Few subjects generate as much excitement here as the weather, especially when clouds and rain interrupt the sunshine. So it’s hardly surprising that this weekend’s cold snap, which was accompanied by strong winds and rain in some parts of the country, created something of a stir. Temperatures even dropped below zero on Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest mountain, where 10 centimetres of snow settled.
Such weather conditions have downsides too, as high winds caused disruption on the roads. Gusts of up to 75 kph caused a construction crane to collapse onto a hotel on the Sheikh Zayed Road. The organisers of the Dubai Tour, Omega Dubai Desert Classic golf tournament, as well as RedFestDXB music festival, were prudent enough to suspend their events on Friday.
The unsettled weather is likely to continue in Abu Dhabi, at least, for the next few days. Our advice is to enjoy the different weather conditions, but above all to stay safe. High winds and low temperatures make a refreshing change, but they may also bring hazards.