If you were stuck indoors this past weekend watching the rain lash against your balcony, there is finally some good news. The “stay-at-home” vibes are officially over. As of Saturday, December 20, Dubai and Abu Dhabi Public Beaches & Parks Reopen to the public, signaling a return to the outdoor lifestyle we all live for during the winter months.
It wasn’t just a bit of drizzle, either. The UAE recently navigated a fairly intense low-pressure system that brought everything from high-speed winds to torrential downpours. For a couple of days, our favorite weekend spots—from the jogging tracks at Al Mamzar to the picnic greens in Abu Dhabi—were off-limits for safety. But with the clouds clearing and the sun making a much-anticipated comeback, the authorities have given the “all clear.”
The Official Word: Back to Normal Schedules
The announcement came through official channels on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning. The Abu Dhabi Media Office and the Abu Dhabi City Municipality confirmed that parks and beaches across the capital are once again welcoming visitors. These spots had been shut down on December 18 as a precaution against the “city-wide deluge” that saw some areas waterlogged.
Over in Dubai, the story was much the same. The Dubai Municipality issued a notice stating that all public parks, open-air markets, and beaches have returned to their regular operational hours. Whether you were planning a trip to the Ripe Market or just wanted a sunset stroll by the Burj Al Arab, the gates are open.
However, don’t throw total caution to the wind just yet. Even as Dubai and Abu Dhabi Public Beaches & Parks Reopen, the authorities are urging everyone to stay sensible. The ground might still be a bit slippery in some parks, and the sea can be a little rough immediately after a storm. It’s all about enjoying the weather while keeping an eye on the safety signs.
How Much Rain Did We Actually Get?
To say it rained “a lot” is a bit of an understatement for December. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) reported some pretty significant numbers. Saqr Port saw the highest rainfall at a whopping 98 millimetres, while Al Ghazlah wasn’t far behind with 94 millimetres.
Even the mountainous areas took a beating, with Jebel Jais recording over 92 millimetres of rain. This level of rainfall is what led to the proactive decision to close public spaces. By clearing the streets and keeping people away from potentially dangerous coastal areas, the UAE managed to keep incidents to a minimum during the peak of the storm.
A Record-Breaking Winter Chill
While the rain was the main headline, the temperature drop was the real shocker. If you felt like you needed to dig out your heaviest hoodie, you weren’t alone. This morning, the UAE recorded its lowest temperature of the season so far: a shivering 3.5°C at Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah.
Even down in the cities, the mercury has dipped significantly. We are officially in the heart of the UAE winter. This is that sweet spot where the air is crisp, the humidity is gone, and the parks are actually the best place to be. With the parks now open, it’s the perfect time to enjoy that “winter in Dubai” feeling that only lasts for a few precious months.
What to Expect for the Rest of the Week?
So, is the rain gone for good? Mostly, but not entirely. The latest weather bulletins suggest that while the “main wave” has passed, we might still see some scattered clouds and light rain on December 21 and 22, particularly in coastal and northern areas.
The wind is also expected to stay moderate to fresh, which might kick up a bit of dust here and there. If you’re planning a desert drive or a long road trip to Hatta, just keep an eye on the horizon. The visibility can drop quickly if the wind picks up.
Making the Most of the Reopening
For many of us, the closure of parks and beaches feels like a total pause on our social lives. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, these spaces aren’t just “amenities”—they are where we exercise, where our kids play, and where we host those legendary weekend BBQs.
Now that Dubai and Abu Dhabi Public Beaches & Parks Reopen, here are a few things to keep in mind for your visit:
- Check the Apps: Before heading to a specific beach, check the Dubai Municipality or Abu Dhabi City Municipality social media pages for any localized updates.
- Road Safety: Even if the sun is out, some internal roads might still have minor puddles. Take it easy on the turns.
- Dress for the Chill: With temperatures hovering in the low 20s during the day and dipping further at night, that 3.5°C record at Jebel Jais is a reminder that winter is truly here.
It is great to see the cities buzzing again. The RTA has confirmed that traffic flow is back to normal on major routes like Sheikh Zayed Road and E11, and the drainage teams have done a stellar job clearing the standing water.
Read More: Eid Al Etihad: Dubai Beaches Open Exclusively for Families & Winter Rain in Dubai
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