Flights cancelled, UAE on caution as heavy rain, thunderstorm lash several cities

On Thursday, heavy rains and thunderstorms struck the UAE, prompting the cancellation of numerous international flights, just two weeks after Dubai was severely affected by unprecedented storms that disrupted the emirate for several days.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) heightened the readiness and preparedness levels of the national system on Wednesday to cope with the situation.

Although these rains are expected to be less severe than the record downpour experienced last month, the public is advised to take precautions.

Dubai-based Emirates airline announced flight cancellations on Thursday due to adverse weather conditions affecting movements at Dubai International Airport (DXB).

The following flights have been cancelled on May 2: EK 123/124 (Dubai-Istanbul), EK 763/764 (Dubai-Johannesburg), EK 719/720 (Dubai-Nairobi), EK 921/922 (Dubai-Cairo), EK 903/904 (Dubai-Amman), and EK 352/353 (Dubai-Singapore with EK353 departing on May 3 at 12:30 am UAE time). Emirates has waived rebooking charges to assist stranded passengers.

“Based on the expected weather conditions, the Ministry of Interior, in coordination with NCEMA, recommended activating remote learning on Thursday and Friday for all educational institutions, with decisions to be made by federal-level competent authorities and local emergency management teams, in coordination with the Ministry of Education and the Emirates Schools Establishment,” the statement said on Wednesday.

As heavy winds and light rains affected major UAE cities, residents were advised to use remote work systems on Thursday and Friday for all government and private sectors, except for vital jobs requiring workplace presence and those involved in response and recovery efforts. Roads leading to flood-prone areas and dams were closed, and the public was urged to avoid mountainous, desert, and coastal areas.

“Residents are urged to stay away from these areas, adhere to safety standards and guidelines, and avoid mountainous, desert, and coastal areas,” the statement added.

Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways reported the diversion of its flight (EY197) from Mumbai to Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) to Al-Ain due to adverse weather conditions in Abu Dhabi.

In Dubai, the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) suspended the acceptance of requests for entry and departure of wooden dhows and advised sailors to avoid sailing during this time.

Dubai Metro extended its operating hours until 5 am the next day but reduced the number of stops for these trains.

“Heavy thunderstorms are forecast in Dubai on May 2. If you’re travelling to Dubai International Airport, you may experience road delays. We recommend adding extra travel time to reach the airport and using Dubai Metro where possible,” said an Emirates airline spokesperson.

Authorities in UAE have been advised against sailing, entering valley areas, and driving in torrential rains and low-lying places, with instructions to exercise caution and follow directives from competent authorities.