UAE Closes Parks and Beaches as Heavy Rain Worsens; Airports, Roads on Alert

  • 18/12/2025

Heavy rainfall across the UAE has prompted authorities to temporarily close all public parks and beaches in Dubai and Ajman as a safety precaution. The closures, effective on December 18 and 19, were announced by Dubai Municipality due to forecasts of further deteriorating weather. In Sharjah, heavy rain has continued, leading to traffic slowdowns and advisories from police urging drivers to maintain safe distances between vehicles amid reduced visibility.

Travel disruptions are also mounting, with Fly Dubai advising passengers to arrive at the airport at least four hours before their flights due to expected delays, waterlogging, and traffic congestion. The airline encouraged travelers to use online check-in and monitor flight updates regularly. Airports remain on high alert as adverse weather conditions could impact schedules and ground operations.

Many private sector employees left work early on Thursday to avoid flooded roads, leading to significant evening traffic jams in Dubai and Sharjah. Authorities have repeatedly warned the public to avoid beaches due to rough sea conditions and to stay away from valleys, hills, and low-lying areas prone to flash flooding during intense rain.

The UAE’s National Center of Meteorology continues to monitor the unstable weather, which is expected to persist into Friday. Emergency and response teams remain deployed across affected regions, and residents are urged to follow official alerts, avoid unnecessary travel, and adhere to safety guidelines until conditions improve.

Related News