As the evenings in the UAE become cooler, residents are increasingly enjoying late-night walks, weekend barbecues, and beachside get-togethers. The weather is just right — neither too hot nor too cold. However, air conditioners remain in use indoors since afternoons can still be warm, making homes feel stuffy without some cooling.
Doctors suggest that this combination of cool indoor air and mild outdoor breezes may be causing many people to fall ill.
Each year around this time, hospitals and clinics in the UAE experience a surge in patients with sore throats, runny noses, and mild fevers. “The human body is meant to adapt gradually to temperature changes,” explained Dr. Mahmoud Medhat, a critical care medicine specialist at International Modern Hospital Dubai. “Frequent transitions from cold, dry air-conditioned rooms to warm, humid outdoor air stress the body’s nasal and throat defense systems.”
Stay updated with the latest news by following KT on WhatsApp Channels.
According to him, these sudden shifts result in blood vessels constricting and dilating repeatedly. “This irritates the mucous membranes, making them more susceptible to viruses,” he noted.
Dr. Mahmoud Medhat, specialist in critical care medicine at International Modern Hospital Dubai
Seasonal Pattern
Doctors confirm this pattern is not new. The seasonal shift from summer to winter, from late September to November, often brings illness. Dr. Athira Jayaprakash Engoor, a medical practitioner at NMC Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi, observed a noticeable increase in infections recently.
Dr. Athira Jayaprakash Engoor, medical practitioner at NMC Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi
“Children are the first to show symptoms,” she noted. “Spread among kids is high in schools and outdoor play, and they pass it to their families, eventually affecting everyone, including parents at work.”
Dr. Athira explained that weather changes and cooler air conditioning lead to sinus and throat issues. “It’s not just the shift from hot weather to AC rooms. Colder weather causes sinus blockages, and AC adds dryness, increasing susceptibility to sinus infections,” she said.
Impact on Your Body
Doctors explained that the body constantly aims for balance. Moving from a cold indoor setting to warm outdoor air causes blood vessels to expand quickly to release heat, leading to stuffiness or headaches. “Humidity differences also affect breathing. Cold, dry indoor air dries the throat and nose, while warm outdoor air can cause swelling or a runny nose as the body adjusts,” said Dr. Medhat.
Dr. Marian Malak Eshak Morkos, a specialist in family medicine at Burjeel Day Surgery Center in Al Shahama, mentioned that frequent temperature changes strain the respiratory system. “Switching between cold and warm environments affects the mucous membranes, the body’s first defense line,” she stated.
Dr. Marian Malak Eshak Morkos, specialist in family medicine at Burjeel Day Surgery Center in Al Shahama
“Rapid cooling and heating dry them out, reducing their ability to trap and remove viruses effectively,” added Dr. Marian.
She noted that office workers are most affected. “They spend long hours in air-conditioned offices, stepping out into the heat for breaks. Children follow, as their immune systems are still developing. Delivery riders face constant exposure but tend to adapt better over time.”
‘Moderation is Key’
While some doctors believe temperature differences alone don’t directly cause illness, they agree it adds to body stress, especially when immunity is low.
Dr. Baiju Faizal, an internal medicine consultant at Lifecare Hospital Musaffah, noted there’s little evidence that temperature changes alone weaken immunity in healthy individuals. “Normal, healthy people have uncompromised thermal adaptability. However, long-term exposure to cold, dry air can affect adjustment abilities,” he said.
Dr. Baiju Faizal, consultant in internal medicine at Lifecare Hospital Musaffah
He emphasized that good nutrition, rest, and hydration are more important than temperature changes. “Overall health, stress levels, and sleep determine immune response. But for those with diabetes, asthma, or low immunity, fluctuations can worsen symptoms,” he said.
Common Symptoms
Most doctors report similar symptoms: sore throat, nasal congestion, sneezing, cough, mild fever, and fatigue. Most infections are viral and resolve in five to seven days. Patients should see a doctor for high fever, chest pain, or breathing issues.
To stay healthy, doctors recommend keeping indoor temperatures moderate, around 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, and avoiding very cold settings at night. “It’s not necessary to switch off the AC completely,” said Dr. Marian. “Keep it comfortable and let your body adjust slowly before going outdoors.”
Dr. Athira advised preventive measures like annual flu vaccinations and short courses of immunity-boosting supplements for those prone to recurring infections. “A large percentage of healthcare costs can be saved with just a yearly flu shot,” she stated.
As residents enjoy crisp evenings and outdoor weather, doctors advise moderation instead of extremes. “It’s not about avoiding AC or the outdoors,” said Dr. Medhat. “It’s about allowing your body to adapt and maintaining a consistent environment.”
