Authorities across the UAE have issued a red alert following the formation of dense fog that significantly reduced visibility on major highways early this morning. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) reported widespread fog patches across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and parts of the Northern Emirates, prompting urgent warnings for motorists to exercise extreme caution.
The thick fog, visible in images captured shortly after sunrise, blanketed busy roads as vehicles crawled through near-zero visibility. Headlights and hazard lights flickered through the haze while traffic signals appeared faint, further complicating driving conditions. Police patrols were deployed across several key areas to manage traffic flow and assist drivers navigating dangerously low visibility.
In an advisory issued on social media, the NCM warned that visibility could drop to less than 200 metres, particularly in open and coastal areas. The red alert—issued during the early hours—signifies the highest level of weather caution, urging residents to limit travel unless absolutely necessary. Motorists were reminded to reduce speed, maintain safe distance, avoid sudden lane changes, and follow smart traffic signage that automatically reduces speed limits during adverse weather.
Abu Dhabi Police reiterated the importance of adhering to temporary speed limits displayed on electronic boards, which were lowered to 80 km/h on key routes including Sheikh Zayed Road, Sheikh Khalifa Highway, and several internal city roads. “Fog-related accidents can be severe due to the sudden loss of visibility. We urge drivers to stay alert and avoid using high beams, which can worsen glare,” the force stated.
The foggy conditions are typical of the transition period between autumn and winter in the UAE, where temperature differences between day and night cause moisture in the air to condense into low-lying cloud. Meteorologists expect similar conditions over the next few days, especially during the early morning hours, as humidity levels remain high.
Public transport services also issued precautionary guidelines. Taxis and buses in Dubai were instructed to slow down and increase intervals between fleet operations to ensure safety. Some school transport providers delayed morning routes until visibility improved, while parents were advised to monitor announcements from individual institutions.
By mid-morning, conditions had improved in several areas, but pockets of fog persisted inland and around the suburbs. The NCM said fog formation may occur again overnight, urging residents to remain prepared and stay updated through official channels.
Authorities stressed that while fog is a regular seasonal occurrence, responsible driving remains crucial in preventing accidents. Over the years, pile-ups on major highways during fog events have highlighted the importance of early warnings and strict adherence to safety rules.
As the UAE continues its shift toward cooler winter weather, residents are advised to allow extra travel time, plan routes carefully, and follow all weather-related alerts. With safety as the top priority, cooperation between the public and authorities remains essential in ensuring smooth and secure mobility during fog-heavy mornings.
