Look: Hail, Rain Hit RAK, Dubai During Cold Winter Spell

Residents across the UAE experienced a rare bout of wintry weather on Monday morning as rain and hail were reported in several areas, following an unusually cold spell affecting the country.

In Ras Al Khaimah, residents were treated to a striking and uncommon sight as hailstones fell across parts of the emirate. Videos circulating on social media showed hail falling steadily, drawing people outdoors to witness the weather phenomenon. In one clip, groups of men could be seen laughing and playfully tossing hail at one another, clearly delighted by the unexpected weather.

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) had earlier forecast light rainfall around January 25, and precipitation was subsequently recorded in different parts of the country. Monday's hail and rain followed cooler-than-usual temperatures that have marked this winter season across the UAE.

.

While rainfall is not uncommon during the winter months, hail remains a relatively rare occurrence in the countr, particularly in coastal and low-lying areas. Mountainous regions such as Ras Al Khaimah are more likely to experience such conditions due to convective cloud activity and lower temperatures at higher elevations.

At dawn, residents of Al Rams and areas north of Ras Al Khaimah shared videos capturing hail pouring down as seen from car windows. The scene was marked by small hailstones falling rapidly and striking the ground with a sharp, rattling sound that echoed through the area.

For many residents, the brief hailstorm offered a moment of welcome surprise, breaking from the region's typically mild winter weather.

Meanwhile, Dubai experienced rainfall, overcast skies, and cool winds. A video shared on Instagram by StormCentre shows rain pouring onto the car, with water streaming across the windshield as vehicles moved through the rain-soaked roads.

The lowest temperature recorded over the country this morning is 4.7°C in Jais Mountain (Ras Al Khaimah) at 6.30. The drop in the temperatures added to the chill, giving the city a distinctly wintery feel.

Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious during periods of unstable weather, particularly when driving, as wet roads and reduced visibility can pose hazards. The NCM continues to monitor conditions and provide updates as needed.

After Sunday, temperatures can fluctuate with occasional cold spells and moderate warm periods through the winter season, Dr Mohamed Al Ebri, Director of Meteorology at NCM, told Khaleej Times in an earlier interview.

Dr Al Ebri also explained that the current cold spell affecting the UAE is not an isolated local event, but part of broader global climate dynamics. Central to this is the La Niña phenomenon - a climate pattern driven by cooler-than-normal sea surface temperatures in parts of the Pacific Ocean, which impacts weather patterns around the world.

MENAFN26012026000049011007ID1110649621