Heavy rain is currently battering the UAE, with lightning and thunder expected to sweep across Dubai this week, and streets in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have become waterlogged. Thunder and lightning struck the world's tallest building, Burj Khalifa, as Dubai faces flooding after heavy storms on Friday, and heavy rain flooded main roads. Gusts of up to 80mph, large hail, and intense lightning were reported, as heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding.
Emergency services have issued a safety warning amid the prevailing weather conditions, and Dubai Police warned that thunder is likely across the country today. United Arab Emirates officials issued warnings to residents on Thursday evening that Dubai would experience unstable weather conditions until the morning with rain, thunder, lightning, and strong gusts of wind. Dubai Police activated an emergency response plan to address potential disruptions, and the command and control centre's readiness levels were at maximum operational capacity. The UAE's National Centre of Meteorology had warned of thunderstorms, strong winds, and continued flood risk, particularly in exposed urban zones and wadis.
Rain continued to fall across parts of the UAE on Friday evening as a low-pressure system brought showers to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ajman, and Sharjah. An unusual weather pattern unleashed severe thunderstorms across parts of the Middle East last week, battering countries including the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, with the Arabian peninsula receiving up to 150mm of rain in just a few days. Further thunderstorms developed on Thursday evening, with a more organised line crossing the UAE and hitting densely populated areas such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The storm was part of a broader weather system affecting Dubai, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, and Abu Dhabi.
Amid heavy rains across various parts of the Emirate of Dubai and fluctuating weather conditions, Dubai Police has intensified its field efforts through its specialized teams to ensure road safety and smooth traffic flow. These efforts are part of an integrated operational system based on rapid response and coordination with partners, which enhances preparedness levels and raises awareness among road users about the importance of adhering to traffic rules and following traffic guidelines.
Heavy overnight rain brought fresh flooding and traffic disruption to Sharjah. Police and pumping trucks have been deployed across the emirate to clear standing water and manage traffic. Sharjah authorities had already activated a rain emergency plan earlier this week, mobilising 1,200 personnel and heavy equipment ahead of the latest downpour.
A weather station on Jebel Yanas in northern UAE recorded 244mm of rainfall, with many others exceeding 100mm in just a few days. Forecasters said Friday morning was expected to bring the final and most intense phase of the weather front before conditions begin to ease.
It remains unknown whether the weather has caused any damage, death, or injuries, and the exact number of people affected or displaced by the flooding has not been confirmed. The total economic impact or cost of the storm damage is unclear, and how long it will take for roads and infrastructure to be fully restored is uncertain. Whether there were any significant delays or cancellations at airports or other transport hubs has not been reported.