Dubai Fog Disrupts City as Landmark Skyscraper Vanishes from View

A thick fog blanketed the United Arab Emirates on November 20. The unexpected weather severely reduced visibility across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Traffic slowed to a crawl as the iconic Burj Khalifa disappeared into the mist.

Authorities issued urgent safety alerts for motorists. According to Gulf News, the UAE’s National Center of Meteorology activated red and yellow alerts. Residents quickly took to social media to share surreal images of the transformed cityscape.

Social Media Erupts with Comparisons to Delhi’s Winters

The dense fog prompted immediate and widespread reactions online. One user posted a video joking that the Burj Khalifa was “missing.” Another commented that the world’s tallest building appeared to be “sleeping.”

Many Indian expatriates noted the striking resemblance to winter in North India. A popular post on X simply stated, “Dubai aaj Dilli ho rakha hai,” meaning Dubai has become like Delhi today. The shared experience created a moment of cultural connection amid the disruption.

Official Warnings and Broader Transportation Impact

The fog had a tangible impact on daily life and transportation. Both Dubai Police and Abu Dhabi Police issued direct warnings to drivers. They urged extreme caution and adherence to variable speed limits displayed on electronic signs.

Key areas like Zayed International Airport and Al Qudra were among the locations most affected. The reports from Reuters corroborate the significant disruption to early morning commutes. The event highlighted the city’s vulnerability to rare but impactful weather phenomena.

The sudden Dubai fog event serves as a powerful reminder of nature’s ability to transform even the most modern urban landscapes. While the mist has since cleared, the dramatic images of a vanished skyline will linger in public memory.

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Which areas in the UAE were most affected by the fog?

The fog was particularly dense in areas including Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport and Seih Shuaib. In Dubai, Al Lisaili and Al Qudra were also heavily impacted. The National Center of Meteorology identified these as key locations in its alerts.

How did authorities respond to the low visibility?

Dubai Police and Abu Dhabi Police both issued public safety warnings on social media. They specifically urged motorists to drive cautiously and follow the changing speed limits on electronic road signs.

Was air travel affected by the weather conditions?

While the fog covered areas near Zayed International Airport, major flight disruptions were not widely reported. The primary impact was on road traffic, where visibility dropped dramatically, slowing all movement.

How long did the dense fog event last?

The thick fog was a morning phenomenon, as reported by residents who woke up to it. It persisted for several hours, creating hazardous driving conditions during the key morning commute before eventually dissipating.

Why did people compare the Dubai fog to Delhi?

The comparison was made due to the visual similarity of the dense fog to what commonly occurs in Delhi during the winter months. The heavy mist obscuring tall buildings is a familiar sight in the Indian capital, creating a relatable reference for many.

Trusted Sources

Gulf News, Reuters, UAE National Center of Meteorology (NCM), Dubai Police, Abu Dhabi Police.