The storm’s impact was evident across numerous neighbourhoods, as homes were flooded and parking areas transformed into temporary pools.
Some UAE residents saw streets flood, cars partially submerged, and tree branches scattered across parking areas as heavy rain and strong winds swept through parts of the country on Wednesday.
From Al Nuaimiya and Al Khor to low-lying areas of Al Rashidiya, the storm’s effects were evident across many neighbourhoods, with water entering homes, parking areas turning into temporary pools, and strong winds causing damage to windows and balconies.
In Al Rashidiya, where many residents live in small villas and work as cab drivers, tailors, and bakers, low-lying homes were flooded.
“We had been following the news all week, so we knew the rain was coming,” said Rafiqul Hussain, a driver and local resident. “A day before, we moved mattresses, pillows, and other belongings, placed the TV on a higher shelf, and kept important items off the floor. We remembered the torrential rain of April 2024 and all the hardship it caused, so this time we didn’t want to take any risks.”
Despite their precautions, water still entered homes.
“Within minutes, the water started coming inside. At one point, it felt like the whole hall would fill up,” Hussain said. “It stayed for almost four to five hours. At first, we just stood and watched because there was little we could do while the rain was so heavy.”
Once the downpour eased after about an hour, residents began clearing the water together. “Our neighbours, shopkeepers, even kids came to help us and others whose homes were flooded. It took time, but gradually we managed,” Hussain added, noting that this had been the routine over the past two days, though Thursday’s showers were lighter.
Residents in high-rise buildings faced a different set of challenges during the storm.
Zeba Khan, a resident of City Tower, described how quickly the situation escalated. “The wind was extremely strong. Items on the balcony kept moving and hitting the walls. For a moment, I worried they might fall down,” she said.
The damage was sudden. “My balcony door slammed and cracked, and at the same time, the kitchen window also broke. Rainwater started entering from both sides. We had to rush to close everything and place towels around,” Khan added.
Shaver Ali, a resident of Al Khor Tower and a businessman, shared a similar experience. “I had left for the office early and returned home by 12. We have old-style windows, and I had forgotten to shut one,” he said. Around 1:30 pm, while having lunch, he heard a loud crack—his bedroom window had broken from the wind pressure, allowing water to flood inside. “We tried to manage it, but it was very difficult at that moment,” Ali added. He said the situation improved once the rain subsided, allowing residents to clean using mops and towels.
Parked vehicles were also affected, especially those left in open areas. Ramee Al Numan, a restaurant manager living in Al Khor, said he had parked his car a few lanes away due to limited building parking. “When I returned, I saw tree branches had fallen over it. Thankfully, there was no damage,” he said.
The situation, however, is still ongoing for some residents. Ramee Al Numan noted that a fallen date palm behind his car has blocked its exit. “Right now, I can’t even move the car because a big tree has fallen behind it. Once that is cleared, only then I can take it out. I’m just hoping it doesn’t rain again, otherwise it may cause damage,” he said.
Authorities have assured the public that they are actively responding to such incidents. Ajman Police confirmed their readiness to handle weather-related situations around the clock and reminded residents that their smart application can be used to obtain vehicle damage certificates or report lost number plates caused by rain.
Ajman Transport Authority also stated that it is continuing its operational plan amid the current weather, ramping up efforts of public transport teams and taxis while monitoring traffic closely to ensure user safety and continuity of services.
Although many residents said prior experience from last year’s heavy rains helped them prepare better this time, challenges persist in low-lying areas and open parking spaces as clean-up and recovery efforts continue.
