Large parts of UAE hit by fog as weather alerts are issued

Speeds reduced on some Abu Dhabi roads due to low visibility

The UAE was hit by another bout of fog on Thursday morning. Victor Besa / The National

A series of weather alerts were issued and speed limits were slashed on Abu Dhabi roads after thick fog blanketed much of the country on Thursday morning.

The National Centre of Meteorology said fog would shroud large sections of the Emirates until 9.30am.

It issued an alert over the challenging conditions on Wednesday evening before posting updates on social media at about 5am and 6am.

The notice warned visibility would be reduced to less than 1,000 metres in many cases and fog formations would remain in place until 9.30am.

A partly cloudy but fair day is then expected, with temperatures set to hit 30°C in some areas of Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.

The NCM recorded foggy conditions extending beyond 7am over Sharjah International Airport and scattered areas of Al Dhafra

Abu Dhabi Police reduced speed limits to 80kmph on a number of routes, including Maktoum bin Rashid Road from Abu Dhabi to Dubai and the Al Ain-Dubai Road.

It comes as foggy conditions have repeatedly rolled in across the UAE over the past few weeks, leading to treacherous conditions on its roads.

Experts advise motorists to switch on their fog lights, switch off hazard lights, drive at a reasonable speed and to be disciplined when moving between lanes.

The NCM forecast further fog over some coastal areas on Friday, but clearer conditions are expected over the weekend.

Fog in the UAE - in pictures

Early morning fog causes low visibility in Dubai on January 13, 2022. Antonie Robertson / The National

The sun rises between the city's skyscrapers. Antonie Robertson / The National

Motorists cautiously begin their commute. Antonie Robertson / The National

As the fog clears a few clouds can be seen in the sky. Antonie Robertson / The National

A jogger enjoys the cooler temperatures. Antonie Robertson / The National

Fog covers the city's iconic buildings. Antonie Robertson / The National

Motorists make their way to work in the fog. Antonie Robertson / The National

It was also a hazy morning along the Al Gurm Corniche in Abu Dhabi. Khushnum Bhandari / The National

Gate Tower on Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi, is pictured among the haze. Khushnum Bhandari / The National

The capital's Pineapple building stands tall as day breaks. Khushnum Bhandari / The National

Abu Dhabi's skyline is just visible in the distance. Khushnum Bhandari / The National