showers today or tonight. Any rain should be light and scattered, not widespread.
Impact in Abu Dhabi and Western region:
The weather will be mostly fair to partly cloudy with moderate winds. Temperatures will be cooler than usual for this time of year. Winds could blow dust inland, reducing visibility on highways and in open desert areas.
Dubai and Sharjah weather:
It will be mostly sunny during the day, with some clouds, and cooler in the evening. Coastal areas should stay dry, but low clouds might bring a few light showers near the northern edges. Gusty winds could affect beaches and outdoor celebrations.
Weather in Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah:
There will be more clouds and a higher chance of patchy rain, especially in Ras Al Khaimah and the northern highlands. Strong winds and rough seas could make coastal areas hazardous.
Interior deserts and mountain areas:
The coldest weather will be inland, where nighttime temperatures could drop to around 10°C to 12°C as winter gets stronger. Fog or mist may form in some valleys and wadis after midnight because of higher humidity.
Rough sea warning in UAE today
Planning for a yacht party? Check the weather forecast before venturing out. Mariners and beachgoers should be careful, as the Arabian Gulf is expected to have rough to very rough seas, and the Oman Sea will be rough to moderate through New Year’s Eve because of steady winds.
Although heavy rain is not expected, the weather will be cooler with strong winds and some local showers in parts of the UAE. People going to outdoor events or traveling tonight should stay alert.
Ajanta Paul
Ajanta Paul is a Senior Editor on the Digital team. A natural leader and newshound, she thrives in breaking news and high-pressure situations — and enjoys reporting on community issues that matter to UAE residents.
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