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United Arab Emirates

Weather Overview

The UAE is warm and sunny in winter and hot and humid during the summer months. Winter daytime temperatures average a very pleasant 26°C, although nights can be relatively cool, between 12–15°C on the coast, and less than 5°C in the depths of the desert or high in the mountains. Local north-westerly winds (shamal) frequently develop during the winter, bringing cooler windy conditions. Summer temperatures are in the mid-40s, but can be higher inland. Humidity in coastal areas averages between 50 and 60 per cent, touching over 90 per cent in summer and autumn. Inland it is far less humid.

In most years it rains during the winter months, usually in February or March, but occasionally earlier. Winter rains take the form of short sharp bursts, which, if occurring in the Hajar Mountains, run off rapidly into wadis and onto the downwashed gravel plains.

Some years are totally dry and it is only through the regular formation of dew that vegetation and wildlife can survive.

Regions

All regions

General information

Official name
United Arab Emirates

Geographic Location
Middle East

Capital and largest city
Abu Dhabi
530,000 inhabitants

Largest cities
Abu Dhabi, Dubai

Area
82,880 sq km

Population
4.5 Million

Time Zone
GMT + 4

Currency
Emirati Dirham (AED)

Official language
Arabic

Neighbouring countries
Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman

Highest point
Jabal Yibir (1,727 m)

Lowest point
Persian Gulf (0 m)

Landing place
Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Ain

Electricity
230 volts, 50Hz

Ethnic groups
diverse expatriats 45%, Arabs 25%, Iranian 17%, other Asian & African 8%, other 5%

Religion
Muslim (96%), others (4%)