Autumn Begins in UAE on September 23
The United Arab Emirates officially enters autumn on September 23, marked by a gradual drop in temperatures and the arrival of winter clouds. Astronomical observations note the equinox and its effects on daylight, while local experts predict weather patterns and agricultural benefits.
By Felo News Desk · Published
The United Arab Emirates will officially welcome autumn on Wednesday, September 23, according to the latest astronomical calculations released by the Emirates Astronomical Society. The equinox marks the moment when the Sun’s axis is perpendicular to the equator, creating nearly equal day and night lengths. Residents can expect a welcome shift from the blistering summer heat to more moderate temperatures, as well as the first hints of winter clouds in mid‑October.
What Happens on the Equinox?
On the morning of September 23, the sky will display familiar constellations such as Gemini, Taurus, Leo, Sirius, Canopus, and the Pleiades in the eastern horizon. The equinox itself is an astronomical event that signals the Sun’s transition toward the southern hemisphere. While the day and night are almost equal, the length of daylight will gradually shorten after the equinox, with shadows growing longer each week.
Temperature Trends for the Season
According to Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomical Society and a member of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences, the average high temperature at the start of autumn will hover around 39 °C. By early November, highs are expected to reach 31 °C with lows dropping to 18 °C. The season’s end will see temperatures stabilize at a comfortable 25 °C during the day and a cool 13 °C at night, coinciding with the winter solstice on December 22.
Humidity levels will rise during the first half of autumn, creating foggy mornings that can reduce visibility in the capital and other urban centers. This increase in moisture is a natural precursor to the first winter rains, which are anticipated to arrive in mid‑October.
Weather Forecasts and Agricultural Implications
Jarwan highlighted that the first half of autumn is considered the optimal period for planting across the Arabian Peninsula. The cooler temperatures and higher humidity create ideal conditions for transplanting seedlings, sowing new crops, and establishing saplings for the upcoming agricultural cycle. Farmers will benefit from a reduced risk of heat‑stress damage that plagued the earlier summer months.
While the season’s cooler weather brings relief, residents should prepare for the arrival of winter clouds and the potential for rain. Local meteorological services advise checking daily forecasts, especially as the season progresses toward the solstice, when precipitation chances increase.
How the Season Affects Daily Life
With the gradual drop in temperature, many UAE residents will find that outdoor activities become more comfortable. The shift also impacts energy consumption patterns, as air‑conditioning demand typically decreases during the cooler months. Businesses and schools may adjust schedules to accommodate the changing daylight hours, which will become noticeably shorter after the equinox.
Tourists visiting the UAE during this period can enjoy the city’s attractions without the oppressive heat, making it an ideal time for desert safaris, beach visits, and cultural tours. The cooler evenings also provide a pleasant backdrop for evening markets and outdoor dining.
What Happens Next?
As the season progresses, the UAE will experience a steady decline in daytime temperatures and a gradual increase in nighttime chill. The arrival of winter clouds in mid‑October will bring the first rain showers, which are expected to become more frequent after the middle of autumn. By the end of the season, the climate will settle into a mild pattern, setting the stage for the winter solstice and the briefest day of the year.
Residents and visitors should stay informed about local weather updates, especially during the transition periods, to make the most of the changing climate. The Emirates Astronomical Society will continue to monitor the equinox and its effects on daylight and shadow lengths, providing scientific insights for both the public and the agricultural community.
Key facts
- Autumn starts September 23, marked by the equinox
- Daytime temperatures drop from 39 °C to 25 °C
- Humidity rises and fog forms in early mornings
- Winter clouds and rain begin mid‑October
- First half of autumn is ideal for planting
- Daylight shortens after the equinox
Why it matters
Knowing the exact start of autumn helps residents plan for cooler weather, adjust energy use, and prepare for the first winter rains, while farmers can time planting to maximize crop success.
Frequently asked questions
When does the UAE officially enter autumn?
September 23, when the astronomical equinox occurs.
What temperatures can residents expect?
Highs start at 39 °C, dropping to 25 °C by season’s end; lows fall from 18 °C to 13 °C.
Will there be rain during autumn?
Yes, winter clouds arrive in mid‑October and rain chances increase after mid‑autumn.
Why is autumn good for planting?
Cooler temperatures and higher humidity reduce heat stress and support seed germination.
Sources
- [1] khaleejtimes.com — originally reported as “Autumn in UAE to begin on September 23; temperatures to gradually dip”
