Just hours after flight diversions at DXB, the UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) escalated its advisory to a red alert—the top tier in its three-step system—covering large parts of Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah through the morning commute of 20 November. Police reduced motorway speed limits to 80 km/h and deployed extra patrols, while dozens of schools switched to remote learning.
Under Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation guidelines, employees delayed by officially declared severe weather are exempt from salary deductions, provided HR departments retain documented communications. Mobility managers should circulate NCM updates and check that duty-of-care clauses cover ground-travel disruptions.
![UAE Issues Highest-Level Fog Alert; Employers Reminded of Duty-of-Care Rules]()
Ride-hailing platforms saw surge pricing and longer wait times; logistics firms reported slower collections at Jebel Ali Free Zone. Companies with temperature-sensitive cargo should review cold-chain protocols during prolonged roadside dwell times.
Although fog season traditionally peaks between December and February, meteorologists warn that early-season events are becoming more frequent as climate patterns shift. Businesses are urged to revisit business-continuity plans, particularly for staff on early-morning shifts.
Motorists were reminded not to drive with hazard lights on while moving—a common practice that attracts on-the-spot fines and further reduces visibility for other drivers.
Under Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation guidelines, employees delayed by officially declared severe weather are exempt from salary deductions, provided HR departments retain documented communications. Mobility managers should circulate NCM updates and check that duty-of-care clauses cover ground-travel disruptions.
Ride-hailing platforms saw surge pricing and longer wait times; logistics firms reported slower collections at Jebel Ali Free Zone. Companies with temperature-sensitive cargo should review cold-chain protocols during prolonged roadside dwell times.
Although fog season traditionally peaks between December and February, meteorologists warn that early-season events are becoming more frequent as climate patterns shift. Businesses are urged to revisit business-continuity plans, particularly for staff on early-morning shifts.
Motorists were reminded not to drive with hazard lights on while moving—a common practice that attracts on-the-spot fines and further reduces visibility for other drivers.
