Dense Morning Fog Reduces Visibility to 100 Metres Across UAE, Delays Flights and Commutes

Thick fog blanketed large swathes of the United Arab Emirates in the early hours of 16 October, with the National Centre of Meteorology issuing a red alert for parts of Dubai, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah. Visibility at Dubai International Airport briefly plunged to 100 metres between 05:15 and 06:20, forcing incoming flights from Mumbai and Cairo into holding patterns and causing minor knock-on delays throughout the morning bank. On the ground, commuters encountered ghost-like conditions on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, where overhead gantries were visible only at the last second. Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority reduced the speed limit on several highways to 80 km/h, flashing the changes on variable-message signs. Despite precautionary measures, Dubai Police reported eight minor collisions before 08:00. Fog season typically peaks from late October to early December, but this year’s early appearance raises questions about climate-driven anomalies in temperature and humidity gradients. Aviation meteorologists at DXB told local media they are calibrating runway-visual-range sensors more frequently to maintain CAT III landing minima. Businesses with early-shift staff—particularly airport-based ground-handling companies—instituted temporary ride-sharing arrangements to ensure punctual crewing. Mobility managers are reminded to build in buffer time for morning transfers to catch the first wave of outbound flights, especially for executives with tight meeting schedules. The National Centre of Meteorology expects fog formation to recur overnight as humidity remains high. Travellers should monitor airline SMS alerts and consider web-check-in to reduce terminal dwell time.