As the summer season officially began on Friday, June 21, the UAE has seen record-breaking temperatures, reaching an unprecedented 50.8°C on Tuesday, July 9. This marked the hottest week of the year so far, with various parts of the country also recording temperatures exceeding 50°C.
During the initial half of summer, which concluded around mid-July, the weather remained relatively dry, accompanied by active winds from the south, known as the shamal. These winds, originating from the desert regions, often brought dusty conditions.
However, the UAE has now transitioned into the second half of summer, characterized by increased humidity. Dr. Ahmed Habib, a spokesperson from the National Centre of Meteorology, said in aTime Out Dubai article that recent humidity levels have ranged between 80 percent and 95 percent, contributing to the challenging weather conditions.
“The shift in wind direction from the dry south to the humid Arabian Gulf in the north has caused a sudden spike in humidity,” Dr. Habib explained.
This weekend, from Saturday, July 20, to Sunday, July 21, Dubai is expected to experience daytime temperatures of up to 45°C, with humidity levels fluctuating between 35 percent and 80 percent. For many, staying cool in the midday sun seems almost impossible without the relief of a pool.