Morning fog and blustery winds with gusts of up to 60 kilometres per hour are set to grip the United Arab Emirates from Tuesday, December 30, through Saturday, January 3.

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has warned residents to prepare for a period of unsettled weather that includes rough seas and fluctuating temperatures.

Early in the forecast period, a notable dip in temperatures is expected as dusty conditions prevail. The Arabian Gulf will experience particularly turbulent waters throughout the week. In contrast, the Oman Sea is predicted to remain rough at times before settling into more moderate conditions as the weekend approaches.

The start of the New Year brings partly cloudy to overcast skies across much of the country. Despite these clouds, major cities can expect dry weather on New Year’s Eve, according to NCM forecasts. There remains a slight risk of rainfall earlier in the week—especially in northern and eastern regions—but this is expected to clear before celebrations begin.

Midweek should see daytime highs fall further before rebounding slightly towards week's end. Humidity levels during mornings could cause patches of fog or mist to develop over some coastal and inland areas later in the week.

Winds are forecasted to vary from light breezes to fresh gales, occasionally strong enough to whip up dust and sand, reducing visibility and potentially disrupting outdoor activities. Gusts may reach up to 60kmph at times as atmospheric instability continues through much of the holiday week.