The United Arab Emirates experienced its lowest-ever recorded temperature of –5.7°C at Jebel Jais, the country’s highest mountain peak, marking a rare and remarkable moment in the nation’s climatic history.
The record low temperature was registered at Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah, which rises to nearly 1,934 metres above sea level. Known for its cooler climate compared to the rest of the country, the mountain region occasionally experiences frost during winter months, but the –5.7°C reading remains the coldest temperature officially documented in the UAE.
Meteorological experts attribute such extreme cold conditions to a combination of high altitude, clear skies, low humidity, and cold air masses moving across the region during winter. These factors can cause temperatures at elevated areas like Jebel Jais to drop sharply, especially during the early morning hours.
The record drew widespread attention, highlighting the diverse weather patterns found across the UAE, a country more commonly associated with desert heat and high summer temperatures. While coastal and low-lying areas typically enjoy mild winters, mountainous regions in the north can experience significantly colder conditions, including fog, frost, and occasional light snowfall-like ice formations.
Authorities have consistently advised visitors to Jebel Jais during winter to take precautions, including wearing warm clothing and driving carefully, as icy patches can form on roads during extremely cold conditions.
The –5.7°C milestone continues to serve as a reminder of the UAE’s varied geography and climate, showcasing how the country’s mountainous landscapes can produce weather extremes rarely associated with the region.
