If your food or grocery delivery is taking longer than usual, the reason lies in the severe weather currently sweeping across the city.

With heavy rains, strong winds, and thunderstorms hitting Dubai, Dubai Police has advised delivery riders to temporarily halt services during unsafe conditions, putting safety ahead of speed.

Safety first, deliveries later

Authorities have urged riders to avoid travelling during intense rainfall, especially in:

• Flooded streets
• Low-visibility conditions
• Areas prone to water accumulation

This means many delivery services may be paused or significantly delayed, particularly during peak rainfall hours.

Why delays are necessary

Officials warn that riding in such conditions can be dangerous. Risks include:

• Slippery roads and skidding
• Poor visibility due to heavy rain
• Waterlogged streets that can stall bikes

To reduce accidents, riders are being encouraged to wait until conditions improve before resuming deliveries.

Even taxis are running late

Taxi drivers have also been told to drive cautiously and avoid flooded areas, which could slow overall traffic movement across the city, adding to delays.

What you should expect

• Longer wait times for food and grocery orders
• Temporary service interruptions in some areas
• Limited rider availability during storms

What you can do

• Plan ahead and order earlier if possible
• Expect delays and track orders in real time
• Avoid placing urgent orders during peak storms

Commuters across the UAE faced travel disruptions this week as unstable weather conditions forced authorities to take precautionary measures.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced on Friday that several bus routes may be temporarily disrupted due to ongoing adverse weather. The decision comes as heavy rainfall and water accumulation on roads continue to impact safe travel across the region.

Bus services connecting Dubai to neighbouring emirates, including Sharjah and Ajman, were suspended on Thursday after flooding made certain routes unsafe for operation.

Authorities emphasised that passenger safety remains the top priority. Officials are closely monitoring the situation and will resume services once conditions improve and roads are deemed safe.

Residents and daily commuters are advised to stay updated through official RTA platforms for the latest service announcements and travel advisories.

With weather conditions still unpredictable, travellers are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra time for journeys, and consider alternative transportation options where possible.

Residents in the UAE could be in for one of the longest breaks of the year as Eid Al Adha approaches in 2026.

Based on current astronomical predictions, the holiday is expected to begin with Arafat Day on Tuesday, May 26, followed by Eid celebrations from May 27 to May 29. When combined with the weekend, this could mean a break of up to six days—making it an ideal time for travel, relaxation, and family gatherings.

Eid Al Adha, one of the most significant festivals in Islam, is traditionally marked by special prayers, acts of charity, and time spent with loved ones.

While official dates will be confirmed closer to the time through moon sighting, many residents are already expected to start planning ahead for the extended holiday.

Looking further ahead, the UAE calendar will also feature other key public holidays, including the Islamic New Year in June and National Day celebrations in December.