UAE heatwave hits record 51.8°C in Al Ain's Sweihan: Dust alerts sounded as hot winds sweep nation!

TL;DR:

• The temperature in the town of Sweihan, Al Ain , soared to 51.8 °C on August 1, 2025, making it the highest recorded temperature in the UAE this year.
  
  
• The National Centre of Meteorology issued a Yellow Dust Alert, warning of hot, dry "samum" winds often accompanied by reduced visibility.
  
  
• Residents are advised to stay indoors during peak hours, stay hydrated, and minimize exposure to the extreme conditions.
  
  
  

On August 1, 2025, the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) confirmed that temperatures peaked at 51.8 °C in Sweihan, a town in the Al Ain region of Abu Dhabi . The reading, registered at around 3 p.m., marks the highest temperature of the year and one of the hottest measured in recent UAE summers. A Yellow Alert for dust and heat has been issued, as residents face extreme weather conditions in the depths of the annual Al Mirzam (Waghrat al‑Qayz) heatwave.

Weather conditions & context

• Extreme heat

Experts say that Sweihan’s desert environment makes it highly prone to severe temperatures. Previous high readings in May 2025 had already topped 51.6 °C, but this new measurement confirms accelerating heat intensity. Temperatures of 50 °C+ were also recorded in other areas, including Al Dhafra (Owtaid), and Al Ain outskirts.

• Dust & wind conditions

The NCM warned of north-to-northwest dry winds reaching speeds of 25–40 km/h, typical of samum desert winds. These winds carry dust that can significantly reduce visibility and increase health risks. The alert remains active across the northeast UAE through evening hours.

• Fog & rain formation

In some coastal and southern regions, convective cloud development may lead to brief, localized rainfall overnight. Occasional dense fog and mist were observed early morning, especially near the Abu Dhabi coast.

What happens next: Weather forecast
Between August 1 and August 10, the Al Mirzam period is expected to maintain consistently harsh conditions. Temperatures are forecast to remain above 49 °C, with dust-laden winds and periods of haze in central and eastern regions. Nighttime lows across inland zones will stay in the mid‑30s, offering limited respite.

Health & safety recommendations

• Avoid outdoor exposure between 12pm and 4pm
  
  
• Stay hydrated and take frequent cooling breaks
  
  
• For essential travel, use sunglasses, sunscreen, and protective clothing
  
  
• Monitor for signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke among vulnerable individuals
  
  
• Drivers should beware of dust-reduced visibility and adjust speed in fog conditions
  
  
• Workplace adjustments are recommended for outdoor workers, including early shifts and cooling stations
  

Sweihan, a recurring hotspot, recorded 52.1 °C on July 15, 2002, a national record. Its geography, low elevation and desert surroundings continues to make it among the UAE’s hottest areas each summer.


The UAE’s recording of 51.8 °C in Sweihan confirms that the 2025 heatwave is historic in both intensity and duration. With dust alerts, stagnant night temperatures, and limited relief expected through early August, residents must prioritize safety through minimal exposure and active hydration. It’s a sobering reminder that extreme heat is not just numerical, it's a public health and environmental crisis unfolding in real time.

FAQ

• 1. Where was the temperature recorded?

Sweihan, located in the Al Ain region of Abu Dhabi, reached 51.8 °C at 3pm on August 1.

• 2. Is this the highest in the UAE this year?

Yes. This reading surpasses earlier peaks, including 51.6 °C recorded in May.

• 3. What is a samum?

Samum refers to hot, dry desert winds carrying dust that commonly occur during heatwaves in the region.

• 4. Can sudden rain occur during heatwaves?

Yes, localized convective showers may form, especially in southern and eastern UAE overnight.

• 5. How long will this extreme heat last?

Forecasts indicate the Al Mirzam heat cycle may persist until August 10, with little change in peak temperatures.