Residents across the United Arab Emirates have experienced repeated mornings of dense fog this week, with visibility in some areas dropping to near zero and prompting traffic warnings and delays.
Meteorologists say the phenomenon is seasonal and common during the late winter transition period. The fog forms due to a combination of cool overnight temperatures and high humidity from the Arabian Gulf. During the day, warm air carries moisture inland, and when night falls, the desert surface cools rapidly. This cooling causes the moisture to condense close to the ground, creating thick radiation fog.
Calm wind conditions have intensified the situation. Without strong air movement to disperse the moisture, the fog remains concentrated near roads and low-lying areas, particularly before sunrise and during early morning hours. Authorities have issued safety advisories urging motorists to drive carefully, reduce speed, and use fog lights.
Experts note that while the UAE is known for its arid climate, coastal humidity makes winter fog a recurring feature, especially between January and February. The pattern can repeat for several consecutive days during seasonal transitions.
Forecasters expect the foggy conditions to gradually ease as temperatures rise and winds strengthen heading into early March. Warmer mornings will reduce condensation near the ground, improving visibility across the country.
Until then, officials advise residents to monitor weather alerts, allow extra travel time, and avoid sudden braking on highways during low-visibility periods.
Despite disruptions, the weather event is considered normal for this time of year and does not indicate severe storms or unusual climate activity.
