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UAE weather alert: Brace for blowing sand and drop in temperature

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7 months ago

May 6, 2025

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After hitting a sizzling 47.2°C yesterday in Bada Dafas, Al Dhafra, the UAE is finally in for a bit of relief from the heat, but don’t expect it to be comfortable. According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), Tuesday is set to be fair but dusty, with temperatures dipping slightly, especially across western parts of the country.

If you’re inland, you’ll still feel the heat with highs between 39°C and 43°C, while coastal areas and islands can expect slightly cooler conditions hovering between 34°C and 38°C. However, it’ll be cooler in the mountains, with temperatures ranging from 32°C to 37°C.

But while it might feel a bit more bearable, dust is the real problem today. Winds will be light to moderate, but could get gusty at times, reaching up to 40 km/h, especially in the west, kicking up sand and dust and reducing visibility on the roads. That means if you’re driving or working outdoors, you’ll want to take extra precautions.

The Arabian Gulf is expected to get rough by the afternoon, shifting from moderate to very rough, while the Oman Sea will also see choppy conditions later tonight.

Authorities are urging the public to stay alert, especially in areas prone to blowing sand. Reduced visibility and compromised air quality can pose serious risks, not just for drivers but also for people with respiratory conditions or those working outside.

If you’re stepping out today, check the weather, wear a mask if needed, and steer clear of open desert roads.

Related Topics:blowingsand Dubai duststorm dustyconditions motoristalert NCM Summer temperatures uae Weather

Michael Gomes

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

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Dubai-India travel: Security procedures triggered for Emirates flight following bomb threat email, flight lands safely

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1 day ago

December 5, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Authorities at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport activated full emergency protocols on Friday after receiving a bomb threat email linked to Emirates flight EK526 travelling from Dubai (DXB) to Hyderabad (HYD).

According to GMR officials, the threat email landed in the airport’s customer support inbox around 7.30am on December 5. Despite the alert, the flight continued under strict monitoring and landed safely at 8.30am.

Once on the ground, the aircraft was immediately moved to an isolated bay. Passengers were safely deboarded, and security te

ams carried out standard bomb threat checks. Investigations are currently underway.

Emirates confirmed the incident in a statement to local media, saying authorities had alerted them to a “potential security threat” to EK526.
“All standard security procedures were implemented by the relevant local authorities with full co-operation from Emirates’ ground teams,” the airline said, adding that “the safety and well-being of passengers and crew remain the highest priority.”

Authorities say all threats are being investigated, and extra security measures remain in place at the airport.

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Driving through Abu Dhabi this week? Here are the road closures you need to know about

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1 day ago

December 5, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Abu Dhabi motorists can expect some delays over the next few days, with the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) announcing a series of partial road closures across key routes in the capital. Drivers are being urged to plan, allow extra travel time, and follow diversions to avoid congestion.

Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street

A major set of phased lane closures will take place near Sheikh Zayed Bridge from Tuesday, December 9 to Monday, December 22, 2025.

Three left lanes will be closed from 12am on December 9 until 10pm on December 15.
Two right lanes will then shut from 10pm on December 15 until 6am on December 22.

Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Street

Another temporary closure is scheduled on Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Street from 5pm on December 5 until 5am on December 8.

Authorities explained that these restrictions are part of ongoing road enhancement projects designed to improve traffic flow and safety across the city. Motorists are encouraged to use alternative routes wherever possible during the maintenance period.

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Sharjah Police give deadline to remove National Day stickers, or face fines

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1 day ago

December 5, 2025

Michael Gomes

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If your car is still sporting National Day decals, it’s time to take them off. Sharjah Police have announced that all vehicle owners must remove their UAE National Day celebration stickers by Saturday, December 6, and those who miss the deadline will face violations.

The reminder follows a crackdown during the 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations, where authorities impounded 106 vehicles and nine motorbikes for dangerous and irresponsible behaviour on the roads.

According to Sharjah Police, the violations included:

Creating loud noise and disturbing residents
Driving recklessly and endangering others
Operating vehicles without a valid licence

Police officials urged motorists to celebrate responsibly and avoid turning festivities into safety risks.

However, there has been a shift in decorating trends this year. Many residents opted for cleaner, simpler, more elegant designs to showcase their UAE pride ahead of the long weekend, and demand for custom decals surged.

Authorities are now urging residents to ensure all celebratory stickers and decorations are removed by the set deadline to keep roads safe and avoid penalties.