What Is a Sandstorm Called in Dubai?

By Alice Nichols

If you’ve ever been to Dubai or have seen pictures or videos of the city, you may have noticed massive sandstorms that can completely engulf the skyline. These sandstorms are a common occurrence in the Middle East, and they go by a few different names.

One of the most commonly used terms for a sandstorm in Dubai is “haboob.” This term comes from the Arabic word “habb,” which means wind. Haboobs are particularly intense sandstorms that can last for hours and even days.

During a haboob, strong winds blow across arid regions, picking up dust and sand particles in their path. As these winds move across Dubai’s desert landscape, they can reach speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour. The resulting sandstorm can be quite dangerous, causing low visibility on roads and affecting air quality.

In addition to haboobs, other terms used to describe sandstorms in Dubai include “shamal” and “badal.” Shamal is an Arabic word that means “northerly wind,” while badal refers to a sudden shift in wind direction that can cause a dust storm.

To protect themselves during these intense weather events, Dubai residents and visitors are advised to stay indoors whenever possible and avoid driving on roads unless absolutely necessary. It’s also important to wear masks or cover your face with a cloth to prevent inhaling dust particles.

In conclusion, while there are different names for sandstorms in Dubai such as haboob, shamal, and badal, all have one thing in common – they are powerful weather events that can be dangerous if proper precautions aren’t taken. If you ever find yourself in Dubai during one of these storms, remember to stay indoors and take care of your health by wearing a mask or covering your face with cloth.