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How heavy rains will move across the UAE this week; more waves expected until March 27
Not all areas are affected equally, but some pockets are seeing heavier downpours; rains may also stop for an hour or two before continuing, said Dr Habib
- PUBLISHED: Mon 23 Mar 2026, 1:34 PM
Residents across the UAE experienced heavy rainfall on Monday, with the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) warning that unstable weather conditions will continue in waves until March 27.
Speaking to Khaleej Times, NCM weather expert Dr Ahmad Habib said rainfall in Abu Dhabi has ranged from moderate to heavy since early morning, with some areas already witnessing water accumulation and minor flooding.
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“Rain started from the western regions, including Al Dhafra, and extended across Abu Dhabi city, with varying intensity,” he said, noting that not all areas are affected equally, but some pockets have seen heavier downpours.
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Moving weather system
The weather system has gradually moved east and northwards throughout the day.
According to Dr Habib:
Rain extended from Al Dhafra towards Abu Dhabi city and Al Ain
Showers began in Dubai (Jebel Ali and Al Barsha) and are continuing to spread
Eastern and northern regions, including Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah, are expected to see increased activity by evening
He warned that mountainous and valley areas (wadis) in the eastern regions could be particularly vulnerable.
“These areas may experience stronger rainfall due to their geography, so people should avoid valleys and low-lying areas,” he said.
Multiple waves of instability expected
The current weather is part of a broader pattern of atmospheric instability affecting the country.
Dr Habib explained that the UAE will experience successive waves of cloud activity over the coming days:
March 24 (Tuesday): A second wave expected, following a similar pattern starting from western regions and moving inland and north
March 25 (Wednesday): Rain likely to concentrate more over northern and eastern areas, including Al Ain and coastal regions
Late March 26 to March 27: A final wave expected overnight, gradually clearing by March 27
“These are not continuous rains in one location,” he clarified. “Rain may stop for an hour or two in some areas, then resume as new cloud bands move in.”
Why is this happening?
The instability is being driven by a low-pressure system in the upper atmosphere over the region, combined with moisture inflow.
Dr Habib said:
A low-pressure system over the Middle East and northern Red Sea is generating cloud formation
At the surface level, moist air from the Arabian Sea is feeding the system
This combination is creating convective clouds, leading to periods of heavy rainfall, thunder, and possible hail
Drop in temperatures, strong winds ahead
After the rain subsides, conditions are expected to shift.
From March 27 onward, the country will be affected by northwesterly winds, which may be:
Moderate to strong, especially over the sea
Accompanied by rough conditions in the Arabian Gulf
Leading to a temporary drop in temperatures
Daytime temperatures are expected to be around the high 20 degrees (Centigrade) on March 28, before gradually rising again.
“Temperatures will start increasing again around March 29,” Dr Habib said, indicating a return to more typical conditions.
Advisory to residents
Authorities are urging residents to:
Exercise caution on roads due to reduced visibility and waterlogging
Avoid valleys and flood-prone areas
Stay updated with official weather alerts
