Heavy rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds swept across the Emirates on 20 December, triggering a wave of transport advisories. The National Centre of Meteorology placed much of the country under an orange alert, while Dubai Police and municipal teams scrambled to clear flooded roads.
Dubai Airports said most flights remained on schedule by Friday evening, but earlier in the day several arrivals were delayed as crews negotiated low-visibility approaches. Emirates cancelled at least thirteen regional services, and flydubai urged passengers to arrive four hours early to navigate potential road congestion.
![Stormy weather grounds UAE ferries and slows airport traffic as authorities activate contingency plans]()
Beyond the skies, the Roads and Transport Authority suspended the popular Dubai-Sharjah ferry service, warning commuters to seek alternative routes. Adventure tourism also took a hit: Visit Jebel Jais closed its zip-line and sky-tour attractions until conditions stabilise.
Corporate travel managers should note that the UAE’s infrastructure typically rebounds quickly thanks to extensive drainage systems and dedicated storm crews. Even so, last-mile trips from the airport can double in duration during such events—budget extra ground-transport time for relocating staff or VIP clients.
Looking ahead, meteorologists expect scattered showers through Monday; companies with field staff should circulate safety guidance on driving through standing water and monitor real-time NCM alerts.
Dubai Airports said most flights remained on schedule by Friday evening, but earlier in the day several arrivals were delayed as crews negotiated low-visibility approaches. Emirates cancelled at least thirteen regional services, and flydubai urged passengers to arrive four hours early to navigate potential road congestion.
Beyond the skies, the Roads and Transport Authority suspended the popular Dubai-Sharjah ferry service, warning commuters to seek alternative routes. Adventure tourism also took a hit: Visit Jebel Jais closed its zip-line and sky-tour attractions until conditions stabilise.
Corporate travel managers should note that the UAE’s infrastructure typically rebounds quickly thanks to extensive drainage systems and dedicated storm crews. Even so, last-mile trips from the airport can double in duration during such events—budget extra ground-transport time for relocating staff or VIP clients.
Looking ahead, meteorologists expect scattered showers through Monday; companies with field staff should circulate safety guidance on driving through standing water and monitor real-time NCM alerts.
Source: Gulf News live weather coverage
