It’s the season of al fresco dining and shisha.
The much-awaited desert winter has finally arrived, ushered in by a November rain that considerably dropped temperatures from a high 30s Celsius to 21°C, even 9.5 °C in Jebel Jais at a little past midnight on Nov. 11, according to the National Center of Meteorology (NCM).
Indeed, up ahead will be 19 °C at 9am with days and nights tending to become cooler towards January.
Filipinos are no strangers when it comes to rainfall, with the Philippines’ tropical climate – which is why the rains that took place a week earlier in the UAE was a welcome sight for many, as it was seen as a blessing for the usually-dry lands of the country and more importantly, as a sign that the cooler seasons have arrived.
Hello Winter
Clear to cloudy skies followed days after one of 2019’s heaviest rains here in the UAE and as of press time, temperatures have gone down to less than 29 degrees and it will only get cooler from here on.
As the country thrusts towards mid-November, it’s only a matter of weeks before the UAE’s coolest months arrive where many Filipinos and residents can once again enjoy outdoor activities. Here are some of the most popular hangouts of Filipinos and other expats during this season.
Camping
The cooler weather invites adventurous souls to traverse the wide expanse of the UAE’s desert areas and beaches as these places become more conducive for camping activities under the clear night skies. Travelers would also get to enjoy and bask in the UAE’s glorious sunrise the morning after.
Trekking
Cyclist and enthusiasts can now begin planning their route to travel towards the country’s peaks with temperatures getting cooler the higher they soar. Those who are brave enough to push themselves to the limit will enjoy a lovely view of the UAE from the top.
Swimming
UAE’s winter season is arguably one, if not, the best season for families and barkadas to enjoy a dip at both public and private beaches all around the country. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see groups of Filipinos on the shores hanging out with their friends as they wade through the waters.
Picnics
If there’s one thing that gets families and barkadas together – it’s the idea of a potluck where everyone gets to prepare their signature dish to share with everyone. With the cooler climate ahead, Filipinos can even get to do barbecues at selected picnic areas around the UAE where it’s allowed, boosting that authentic Pinoy picnic experience.
Outdoor dining
Outdoor dining – al fresco – becomes the norm as well, complete with the good ol’ hookah. Rigga in Deira will once again transform into a 24-hour promenade of sorts, the place being home to the biggest number of Filipinos in Dubai, next only to Satwa. No official record readily available but any observer could easily say that at least six to seven of every 10 people they see on the streets will be Filipinos.
Evening jogs
Filipinos also take advantage of the cooler weather to do their walking right after their 9-5 and dinner. Regardless if they’re with their friend, with a group or even just solo strolling, they simply love the atmosphere and general climate that seemingly makes it easier to walk and burn some carbs.
Visiting outdoor theme parks
The winter season likewise ushers in the re-opening of its iconic theme parks which include the interactive, internationally themed pavilions of Global Village, the colorful flowers and shrubberies of Dubai Miracle Garden, the dazzling lights and views of Dubai Garden Glow, and more.
Reminiscing Rainfalls
As the rain fell across the UAE, Filipinos and residents of other nationalities were quick to share photos of their experiences at work, on the road, at their homes, as well as other places. The UAE came prepared as citizens were advised early on about the weather, courtesy of the country’s National Center for Meteorology (NCM) that has warned the public a few days earlier as it continuously monitors the climate.
