Why do Indian expats chase rain in the UAE desert?

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Indian Expats Seek Desert Rain for Monsoon Nostalgia

Indian expatriates in the UAE, particularly those hailing from Kerala, are driven to chase rain in the desert due to a profound sense of nostalgia for their homeland's monsoon season. This pursuit is exemplified by individuals like Muhammed Sajjad, an estate agent who, since relocating to the UAE in 2015, has dedicated himself to locating and experiencing rainfall within the arid landscape. He utilizes advanced tools such as satellite imagery and weather data to forecast potential rain events, subsequently sharing these prospects with a substantial following on his Instagram account, "UAE Weatherman," and organizing expeditions for fellow expatriates who share this yearning for rain.
Longing for Homeland's Climate

The experience of rain in the UAE desert serves as a powerful emotional link to home for these expatriates, evoking memories and feelings associated with the monsoon season in India. Sajjad himself struggled to adapt to the climate upon his arrival in 2015, noting that his move coincided with Kerala's peak monsoon period. This stark contrast between his home climate and the UAE's arid environment spurred his quest to find rain locally, seeking to recreate a familiar and cherished natural phenomenon.
Utilizing Technology to Track Rainfall

To facilitate these rain-chasing expeditions, Sajjad employs a range of sophisticated technological tools. By analysing satellite imagery and meteorological data, he identifies areas where rainfall is most likely to occur. He then forecasts these potential events and disseminates this information to his 130,000 Instagram followers. This systematic approach allows him to lead groups of "rain lovers" into the desert interior, maximizing their chances of witnessing this rare occurrence.
The Scarcity and Allure of Desert Rain

Rainfall in the UAE is a scarce event, with an average annual precipitation of only 50 to 100 millilitres, predominantly falling during the winter months. Summer rainfall is particularly infrequent and often occurs away from the densely populated coastal regions. This scarcity intensifies the allure of any rainfall, compelling those who seek it, like Sajjad and his followers, to venture deep into the desert interior. The contrast is further highlighted by the UAE recording its hottest April on record this year, making the prospect of experiencing rain even more compelling for those yearning for a different climate.

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Why do Indian expats chase rain in the UAE desert?

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