The UAE has experienced scorching temperatures this week, with the mercury surpassing the 50°C mark. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) reported that the highest temperature recorded on Tuesday was 50.3°C in Um Azimul (Al Ain) at 2 pm.

Adding to the heatwave, popular Emirati photographer Rashid Aziz shared a video on Monday showing a sweltering 50.6°C on the National Meteorological Centre panel in Al Shawamekh, Abu Dhabi. The most intense summer period in the UAE typically starts from mid-July and extends through the end of August. During this time, temperatures can reach their peak, humidity levels may soar to 90 percent, and dust storms originating from the desert can occur.

Residents have been enduring the summer heat and humid conditions over the past few days, with temperatures hovering around the 49-50°C mark. On June 21, a temperature of 49.9°C was recorded in Mezaira (Al Dhafra region) at 3:15 pm, coinciding with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, lasting 14 hours.

As temperatures continue to rise, doctors have urged residents to take precautionary measures against heat stroke and heat exhaustion. It is advised to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, and limit outdoor activities during the mid-day hours.

To protect workers from the extreme heat, the UAE government has implemented the midday break rule, prohibiting work under direct sunlight and in open-air areas between 12:30 pm and 3:00 pm, from June 15 to September 15. Additionally, the government and private sectors have collaborated to set up over 6,000 rest stations for delivery workers. These stations are shaded and equipped with cooling devices and cold water.

In August last year, the UAE recorded its hottest day, with temperatures reaching 50.8°C in Owtaid (Al Dhafra Region) in Abu Dhabi at 2:45 pm.

The intense heat has not only affected the UAE but has also been a global concern. During Haj 2024, the death toll due to the heatwave exceeded 1,000, with temperatures rising as high as 51.8°C on June 17.

Different parts of the world are grappling with intense heatwaves, forcing schools to close and people to seek refuge in air-conditioned areas.

Stay safe and take the necessary precautions to beat the heat this summer.