UAE experiences coldest day in 2024; temperature hits 5.3°C

The long-awaited chill of winter has finally descended upon the United Arab Emirates (UAE), bringing with it single-digit temperatures that residents had been anticipating since the season's commencement. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) recently reported a notable drop in temperatures, marking a significant shift in the weather.

On January 10, the NCM officially recorded the coldest day of the year, with temperatures plummeting to 5.3°C in Raknah, located in Al Ain, at 7:30 a.m. This particular area has experienced particularly chilly weather over the past few days, with temperatures as low as 5.8°C recorded on the preceding Thursday.

It's worth noting that Raknah has consistently witnessed colder temperatures this year compared to many other regions. However, on January 9, the mountainous Jebel Jais area recorded a temperature drop to 7.2°C, indicating that the cold spell is not limited to specific locations. Since the beginning of 2024, temperatures across the country have dipped below 10ºC, and there are forecasts predicting even lower temperatures in certain mountainous regions.

Looking back to 2021, Raknah holds the record for the coldest air temperature in the UAE, plummeting to -2ºC. As winter officially set in after December 21, experts have observed that the country is undergoing a relatively milder winter compared to previous years. December's average temperature has been notably higher than in preceding years.

Despite the milder conditions, outdoor and adventure enthusiasts are embracing the colder weather. Many eagerly await the opportunity to revel in the captivating snow-capped mountains of Jebel Jais. Fahad Mohamad Abdul Rehman, a dedicated storm chaser in the UAE, highlights Jebel Jais as one of the most attractive winter destinations. He expresses joy and tranquility in reaching such locations and emphasizes the allure of the white snow-covered mountains during the winter months.

As the temperatures drop, it's time for residents to don their cozy sweaters and relish the unique experience of the UAE's winter chill.