The United Arab Emirates recorded its lowest temperature of the season at 3.5°C in Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah, during the early hours of Friday, December 19, 2025. The measurement was confirmed by the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), which attributed the drop to clear skies, dry winds, and the influx of cold northwesterly air from the Arabian Gulf.
Jebel Jais, standing at 1,934 meters above sea level, is the country’s highest peak and often experiences cooler temperatures compared to the coastal and desert regions. Winter temperatures in Jebel Jais frequently range between 5°C and 10°C, but this season’s low has been among the coldest recorded in recent years.
Elsewhere in the UAE, temperatures ranged between 11°C and 17°C across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah, while desert and inland areas dipped below 10°C at night. The NCM reported that humidity levels also increased, raising the chances of morning fog and reduced visibility in some regions.
Weather experts predict that the colder spell will continue through the weekend, particularly in northern and eastern regions. Residents planning mountain trips are advised to wear warm clothing and check weather updates before traveling. This seasonal chill marks the UAE’s transition into peak winter, offering residents and tourists an ideal time for camping, hiking, and outdoor events.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
1. Where was the lowest temperature recorded in the UAE?
The lowest temperature of 3.5°C was recorded in Ras Al Khaimah’s Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest mountain, during the early hours of December 19, 2025.
2. Why did temperatures drop in Jebel Jais?
According to the NCM, the temperature drop was due to dry northwesterly winds, clear skies, and cold air moving in from the northern Arabian Peninsula.
3. How do Jebel Jais temperatures compare to the rest of the UAE?
Jebel Jais experiences significantly cooler conditions throughout winter, while coastal cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi usually remain between 14°C to 20°C.
4. Will this cold weather last long?
Weather officials expect the cold wave to last through the weekend, with chilly mornings and evenings, especially in northern and mountainous regions.