Heavy Rains Flood UAE, Disrupt Dubai Flights

Heavy rains battered the United Arab Emirates on December 19, 2025, flooding roads and disrupting flights across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other regions, as authorities urged residents to stay indoors amid the rare deluge in the desert nation.

The storm, which began late on December 18 with torrential downpours, thunder, lightning and hail, continued into Friday morning, turning usually arid streets into waist-deep waterways. In Dubai, vehicles struggled through submerged roads in areas like Al Barsha, while shopping malls such as the Mall of the Emirates reported interior flooding that staff quickly addressed. Neighboring Sharjah saw its main streets completely inundated, with residents wading barefoot or cycling through the water. The National Centre of Meteorology issued an orange alert for hazardous conditions in Dubai, Fujairah, parts of Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, warning of flash floods and strong winds up to 60 kilometers per hour that reduced visibility with blowing dust and sand.

Dubai Police advised residents to avoid nonessential travel until midday Friday, emphasizing caution around waterlogged areas and recommending they secure outdoor items like balcony furniture....