Dubai Weather & Cars: What You Should Know Before Buying
Extreme Heat and the Melting Cars Rumor
In May 2025, the UAE recorded record-breaking heat, with temperatures reaching 51.6 °C in Sweihan and the mid-40s °C in Dubai. Shortly after, viral videos circulated online claiming that cars were melting under the heat.
Experts quickly debunked these claims. Cars are designed to withstand extreme desert conditions. The viral videos were traced back to unrelated fire incidents or footage from other countries.
Although cars do not actually melt in Dubai’s heat, high temperatures can damage batteries, tires, and interiors, especially if vehicles are parked under direct sunlight for long periods.
Historic Floods and Their Impact
On April 16, 2024, Dubai experienced its worst rainfall in 75 years, with up to 254 mm of rain in just 24 hours. The floods damaged more than 50,000 vehicles, many of which were written off or required major repairs.
The UAE government announced a AED 2 billion repair fund. However, many flood‑damaged vehicles eventually entered the used car market, some without proper disclosure of their history.
Changing Buyer Behavior and Market Trends
Since the floods, buyer preferences have shifted significantly:
- SUV and pickup truck demand increased by 13% and 11%, due to better flood resilience.
- Sedan sales dropped by 5%, as lower ground clearance makes them more vulnerable.
- New car demand surged by 30% as buyers sought reliable, damage-free options.
How Car Owners Adapt to Extreme Weather
To cope with Dubai’s hot climate, many car owners invest in:
- Ceramic window tinting to reduce cabin temperature by up to 40%.
- Solar-powered ventilators to keep interiors cooler and prevent dashboard damage.
- Regular maintenance including tire pressure checks, coolant top-ups, and battery health monitoring.
Dubai also experienced an unusual cold wave in June 2025, with temperatures dipping to the mid‑30s °C, highlighting the region’s increasing weather variability.
Car-Buying Checklist for Dubai Weather Conditions
- Check for Flood Damage: Inspect chassis, carpets, and underbody for corrosion or water residue. Review the vehicle’s history for flood repairs or insurance claims.
- Choose the Right Vehicle Type: SUVs and pickups offer better flood resilience. Sedans are cheaper but more vulnerable.
- Ensure Heat Resilience: Check the air-conditioning system, invest in ceramic tinting and sunshades, and plan for regular maintenance.
- Ignore Viral Myths: Cars are built for desert climates. Focus on proper care and informed buying rather than false rumors.
Key Takeaway
Dubai’s climate, from extreme heat to historic floods, has reshaped the car market and buyer preferences. SUVs and pickups are more popular, and buyers remain cautious about potential flood damage in used cars.
Before buying, always get a thorough inspection, verify the vehicle’s history, and consider heat-protective upgrades to ensure a safe and long-lasting purchase.
FAQs
Do cars melt in Dubai’s heat?
No. Cars are designed to withstand high desert temperatures. Viral “melting car” videos were either fake or unrelated incidents.
Why are SUVs and pickups more popular after the floods?
They offer higher ground clearance and better performance in flood-prone areas, making them safer in extreme weather.
How can I avoid buying a flood‑damaged car?
Check the chassis for rust, inspect carpets for water damage, test electronics, and review the car’s history report for any flood-related claims.
What should I do to protect my car in extreme heat?
Park in shaded areas, use ceramic window tint, apply sunshades, and maintain your car’s cooling system and battery health regularly.
For more car-buying tips and verified dealerships in Dubai, visit Shozon.