Dubai: October signals the second transitional phase between summer and winter in the UAE, bringing a welcome shift in weather. According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), the month is marked by rapid changes, most notably a noticeable fall in temperatures from mid-October onwards.
Temperature Shift
The average maximum temperature in October ranges between 35°C and 36.8°C, while the overall mean hovers between 28.7°C and 30.8°C. Nights and early mornings bring the most relief, with minimum temperatures averaging between 22.7°C and 26.2°C. For perspective, the UAE once recorded an October high of 46.3°C in Mezaira (2017) and a low of 6.4°C in Raknah (2020).
Eastern regions like Fujairah and Al Ain are usually the first to experience cooler conditions due to their proximity to the Hajar Mountains. These areas also see increased chances of cloud formation and occasional rain.
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Humidity, Fog, and Rain
Humidity levels rise during the season change, often peaking between 65% and 85% in the early mornings. This leads to frequent fog and mist, reducing visibility for motorists. The mean relative humidity for October is around 51%.
Wind patterns also shift this month, with southeasterly breezes at night and in the morning giving way to northwesterly winds in the afternoon and evening. While the average wind speed is about 10.3 km/h, October once recorded a high of 117.4 km/h in Qarneen (2012).
October also brings chances of rainfall. Convective clouds, particularly over the eastern parts of the UAE, may occasionally result in showers. The heaviest October rainfall on record is 139 mm, observed in Al Shiweb in 2016.
