The UAE Embrace a Rare Cold Snap as Residents Share Reactions Online

Dubai and other parts of the United Arab Emirates have been experiencing an unusually cold spell this week, with temperatures dipping sharply and even nearing freezing in some areas. In the mountains of Ras Al Khaimah, early-morning readings dropped to around 0.9°C, a dramatic shift from the region’s typical desert warmth. The cooler weather has drawn attention not just from weather watchers but also from residents across social media, many of whom have shared humorous and relatable reactions to the chill.

On social platforms, people have joked about how cold it feels compared with Dubai’s usual climate. One Reddit user quipped that “it’s so cold I discovered that my car AC’s heater is broken,” while another said they were wearing a jersey even indoors “for the first time in 4 years” of living in the UAE. Sri Lankan expat Dammi shared that she’s layering up against the morning chill, and one resident noted it was the first time in years they had set their car’s climate control as high as 26 degrees just to stay warm. Others reflected on past winters, saying that years like 1999–2016 felt colder and windier, while one commenter playfully cautioned, “Don’t jinx this.”

Residents are bundling up in jackets and warm drinks, and the ongoing chilly conditions continue to be a hot topic online as people both celebrate and laugh about this rare UAE winter moment.