Emirates has warned passengers of fresh travel disruption at Dubai International Airport as a powerful storm system brings torrential rain, hail, thunder and strong winds to the UAE, Emerging Travel reported.

The announcement adds a second layer of disruption to an airport already operating a reduced schedule due to the regional conflict.

An amber weather alert is in force across Dubai on March 26 and 27, with the National Centre of Meteorology warning that the peak of the storm is expected on the night of March 26 into the early hours of March 27.

The UAE has been battered by heavy rainfall since March 23, with parts of Abu Dhabi and Ajman recording close to a year's worth of rain in a single day.

Emirates urged passengers departing Dubai International Airport to check their flight status before travelling and arrive at least two hours ahead of the scheduled departure. The airline also asked travellers to ensure their contact details are up to date to receive disruption notifications.

Dubai Civil Defence has deployed major field operations across the emirate to manage flooding and respond to emergencies. Dubai Media Office warned that fines of up to AED1,000 ($272) and six driving licence penalty points could be imposed on those who venture near valleys, dams or flood-prone areas.

The storm comes as Emirates works to restore full operations by March 29 following the partial closure of UAE airspace earlier in March. Most major international carriers, including British Airways, Lufthansa and KLM, remain suspended at Dubai International Airport.

The Abu Dhabi-based National Centre for Meteorology urged UAE residents to avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.