Summer won't let go: Why is the UAE still so hot and humid?

As October draws to a close, summer still seems reluctant to leave the UAE. Although autumn has arrived on the calendar, residents continue to experience warm afternoons, humid evenings and uncomfortable outdoor conditions.

The delayed arrival of cooler weather has left many wondering why temperatures remain high despite the seasonal transition.

The explanation lies in the UAE's desert climate, the lingering warmth of the Arabian Gulf and the gradual transition from summer to winter, which rarely happens overnight.

High Humidity Makes the Weather Feel Warmer

Even as daytime temperatures begin to decline, humidity can make the weather feel significantly warmer than the thermometer suggests. This is particularly noticeable in coastal cities such as Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.

The Arabian Gulf plays a major role in extending the discomfort. After months of intense sunshine, its waters retain heat well into autumn, releasing moisture into the atmosphere.

When humid sea breezes move inland, they can make coastal areas feel particularly muggy, even after sunset.

Research published in the scientific journal Communications Earth & Environment found that humid heat along the southern Arabian Gulf coast can be especially intense during the evening and at night, when moisture-laden sea breezes affect coastal communities.

UAE Temperatures Remain Above October Averages

Another factor contributing to the lingering heat this year is that temperatures have been higher than usual for October.

Recent maximum temperatures across the UAE have ranged between 37°C and 43°C, with some areas recording temperatures around 4°C above normal, according to recent weather reports.

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) places the country's average October temperature at 29.7°C.

These above-average readings have added to the feeling that summer is lasting longer than expected.

How Could El Niño Affect UAE Weather This Winter?

The developing El Niño climate phenomenon has also drawn attention as meteorologists assess the months ahead.

The NCM expects El Niño to influence weather patterns during the coming winter, potentially contributing to near- or above-average temperatures and rainfall.

However, climate specialists caution against attributing the UAE's current heat to El Niño alone. Its direct influence on Gulf temperatures is relatively weak, while broader climate warming, regional atmospheric circulation and sea temperatures in the Arabian Gulf and Arabian Sea also play important roles.

When Will the UAE Finally Feel Like Winter?

Residents may need to wait a little longer for a noticeable change in weather conditions.

According to the NCM's forecast for Thursday, October 29, temperatures could reach 39°C in inland areas and 37°C in coastal locations. Humidity could rise to 90 per cent in some coastal areas.

The forecast also indicates the possibility of rainfall in northern and eastern parts of the country, with showers potentially continuing in eastern regions until Monday, November 2.

Meanwhile, humid nights and early mornings could create conditions favourable for mist or fog.

Cooler Evenings Expected During November

The gradual seasonal cooling is expected to become more noticeable during November, particularly in the evenings and early mornings.

However, warm afternoons may continue even as overnight temperatures begin to fall. Humidity could also remain a concern in coastal areas, meaning residents may not experience an immediate end to the uncomfortable conditions.

For now, the UAE's transition to winter is expected to be gradual, with more comfortable weather likely to develop as November progresses.