UAE experiences an unusually cold start to the year with 3.5°
by Ruman Baig
2 hours ago
The United Arab Emirates, known for its scorching desert heat, has experienced an uncharacteristic start to 2025, with temperatures plummeting to record lows. Residents of the usually balmy nation are bundling up in warm clothing as a cold snap grips the region, bringing with it chilly winds and overcast skies.
#أقل_درجة_حرارة سجلت على الدولة صباح هذا اليوم 3.5 درجة مئوية في جبل جيس (رأس الخيمة) الساعة 07:45 بالتوقيت المحلي لدولة الإمارات.#The_lowest_temperature recorded over the country today morning was 3.5 °C in Jais Mountain (Ras Al Khaimah) at 07:45 UAE Local time. pic.twitter.com/xUAM2zJCHd
— المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@ncmuae) January 2, 2025
On January 1, 2025, the UAE recorded a low of 3.5°C in Ras Al Khaimah, signaling a stark departure from the typical warm climate. Weather forecasts predict that this cool trend will persist for the next few days, with temperatures expected to dip as low as 12°C in coastal areas. Cloud cover and light rainfall are also anticipated, further contributing to the unseasonably cool weather.
While residents adjust to this unusual chill, it's worth noting the historical context of such low temperatures in the UAE. The coldest temperature ever recorded in the country was -2°C in January 2021 in Raknah, Al Ain, a low-lying area that experienced sub-zero temperatures for the first time since records began.
This recent cold snap, coupled with the record low in 2021, raises questions about the evolving climate in the region. While the UAE is known for its hot and arid climate, these instances of extreme cold suggest a potential shift in weather patterns. Whether this trend will continue remains to be seen, but it underscores the dynamic nature of climate and the possibility of unexpected weather events in the future.
As the UAE grapples with this unusual cold spell, residents are adapting to the change, embracing warmer clothing and adjusting their daily routines.
The temperature drop in Dubai has served us the perfect reason to hunt the best hot chocolate in town. Here's EW-approved list of worthy contenders. Angelina Paris
More than a simple patisserie, this luxury French restaurant serves Hot chocolate as one of the signature drinks at this French cafe. This molten chocolate beverage is served in a fancy cup without sacrificing its consistency to provide every customer with a rich and creamy taste. The old-fashion hot chocolate is made from a unique recipe combining superior quality African cocoas with artisanal know-how and is priced at Dhs41. Located in Dubai Mall, it's open from 9am to 12am. EL&N
All coffee needs are catered to with a range of classic house coffees and speciality lattes on the menu including the oh-so-decadent Oreo Spanish Latte and Iced Salted Caramel Frappe. Hot chocolate comes in all varieties, with milk, dark, white and Nutella guaranteed to warm up a winter's eve, as well as the sinfully sweet Turkish Delight Hot Chocolate.
For more information visit ae.elnlondon.com Godiva
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For a gourmet experience, Godiva brings its 100 years after being founded in Brussels with fine craftsmanship. Each spoonful of ice cream pairs the finest ingredients with the iconic chocolate experience. With flavours such as Midnight Swirl and with Dark Chocolate to innovative flavours such as Mint Medallion, customers are spoiled for choice.. Made using the finest chocolate, Godiva's hot chocolate is smooth, velvety, and creamy. Theo chocolate bomb is priced at Dhs25 and the traditional hot chocolate is Dhs42. Located at City Walk, Dubai Festival City, Mall of the Emirates and The Outlet Village, the restaurant is situated around various spots in Dubai.
For more information visit Hoof Café
This home-grown specialty coffee cafe that sources an array of superior coffee beans from thirteen different countries and is founded by three friends that share a passion for horses. With the finest hot chocolate, guests can enjoy a warm winter at this one-of-a-kind café in Dubai Mall.
For more information visit Ladurée
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This Parisian haven that started with the concept of flavourful macroons has now become a hit in the region. With various recipes crafted to perfection, the French patisserie has a special hot chocolate made from the finest ingredients, the drink is made in the Ladurée style which is unabashedly rich, luxuriously thick, textbook smooth, and the kind of delicious that forces you to stop all reasonable conversation so you can sip all evening long. It's priced at Dhs39 and is available across various locations including Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi and more. Mirzam
This transparent chocolate production space lets guests experience the art of chocolate making through its rich heritage. The brand is now experimenting with winter special recipes, all-natural and always vegan crumbled chocolate recipes make the creamiest cups, from just two ingredients: organic cocoa beans and unrefined cane sugar. From Rose Spiced Drinking Chocolate to a myriad of other innovative flavours start from Dhs26. Located in Al Quoz 3, this venue is the perfect winter hotspot. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @livia_auer
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