As temperatures soar, residents are advised to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, and minimize outdoor activities during mid-day.
UAE's Summer Challenge
The UAE has experienced temperatures exceeding 50 °C this week, ahead of the peak summer season. According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), the highest temperature recorded on Tuesday was 50.3 °C in Um Azimul (Al Ain) at 2 p.m.
Renowned Emirati photographer Rashid Aziz shared a video on Monday showing a scorching temperature of 50.6 °C displayed on the National Meteorological Centre panel in Al Shawamekh, Abu Dhabi.
The most intense summer period typically spans mid-July to late August in the region. Along with high temperatures, humidity levels may rise to 90%, and occasional dust storms originating from the desert are expected.
Reports from the National Centre of Meteorology
Residents have been enduring extreme heat and humidity in recent days, with temperatures hovering around 49–50 °C. On June 21, during the summer solstice, the longest day of the year lasting 14 hours, temperatures reached 49.9 °C in Mezaira (Al Dhafra region) at 3:15 p.m.
As temperatures continue to rise, medical professionals have urged residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and exhaustion. Recommendations include staying well-hydrated, avoiding direct sun exposure, and limiting outdoor activities, particularly during the hottest hours of the day.
In response to the extreme heat, the UAE government has enforced the midday break policy from June 15 to September 15, prohibiting outdoor work under direct sunlight between 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. This measure aims to protect workers from heat-related risks. Additionally, both the government and private sectors have collaborated to establish over 6,000 shaded rest stations equipped with cooling devices and cold water for delivery workers during the midday break.
The UAE's hottest day of the year occurred in August of last year, when temperatures peaked at 50.8°C in Abu Dhabi's Owtaid (Al Dhafra Region) at 2:45 p.m., according to the meteorological service. In order to lessen the effects of the UAE's scorching summers, which are becoming more common, it is essential to raise public awareness and take preventative steps.