Is it Winter Yet in UAE? Here's What Weather Experts Say

UAE residents are eager for winter, but it's not quite here yet. Dr. Ahmed Habib from the National Centre of Meteorology clarifies that the official winter in the UAE starts after December 21.

Winter's Arrival Timeline

Winter in the UAE usually kicks in around the third week of December, around 100 days after the Suhail star appears in August. This shift brings colder temperatures and the start of the coldest part of the year.

Suhail Star's Significance

The Suhail star, which is widely recognized in the Arab world, marks the approach of winter in the UAE. Its appearance near the southern horizon signifies the beginning of colder weather.

Understanding Winter Solstice

On December 22, the winter solstice signals the start of the Northern Hemisphere's three-month cold season. It's the shortest day globally due to the hemisphere being farthest from the sun.

Anticipating Extreme Winter Conditions

Mid-January is predicted to bring the peak of winter in the UAE. Experts foresee temperatures dropping below 5°C, specifically in mountainous areas.

Intensity of Coldness

Around mid-January, a 10-day period, known as the "period of severe cold," is expected in the Gulf heritage calendar within the Al Drour system. Temperatures could dip below 5°C in the desert and below 0°C in high mountains, according to Ibrahim Al Jarwan, chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Society.