UAE residents can finally look forward to some relief as the country’s peak summer period officially ended on August 10, marking the close of the scorching Al Mirzam season. According to Khaleej Times, the period — named after the rising of the Sirius star — typically brings the hottest desert winds, known in Arabic as samum.
This year’s heatwave reached a record high on August 1, when the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) recorded 51.8°C in Sweihan, Al Ain. While temperatures are now expected to drop, they will remain high in many areas. On Sunday, Gasyoura in the south is forecast to see a low of 29°C, but Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah will still register highs between 43°C and 44°C. Internal regions could hit 47°C on Sunday and up to 48°C later in the week.
The NCM has also predicted rainfall between August 10 and 12, which could help cool conditions temporarily. Showers have already provided moments of respite over the past week, with Fujairah, Al Ain, and other regions experiencing rain and even hail. Videos showed large hailstones carpeting the desert in Al Ain, while strong winds in the city caused trees to sway and made driving hazardous.
Despite the official end of the hottest stretch, experts warn that the intense heat remains a health risk. Doctors have reported an increase in heat-related emergencies and urge residents to avoid prolonged sun exposure and to maintain hydration with water and electrolytes.
With commutes becoming a daily endurance test, some employees are calling for remote or hybrid work arrangements until cooler days finally arrive.
