In Dubai's Deira district. Picture for illustrative purposes only. EXPAT MEDIA

The UAE is heading into noticeably cooler weather, with a significant temperature drop expected after December 23, according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM). The date coincides with the winter solstice and the official shift from autumn to meteorological winter. In its December climate summary, the NCM said daytime and nighttime temperatures typically fall by 3°C to 6°C compared to November. The drop happens as the UAE comes under the influence of stronger high-pressure systems from the north, bringing colder northwesterly winds. These winds push nighttime temperatures lower, especially in inland and mountainous areas such as Al Ain and Ras Al Khaimah. Dubai and Abu Dhabi also cool down, though coastal temperatures remain slightly milder. Upper-level weather systems during December also bring periods of cloud cover and chances of rainfall, sometimes accompanied by thunder. The UAE frequently comes under the influence of the Siberian high, which sends colder air into the region and can make early mornings noticeably chilly. The NCM warned that relative humidity rises during this month as moist air moves in from the Arabian Gulf, creating ideal conditions for light or dense fog. Authorities urged motorists to drive cautiously, especially during early-morning commutes, as fog is more frequent in December. In 2014, the UAE recorded 20 foggy days — the highest for the month. Average temperatures in December range between 17.7°C and 21.8°C, with daytime highs between 21.7°C and 27.4°C. Nighttime lows can fall to 12.9°C, and even colder in the mountains, where the UAE once recorded a December minimum of –0.7°C at Jabal Jais in 2004. Winds remain mostly light to moderate, averaging 11 km/h, but strong gusts are possible, with past records reaching up to 87 km/h. Humidity levels remain high, averaging 63 percent, while the heaviest December rainfall ever recorded was 208.4 mm in Dadna in 2006. The NCM said the month marks a “clear shift into cooler, more humid winter conditions” as the country moves toward its coldest weeks of the year. ICA/Expat Media
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