- The eastern coastal plain of the UAE receives more rainfall than the western coastal plain.
- This is because the eastern coastal plain is located in the path of the prevailing winds that come from the Indian Ocean. These winds bring moisture from the ocean, which then condenses and falls as rain.
- The western coastal plain, on the other hand, is located in a rain shadow. This means that it is protected from the prevailing winds by the Hajar Mountains. As a result, the western coastal plain receives very little rainfall.
The average annual rainfall in the eastern coastal plain is around 100 mm, while the average annual rainfall in the western coastal plain is around 50 mm.
Additional Factors Influencing Rainfall in the UAE
In addition to the prevailing winds, several other factors can influence rainfall in the UAE. These include:
- Ocean currents: The UAE is located near several ocean currents, including the warm Persian Gulf Current and the cooler Gulf of Oman Current. These currents can affect the temperature of the air and the amount of moisture in the atmosphere.
- Mountains: The Hajar Mountains run along the eastern coast of the UAE. These mountains can block the flow of moisture from the Indian Ocean, which can lead to lower rainfall in the western coastal plain.
- Deserts: The UAE is located in a desert climate. This means that the air is very dry, which can inhibit the formation of clouds and rainfall.