UAE Records First 50°C of the Year as Peak Summer Nears Its End

ABU DHABI — The UAE recorded its first 50°C temperature of the year on Saturday, a milestone in an already blistering season, even as forecasters signalled that the fiercest stretch of summer is beginning to wind down.

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) logged the country's high of 50°C in Al Shawamekh, Abu Dhabi, at 2:30pm — the first time the mercury has touched the 50°C mark this summer. The centre confirmed the reading in an update, putting the day's top temperature at exactly 50.0°C in Al Shawamekh at 14:30 local time.

The country had been inching toward the threshold for days. On Friday, July 31, the NCM recorded a national high of 49.6°C in Sweihan, Al Ain, at 1:45pm. Over the preceding week, official data showed several inland areas repeatedly climbing above 48°C and peaking at 49.8°C, underlining how intense conditions had become during the height of the UAE summer.

The 50°C reading arrives just as the season's most punishing phase approaches its close. The high point comes as peak summer draws to an end, with “Jamrat Al Qayth” — the peak of the summer heat — set to last until August 10. During this period, daytime temperatures in coastal areas typically range between 41°C and 43°C, while inland and desert regions often exceed 45°C.

Some relief may be on the way. The NCM is forecasting scattered rainfall from August 3. Conditions were expected to be fair to partly cloudy at times, with clouds developing over eastern areas during the afternoon and light to moderate winds freshening to 35km/h.

Health authorities have urged caution during the extreme heat. The Ministry of Health and Prevention advised vulnerable groups — including older adults, children, and people with chronic conditions — to stay well hydrated, limit prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and seek air-conditioned environments.