Will recent cloud seeding operations result in more rain this weekend in the UAE?

Dubai: Following an active period of cloud-seeding missions by the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), the UAE is bracing for another weekend with a chance of rain, despite soaring temperatures.

The NCM's forecast for this weekend indicates a continuation of hot and dusty conditions, with highs around 46°C on Saturday and 45°C on Sunday. However, there is a probability of light rain, particularly in the eastern and southern regions, as partly cloudy skies are expected to form. Winds will be light to moderate, but freshening at times and causing blowing dust and sand.

AccuWeather's forecast for Dubai also reflects a hot weekend, with high temperatures reaching up to 46°C on Friday. While AccuWeather doesn't explicitly forecast rain for the weekend, its forecast for the UAE notes the presence of high humidity and blowing dust, which can reduce visibility.

The NCM has been actively engaged in cloud-seeding flights this year, with 172 missions conducted so far in 2025 as part of the program to enhance rainfall. The forecast for this weekend suggests that these efforts, combined with natural weather patterns, may bring some light showers to parts of the country, offering a slight respite from the intense heat.

Friday: Fair to partly cloudy and dusty, with a chance of convective clouds and a possible increase in temperatures.

Saturday: Dusty and partly cloudy to cloudy, with a probability of light rain, especially in the eastern and southern areas.

Sunday: Partly cloudy to cloudy, particularly in the eastern and southern regions, with a probability of light rain.