UAE records scorching 50.4°C in Abu Dhabi: How to stay safe in extreme heat

Blistering heat is here—protect yourself with these quick tips

Last updated: May 23, 2025 | 17:56

Manuel Almario, Senior News Editor

2 MIN READ

Searing heat hits UAE: Mercury soars to 50.4°C in Al Shawamekh, Abu Dhabi

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Dubai: The UAE just turned up the heat — literally. The temperature today scorched its way to a sweltering 50.4°C, recorded in Al Shawamekh, Abu Dhabi, marking one of the hottest days of the year so far. While the calendar still says May, the weather is clearly running ahead of schedule.

Across the country, residents are experiencing a classic early-summer pattern: fair skies, scattered clouds in the east, and building humidity, especially along coastal stretches. Winds are staying mild — light to moderate — but they offer little relief under the blazing sun.

As we move into Saturday, 24 May, expect more of the same:

Clear to partly cloudy skies
Winds shifting from southeasterly to northwesterly, reaching speeds up to 30 km/h
Slight seas in both the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea

But the big story remains the heat. With highs crossing 50°C, health and safety take center stage.

How to beat the UAE heat: Survival tips for the scorching season

As the desert sun dominates, here's how to keep your cool:

Hydration is non-negotiable: Water, coconut water, electrolyte-rich drinks—whatever keeps you refreshed and replenished.
Sun smart: SPF 30+ sunscreen, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats are your best friends.
Dress for success: Light, breathable fabrics in loose cuts help your body manage the heat.
Time your movement: If you can, avoid outdoor activity from 12pm to 4pm.
Car Safety Warning: Never leave children, pets, or anyone vulnerable in a parked vehicle—interior temperatures can become dangerously high within minutes, even with the windows slightly open.

The bottom line? Summer has arrived early — and fiercely. Stay smart, stay safe, and stay hydrated.

Also Read: Summer in UAE: How to avoid heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke

Manuel AlmarioSenior News Editor

Manuel has been with Gulf News for 24 years, currently serving as a Senior News Editor and a vital member of the team. From managing social media platforms and crafting viral content to shooting and editing videos on various topics such as weather, gold prices, and traffic updates, Manuel ensures news is not just timely but engaging. He also moderates reader comments and keeps the digital space respectful and impactful. Formerly the Community Editor for the Readers section, Manuel helped residents resolve issues with banks, telecom providers, utilities, and government agencies—giving people a voice and driving accountability. “I’m proud that, with the cooperation of companies, I was able to help people get the answers they needed,” he says. Beyond the newsroom, Manuel is driven by a passion for human interest stories—amplifying voices that often go unheard. “From rags-to-riches journeys to the quiet resilience of people with special needs, I believe these stories restore hope in humanity,” he added. “In every story I tell,” Manuel says, “my goal is simple: to inspire hearts, inform minds, and make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether it’s a viral video, a quiet act of resilience, or a voice that needs to be heard, I believe every story has the power to connect us—and sometimes, even change us.” Manuel’s impact goes far beyond the newsroom—he’s been honored as one of the 300 most influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition 2020 by Illustrado. His dedication to telling powerful stories, along with his influence in community, culture, and human interest, has earned him a well-deserved place on this prestigious list.