NCM says expect a gradual dip in temperatures and more comfortable evenings later this month, with autumn officially starting on September 23
September in the UAE signals the final stretch of summer, and according to the National Center of Meteorology (NCM), cooler nights are on the horizon as the month moves forward. Autumn officially kicks off on September 23, when the sun crosses the equator — marking the start of a gradual (and much-welcomed) break from the intense summer heat.
What the weather pattern looks like this month        Â
As September rolls on, the influence of the seasonal Indian monsoon low starts to fade, but the UAE can still feel the lingering effects of thermal lows from central Arabia. In real terms, that means occasional bursts of active winds, which can kick up dust and reduce visibility—especially in open, desert areas.
On a typical day, winds shift direction: they’re usually southeasterly late at night and early morning, then switch to northwesterly by afternoon and evening, driven by the natural push and pull of land–sea breezes.
Temperature-wise, September in the UAE sees average temps ranging between 32.3°C and 34.2°C, with typical daytime highs of 38.5°C to 40.6°C and lows between 26.8°C and 29.3°C.
For some context:
- Hottest September day on record: a scorching 51.1°C in Mukhairez (2016)
- Coldest September low: a cool 16.5°C at Jebel Jais (2015)
As for winds, the average speed hovers around 11 km/h, but the region has seen its share of extremes:
- 92.2 km/h gusts in Al Saa (2023)
- A powerful 109.3 km/h gust at Al Ain Airport (2008)
So while the heat holds on a little longer, cooler nights and shifting winds are early signs that the seasons are starting to turn.
Fog, humidity and the chance of showers
Humidity levels are expected to climb in September compared to August, averaging around 49%, which means more frequent fog or light fog, especially in the second half of the month. Early-morning drivers should be ready for slower commutes on days with reduced visibility.
At the same time, conditions remain favourable for convective cloud formation, particularly over eastern areas, with the potential for rainfall that may occasionally drift inland. So if you’re planning a mountain hike or a road trip out east, it’s a good idea to check the forecast before heading out.
What it means for your plans
As the month rolls on, late evenings outdoors start to feel noticeably more comfortable — perfect for bringing back sunset walks, al fresco dinners, and even desert stargazing sessions.
While mornings may bring patchy fog and the eastern region can still catch the odd pop-up shower, it’s nothing a quick forecast check can’t prep you for before a long drive or hike.
Overall, September is the UAE’s smooth transition from summer to autumn — and it’s finally starting to feel like it.
