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Stormy week ahead in UAE: Heavy rains, thunder, hailstorm expected
The authority warned that some areas could see thunder and lightning, with a chance of hail in limited locations
- PUBLISHED: Thu 19 Mar 2026, 7:39 PM UPDATED: Thu 19 Mar 2026, 9:42 PM
Residents across the UAE can expect a week of unsettled weather, with rain, thunder and possible hail forecast in parts of the country, according to the National Center of Meteorology (NCM).
In its latest forecast covering March 21 to 27, the NCM said the country will be affected by a state of atmospheric instability, as cloud systems move in from the west. These conditions are expected to trigger convective cloud formation across various regions, bringing rainfall of varying intensity at intervals.
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The authority warned that some areas could see thunder and lightning, with a chance of hail in limited locations.
NCEMA said on Thursday that it is taking proactive measures to brace for the unstable weather and to assess the situation. The authority said that it will work with the Ministry of Interior, NCM and other key partners during this time to monitor developments and to keep business community plans in place.
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Rain activity is expected to intensify over the weekend. On Saturday, light to moderate showers are forecast across scattered areas. These may become heavy at times over northern and eastern regions, and Al Ain during the daytime.
Similar conditions are expected on Sunday, with convective clouds bringing rainfall of varying intensity, particularly over the northern and eastern parts of the country as well as Al Ain.
Rainy start to next week
Unstable weather is set to persist into the start of the week. On Monday and Tuesday, cloud development will extend over most parts of the UAE, with rainfall continuing at varying levels.
By Wednesday, cloud cover will remain, with chances of rain easing slightly but still present over some northern and eastern areas.
From Thursday through Saturday, convective cloud activity is expected to redevelop over scattered areas, again bringing intermittent rainfall of varying intensity.
The NCM has advised residents to stay updated with official forecasts and exercise caution during periods of heavy rain, especially with the possibility of reduced visibility and water accumulation on roads.
