In April 2024, unprecedented rainfall in Dubai and Oman, attributed to climate change and El Niño, resulted in severe flooding, claiming over 20 lives and causing extensive property and infrastructure damage. The World Weather Attribution group has linked the record rainfall, which increased by 10-40%, to human-induced climate disturbances and highlighted the exacerbating factors such as urban development and inadequate natural drainage.

In Dubai, the downpour disrupted normal life significantly, with the Dubai Mall, particularly the Fashion Avenue area, experiencing substantial flooding. This led to chaos and substantial economic impacts, prompting the UAE government to allocate 2 billion dirhams (£435 million) for damage recovery. Such weather events are unusual in the UAE, a region accustomed to a hot desert climate and minimal rainfall.

Moreover, the floods caused additional public health concerns, with reports of a mysterious illness spreading among residents due to consuming contaminated water. The UAE’s health ministry did not specify the nature of the contamination but confirmed several instances of related illness. The floods also interrupted major transport services, including at Dubai Airport where many flights were canceled.

The flooding incidents have reignited discussions on the role of climate change in intensifying weather patterns, with experts emphasizing the need for sustainable urban planning and reduced reliance on fossil fuels to mitigate future risks. The calls for action are supported by visual evidence from NASA, showcasing the severe flooding in typically arid regions, illustrating the significant shifts in climate and weather patterns affecting the region.