Red-Alert Fog and Cool Snap Disrupts Travel and Commutes Across UAE

A rare winter weather pattern brought dense fog and cooler temperatures to Dubai and the broader UAE on January 18, prompting red-alert warnings from the National Centre of Meteorology and disrupting early-morning travel. Visibility dropped below 200 metres on major roadways, leading authorities to reduce speed limits and activate low-visibility procedures at Dubai International and Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International airports. While no widespread flight diversions were reported, airlines warned of potential delays and advised passengers to allow extra time, especially during peak morning operations. Road traffic also experienced slowdowns, underscoring the need for both residents and visitors to plan ahead during weather events that, although not unprecedented, can have outsized effects on mobility in the UAE.