Thick fog settled over Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the early hours of Wednesday, triggering a UAE dense fog warning from the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM). The NCM published red and yellow alerts for reduced visibility, and motorists were advised to exercise extreme caution while driving, as visibility was expected to remain poor until 7:30–8:00 AM.
NCM Issues Red and Yellow Fog Alerts
The NCM confirmed that the dense fog had significantly reduced visibility across multiple districts. In Abu Dhabi, the affected areas included Ajban, Sweihan, Al Wathba, and Jebel Ali Industrial Zone. In Dubai, the fog extended into Dubai Investments Park (DIP) and Al Quoz.
In response to the deteriorating conditions, Abu Dhabi Police posted a safety alert across social media platforms, announcing a maximum speed restriction of 80 km/h on Abu Dhabi roads during the fog period. Authorities appealed to all drivers in Abu Dhabi to abide by this speed limit until conditions improved.
Road Safety Advice for Drivers
Drivers across both emirates were urged to reduce speed, increase following distances, and use fog lights. The speed cap of 80 km/h imposed by Abu Dhabi Police reflects standard UAE practice during red-alert fog events, when visibility can fall to near-zero on key arterial routes.
Motorists should also watch for variable message signs on major roads, which display updated speed limits in real time during adverse weather.
UAE Weather Forecast for the Day
After the morning fog, conditions were expected to clear to mainly sunny skies across the UAE — consistent with the late-May weather pattern. The NCM forecast temperature highs of 43–47°C in most inland areas, while coastal regions could see slightly lower maximums of 37–42°C. Mountainous areas were expected to remain cooler, in the range of 33–38°C.
Overnight lows are forecast at 20–25°C. Relative humidity will be elevated — ranging from 70 to 90 percent along the coast and 55 to 75 percent in mountainous areas — with humidity typically peaking at night and in the early morning, particularly along coastal zones.
Dust and Sand Winds Expected
Beyond the fog, the NCM also cautioned residents about light-to-moderate winds carrying dust and sand throughout the day. Those with respiratory conditions were advised to limit prolonged outdoor exposure and take appropriate precautions when venturing outside.
The combination of dense morning fog, extreme afternoon heat, and dusty winds is a common late-spring pattern across the UAE, and the NCM continues to monitor conditions closely.
