Parts of the UAE could experience afternoon rainfall on Tuesday, October 20, as strong winds raise dust in some areas and temperatures climb to 40°C inland, according to a weather forecast reported by Gulf News, citing the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM).
The forecast points to unsettled conditions across the country through Thursday, October 22. Showers are possible as clouds develop over eastern areas and extend towards some inland and western locations. Rainfall is not expected to affect every emirate equally.
Winds could become particularly strong around mountainous areas, reaching 60km/h, while gusts may reach 50km/h inland and 35km/h along coastal areas and islands. Blowing dust could reduce visibility in exposed locations.
Where could rain fall in the UAE?
The NCM forecast described conditions as generally fair to partly cloudy, with convective clouds expected to develop over eastern areas during the afternoon.
These clouds could bring rain before extending towards some inland and western parts of the country. Similar conditions are possible on Wednesday, October 21, while further afternoon cloud development could bring showers to eastern and western areas on Thursday.
The outlook indicates a chance of localised rainfall rather than continuous rain across the UAE. Residents in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other emirates should check location-specific forecasts instead of assuming that showers expected in the eastern region will reach their area.
Strong winds may lift dust and affect visibility
Wind speeds are forecast to increase at times, particularly around developing clouds. The strongest gusts could reach 60km/h in mountainous areas, according to the reported forecast.
Dust and sand lifted by stronger winds can make driving conditions more difficult, especially on exposed roads and routes where visibility changes quickly.
Motorists travelling between emirates or towards eastern and mountainous areas should monitor weather conditions before setting off. If visibility deteriorates, drivers should slow down safely, leave sufficient distance from the vehicle ahead and follow official road and weather advisories.
Temperatures could still reach 40°C
Despite the possibility of rain, daytime conditions are expected to remain hot in some parts of the UAE.
The reported forecast gives the following maximum temperature ranges:
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Inland areas: Up to 40°C.
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Coastal areas and islands: 34°C to 38°C.
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Mountainous areas: 28°C to 33°C.
These figures are forecast ranges, not guaranteed readings for individual cities. Actual temperatures will vary according to location and local weather conditions.
The combination of high temperatures and afternoon cloud development means residents should continue to plan outdoor activities around the conditions expected in their specific area.
Mist possible during the early morning
Humidity is forecast to increase overnight and into Wednesday morning, creating the possibility of mist in some coastal and inland areas.
Mist can reduce visibility during the early commute, even when daytime weather is expected to be relatively clear. Residents travelling before sunrise should check the latest forecast and any visibility-related warnings.
The possibility of mist does not mean that all coastal or inland locations will experience reduced visibility. Conditions may vary considerably from one area to another.
How long will the unsettled weather last?
The current outlook indicates that the chance of rain will continue through Thursday, October 22.
On Wednesday, afternoon convective clouds may again develop over eastern areas and spread towards some inland and western locations. Winds could reach 50km/h, with dust possible in affected areas.
Thursday is also expected to bring partly cloudy conditions, with afternoon cloud development over eastern and western areas and a further possibility of rainfall. Winds could reach 40km/h.
Conditions are forecast to become generally fair to partly cloudy on Friday, October 23. Humidity may increase overnight, with fog or mist possible in some western coastal areas early on Saturday.
Temperatures are forecast to begin declining gradually by Saturday, October 24, while clouds may appear over eastern and northern areas.
The timing and location of showers can change as weather systems develop. Residents should consult the latest updates from the National Centre of Meteorology before making travel or outdoor plans.
Q1. Will it rain in the UAE this week?
Rain is possible in parts of the UAE through Thursday, October 22, 2026. The forecast indicates localised showers rather than guaranteed rainfall across the entire country.
Q2. Which areas of the UAE could receive rain?
Eastern areas are among the locations where afternoon showers may develop. Rain-bearing clouds could also extend towards some inland and western areas.
Q3. How strong could UAE winds become on October 20?
Winds could reach 60km/h in mountainous areas, 50km/h inland and 35km/h along coastal areas and islands, according to the reported forecast.
Q4. How hot will the UAE be despite the rain forecast?
Inland temperatures could reach 40°C. Coastal areas and islands are forecast to record highs of 34°C to 38°C, while mountainous areas could see 28°C to 33°C.
Q5. Will Dubai and Abu Dhabi receive rain?
The available forecast does not guarantee rainfall in either city. Residents should check the latest location-specific forecasts from the NCM.
Q6. Is fog or mist expected in the UAE?
Mist is possible in some coastal and inland areas overnight and on Wednesday morning. Fog or mist may also develop in some western coastal areas later in the week.
Q7. Could dust affect driving conditions?
Yes. Strong winds may lift dust and sand, potentially reducing visibility. Drivers should monitor local conditions and follow official road-safety advisories.
Q8. Where can residents check official UAE weather updates?
Residents can visit the National Centre of Meteorology website for weather forecasts, observations and warnings.
