Unveiling the Unique Characteristics of Winter in the United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates, a country known for its scorching summers, experiences a distinctly milder winter, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a warm yet pleasant climate during the colder months. Recent reports from Time Out Dubai and other local news outlets provide a detailed look into what winter in the UAE entails.
Mild Temperatures and Limited Rainfall
Winter in the UAE is characterized by mild temperatures and limited rainfall. According to Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomy Society, the UAE witnesses the shortest daytime and longest nighttime around the winter solstice on December 22. Daylight lasts about 10 hours and 34 minutes from sunrise to sunset during this period. Winter temperatures start at an average of 12 degrees Celsius and can climb to a maximum of 25 degrees. By mid-February, the average temperatures rise slightly, reaching around 15 degrees in the day and up to 28 degrees.
Experts from the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) have noted that the UAE has experienced a milder winter recently compared to previous years. December’s average temperature has been higher than in previous years, and January is also expected to follow this trend with temperatures around 24ºC during the day and dropping to 15ºC in the evenings. Despite the overall increase in warmth, some areas still experience cooler conditions.
Changing Weather Patterns
The weather patterns in the UAE are influenced by various factors. For instance, the expansion of a high-pressure system ridge over Siberia brings a cold air mass that affects the country and the Arabian Peninsula. The region is also affected by a succession of low pressure systems and the extension of the Red Sea trough at times, leading to occasional rainfall.
In contrast to the last year, December 2023 saw a lower amount of rainfall. The high-pressure system in the country hindered the dispersal of rain-bearing clouds across the region, leading to drier conditions. This weather shift also impacts neighboring regions like Saudi Arabia, where the likelihood of rainfall was more promising.
Winter Activities and Attractions
The milder winter in the UAE offers a plethora of activities and attractions. From outdoor adventures like dune bashing and quad-biking through the desert to indoor experiences such as Snow Abu Dhabi and SeaWorld Yas Island, there’s something for everyone. The region’s unique climate also allows for a blend of cultural and recreational activities, making it a popular winter destination for tourists and residents alike.
