UAE autumn weather officially began on September 23, 2026, bringing a gradual seasonal shift towards cooler temperatures, longer nights and increased chances of rain later in the season.
DUBAI: UAE autumn weather officially arrived on September 23, marking the astronomical end of summer and beginning a gradual transition towards cooler days, longer nights and changing weather conditions across the country.
The autumnal equinox occurred at around 4.05am UAE time, when the sun crossed the equator on its southward movement. The astronomical event marks the start of autumn in the Northern Hemisphere, although residents should not expect summer temperatures to disappear immediately.
When will temperatures start falling in the UAE?
The seasonal transition will happen gradually. Average daytime highs are expected to be around 39°C at the beginning of autumn before declining as the season progresses, according to Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Society.
By around early November, average highs are expected to be about 31°C, with lows near 18°C. Towards the winter solstice in December, daytime temperatures could be around 25°C with overnight lows near 13°C.
For now, however, hot conditions remain. The National Centre of Meteorology forecast internal temperatures reaching between 43°C and 45°C on September 23, while coastal and island areas could reach between 37°C and 42°C.
UAE autumn weather brings longer nights
The equinox represents the point when day and night are closest to equal length. After the seasonal transition, nights gradually become longer as the UAE moves towards winter.
Humidity is also expected to remain significant during the first half of autumn, particularly overnight and during the early morning. This can increase the possibility of fog and mist across coastal and internal areas.
The NCM issued red and yellow fog alerts on September 23, with reduced visibility reported across some coastal and internal areas.
When could rain increase across the UAE?
Residents waiting for autumn rain may need to wait longer. Winter cloud patterns are expected to begin developing around mid-October, with the chance of rainfall increasing during the second half of autumn, according to Al Jarwan.
The immediate NCM outlook does not indicate widespread organised rainfall. Some convective clouds could develop over eastern and southern areas, but the broader short-term forecast remains predominantly fair to partly cloudy.
Cooler UAE days will arrive gradually
UAE autumn weather therefore signals the beginning of a seasonal change rather than an immediate end to high temperatures.
September remains warm, but increasingly longer nights and changing atmospheric conditions will gradually reduce temperatures. The more noticeable transition towards comfortable outdoor weather is expected through October and November.
Impact to expect
Residents can expect a gradual improvement in outdoor conditions rather than an immediate temperature drop. Cooler evenings should become increasingly noticeable through autumn, while fog and changing humidity could affect early-morning road visibility.
