UAE temperatures hit 51.8°C: Doctors warn of fainting episodes, heat strokes, sunburns

Khaleej Times

a day ago

As temperatures soared to 51.8°C in Sweihan, Al Ain, on Friday, August 1, the highest so far this year, health experts in the UAE are urging residents to take extra precautions, especially during the Al Mirzam period, considered the most extreme phase of hot weather during summer in the region.
The heat comes amid the Waghrat Al Qayz, or 'burning heat,' a phase that extends from July 29 to August 10. It is characterised by intensely dry desert winds known as samum, which raise risks of dehydration, heat strokes, and other health complications.
'We have seen a noticeable rise in heat-related emergency room visits in recent days,' said Dr Mohammad Fityan, climate health expert at Burjeel Holdings' Centre for Climate and Health.
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'Dehydration, sunburn, heat exhaustion, and worsening of chronic illnesses like heart or kidney disease are increasingly common,' added Dr Fityan.
Healthcare specialists also mentioned that even healthy individuals are vulnerable to this level of heat. 'Temperatures above 50 degrees Celsius can cause severe exhaustion and rapid dehydration. Children, the elderly, and outdoor workers face greater danger due to reduced ability to regulate body temperature.'
Doctors' recommendations
Dr Baiju Faizal, consultant of internal medicine at Lifecare Hospital, Musaffah, urged residents not to expose themselves to the sun directly. 'Even brief exposure can lead to fainting episodes, heatstroke, and complications like electrolyte imbalance, especially in people with underlying conditions like asthma or diabetes. We are also seeing an uptick in fungal infections and acute kidney failure.'
He warned that improper hydration or overconsumption of plain water without electrolytes can worsen symptoms in older adults, sometimes leading to low sodium levels and confusion.
Doctors advise residents to drink at least 3 to 4 litres of fluids daily, including coconut water, oral rehydration solutions, and fruits rich in water, like watermelon and oranges. They also recommend wearing loose, light-coloured clothing, avoiding the sun between 10am and 4pm, and using sunscreen.
Despite the heat, Dubai continues to find creative ways to promote fitness. The Dubai Mallathon, launched this week across various malls, invites residents to jog or walk indoors from 7am to 10am for free, offering a cool alternative to outdoor exercise.
Many fitness enthusiasts are being spotted jogging at malls in Dubai. Doctors say initiatives like the Mallathon can be effective in maintaining physical health during periods of high heat without exposing individuals to sunstroke risks.
As the Al Mirzam period continues through August 10, experts stress that awareness, hydration, and limited exposure to direct heat are key to staying safe.