Dubai warriors! Winter is coming. Be well prepared!
We all know Dubai because of its heat. In summer it is nearly impossible to stay outdoors during heat hours. Winters are well liked because it is perfect weather for some outdoor adventures. This winter is going to be very cold because Dur Al Sittin is here.
According to weather experts, the UAE has entered Dur Al Sittin. It is a seasonal phase and the coldest time of the year. Dubai is already experiencing winter. But that’s merely a trailer. The show is going to begin soon.
Meteorologists warn that the coldest days and nights are expected between January 10 and January 22. This weather is going to be extreme at night. Especially after sunset or just before sunrise.
This sudden shift can be surprising. If you are a local then you must be familiar with this climate pattern. Dur Al Sittin is a well-known marker on the winter calendar.
About Dur Al Sittin
Dur Al Sittin is a seasonal phase. It has long been used to describe the peak of winter cold across the Arabian Peninsula. This phase means there will be
- lowest nighttime temperatures of the year.
- Increased chill after sunset
- Clearer skies paired with colder air masses
- A noticeable contrast between daytime warmth and nighttime cold
This is when people start wearing more clothing layers. The air starts to feel sharp.
Why Is January Colder Than Expected in Dubai?
Dubai weather is not about snow or frost. Even when Dubai weather is cold in winters, the temperature can still feel pleasant under sunlight. But when the sun sets, you see a sudden shift in weather. The temperature falls quickly, and suddenly it’s cold.
During cold
- You will feel Dubai evenings are harsher than expected.
- Even early mornings will feel colder.
- You have to wear proper clothing before going outside.
- Winds can be chilly.
This winter effect will be amplified between 10 and 22 January. So this will be the most chilly period of the year.
Nighttime Temperature Drops
The most noticeable cold during this period will occur at night. Normal people don’t understand that during this time the weather will drop massively and suddenly. Usually the days don’t feel that cold so people can misjudge the shift.
If you live in Dubai, you will notice a very cold air setting in low-lying areas. Near beaches and open roads there will be a chilly wind breeze. If your home is not designed for window heating, this time is going to be tough for you.
If you live in a desert-adjacent community or an area with less urban density, the weather will be severe for you.
This is Just the Beginning!
Recently locals have seen how the weather shifts during the evening. This is just the beginning. The peak is going to come in mid-January. During this time the weather will feel cold during the day too.
Dur Al Sittin is not about dramatic extremes. It is a persistent and penetrating cold. A chill that makes you shiver.
Be careful!
This weather is a massive shift from traditional Dubai weather. So residents need to make noticeable changes in clothing and lifestyle.
During this season you should wear your hoodies and sweaters. Don’t go outside during cold hours. If you go to the gym, shift your sessions indoors. Outdoor reservations must be booked in early hours to avoid cold.
Home Adjustments
The Dubai home system is built to fight heat in summer. So there can be problems with insulation during winter. Seal windows and doors and use portable heaters. Add extra budding layers to avoid cold penetrating through any medium. Winter can be tough in Dubai because Dubai homes are not built to fight intense cold.
Outdoor Activities and Events
Winter is the ideal season for outdoor activities in the UAE. But during January you require proper planning. Deserts can be very cold at night. Beach outings require proper wind protection. And if you are going on camping trips, make sure you have proper thermal preparation.
If you are visiting Dubai this January, pack accordingly. For residents it may be a normal season. For tourists, it can be totally surprising.
Is This Cold Stronger Than Usual?
Well, many locals are reporting that these winters are colder than before. This is a social media phenomenon but also a lifestyle shift.
People spend so much time indoors that their cold tolerance has reduced. Mostly indoors are very well temperature controlled. This reduces natural adaptation. Also urban heat islands create sharp contrast. So a normal temperature drop can also feel very dramatic.
What to Expect Through Late January?
During mid-January you will experience the Dur Al Sittin phase. When it passes, you will see the temperature will slowly start to stabilize. The evening will be cool, but the temperature will not be as sharp as now.
By the end of January the nights will become less severe. Days will feel more stable. But still you can’t be very casual about it because sudden cold snaps can occur.
A Seasonal Reminder for Dubai Residents
Dubai winters don’t last long. But they do have a very powerful impression on residents. Dur Al Sittin is a reminder that the UAE’s climate is more diverse than its global image.
Dubai is a city where lifestyle depends on seasons. It can also affect tourism. Don’t worry too much. This seasonal phase will pass soon. Just be well prepared and maintain proper clothing.
