Authorities across the UAE have stepped up safety measures as unstable weather continues to impact multiple regions, bringing rainfall, strong winds, and reduced visibility.

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued yellow and orange alerts across most parts of the country, warning of varying rainfall intensity and winds reaching up to 50 km/h. While sea conditions remain light to moderate in the Arabian Gulf and Sea of Oman, residents have been strongly advised to avoid valleys, flood-prone areas, mountainous regions, and the sea.

Drive safely

Authorities are urging motorists to drive cautiously, reduce speed, and maintain safe distances due to slippery roads and poor visibility. Dubai Police confirmed full readiness to respond to emergencies and stressed the importance of following traffic laws and avoiding risky areas such as watercourses and valleys.

Emergency contact numbers have been shared by officials in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, ensuring residents can quickly seek assistance when needed. For emergencies, the public can contact 999, while non-emergency cases can be reported via 901.

Flight disruption

Meanwhile, major airlines including Emirates, flidubai and Air Arabia have issued travel advisories. Passengers are urged to allow extra travel time to airports, check flight status regularly, and stay updated on potential delays or schedule changes. Air Arabia noted that operations in Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah may be affected. Passengers have been urged to check their flight status ahead of departing for the airport.

Residents told to avoid going outdoors

The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority also reassured the public that emergency alert systems remain active, clarifying that warning sounds should not be confused with weather-related disturbances.

Residents have been urged to remain indoors during severe weather and avoid going out unless absolutely necessary, stressing that precautionary behaviour is essential to prevent injuries and accidents during sudden weather changes.

The ministry also advised residents to protect vehicles and outdoor property by covering them where possible.

Weather conditions are expected to persist through the week, with authorities emphasising the importance of staying informed through official channels and avoiding unnecessary travel.

Unstable weather conditions have prompted authorities in Sharjah to take precautionary measures, including the temporary closure of all public parks and medical fitness centres to ensure public safety.

Residents are urged to avoid open areas and follow official weather updates as heavy rainfall continues to impact the emirate. A massive response effort is underway, with over 1,200 personnel deployed alongside water tankers, high-capacity pumps, and recovery vehicles to manage flooding and assist stranded motorists.

Free parking

In a move to ease mobility during the disruption, Sharjah has also announced a temporary exemption from public parking fees across all zones for today. Authorities confirmed that normal parking charges will resume once weather conditions improve.

Stay safe, stay informed, and avoid unnecessary travel during this period.

Soccer superstar Erling Haaland has announced a major investment in Norway Chess, backing the launch of a new global competition format, the Total Chess World Championship Tour.

The initiative, unveiled in Oslo, aims to transform chess into a more spectator-friendly and widely accessible sport. Haaland has partnered with Norwegian business leader Morten Borge to establish a new company, Chess Mates, which will become a significant stakeholder in Norway Chess.

Haaland said his investment reflects a strong belief in chess as both a mental discipline and a global spectator sport.

“Chess is an incredible game. It sharpens your mind, and there are clear similarities to football. You have to think quickly, trust your instincts, and think several moves ahead,” he said.

The newly announced Total Chess World Championship Tour is set to feature four tournaments annually across different cities, bringing together the world’s top players. The competition will crown an overall world champion based on combined performance in three formats: Fast Classic, Rapid, and Blitz.

The tour has been approved by the International Chess Federation for a minimum of 16 years, underscoring its long-term ambition and significance within the global chess calendar.

A pilot tournament is scheduled for autumn 2026, with the first full season expected in 2027. Each season will include four events and offer a minimum prize pool of $2.7 million.

Kjell Madland, CEO of Norway Chess and Total Chess, welcomed Haaland’s involvement, describing it as a major step forward for the sport.

He said Haaland’s global influence and appeal would help attract new audiences and elevate the profile of chess worldwide, adding that preparations are now in the final stages to secure host cities for the inaugural tour.

With millions of fans worldwide, Haaland’s move into chess investment signals a growing crossover between elite sport and strategic mind games, potentially reshaping how chess is consumed and followed globally.