Residents across the UAE should prepare for several days of unstable weather conditions, with rainfall, strong winds and rough sea conditions forecast from March 5 to March 8, 2026. According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), the country will be affected by a low-pressure system combined with an upper-air trough, creating ideal conditions for cloud formation and rainfall across several emirates.
The weather system is expected to bring scattered rainfall, active winds reaching up to 40km/h and rough seas in the Arabian Gulf, with northern and eastern areas likely to see the most rainfall.
Motorists and residents are being urged to exercise caution during periods of rain, strong winds and reduced visibility.
Rain expected across several parts of the UAE
Forecasts indicate cloudy skies and scattered rainfall across multiple regions, with showers expected to intensify in certain areas between March 5 and March 8. March 7 is expected to see peak levels of rainfall.
Northern and eastern regions, including mountainous areas, are likely to see more consistent rainfall, while coastal and western areas could experience intermittent showers and cloudy conditions. Weather models show the system moving gradually across the country, which means rainfall may occur at different times across different emirates.
March is historically one of the UAE’s more active weather months, when seasonal atmospheric changes can bring occasional storms and rainfall to the region.
Strong winds could reach 40km/h
Along with rainfall, active winds are expected across land and sea, potentially reaching 40km/h in gusts.
These winds may lead to:
- Blowing dust and sand in exposed areas
- Reduced horizontal visibility on highways
- Difficult driving conditions during rainfall
- Choppy waters in coastal areas
Wind direction is expected to shift between south-easterly and north-westerly, with speeds generally ranging from 10–25km/h, increasing during cloud activity.
Drivers traveling on open highways and desert roads should remain cautious, especially during periods of strong gusts.
Rough sea conditions expected in the Arabian Gulf
Marine forecasts indicate that the Arabian Gulf could become moderate to rough during the unstable weather period. The Sea of Oman may remain slight to moderate, although conditions could intensify during periods of stronger wind.
These sea conditions may affect:
- Fishing boats
- Small marine vessels
- Coastal water activities
Authorities are expected to advise maritime operators to monitor official weather updates and avoid sailing during rough sea conditions.
Flooding risks and road safety during rainfall
Although rainfall totals are expected to remain light to moderate overall, short bursts of heavier rain can lead to temporary water accumulation on roads and low-lying areas. Certain areas of the UAE are more prone to sudden runoff, particularly wadis and mountainous regions where rainwater can collect quickly.
Motorists should avoid:
- Driving through flooded roads
- Entering wadis during rainfall
- Sudden braking on wet highways
Safety tips for residents during the weather alert
Authorities recommend several precautions during periods of unstable weather.
For drivers
- Reduce speed during rainfall
- Maintain safe following distances
- Avoid flooded underpasses or low-lying roads
Safety for residents:
- Secure outdoor furniture or loose objects due to wind
- Monitor weather alerts and traffic updates
- Limit outdoor activities during thunderstorms
For marine activities
- Check sea conditions before sailing
- Avoid small boats during rough seas
- Follow maritime authority advisories
Key Information
🌦️Weather period: March 5–8, 2026
🌧️Main conditions expected:
- Scattered rainfall across several emirates
- Cloud development over northern and eastern regions
- Winds reaching up to 40km/h in gusts
- Blowing dust and reduced visibility in open areas
- Moderate to rough seas in the Arabian Gulf
- Slight to moderate waves in the Sea of Oman
- Possible water accumulation on roads during heavier showers
Residents should continue monitoring updates from the National Centre of Meteorology as weather conditions may evolve throughout the week.
