Hi there! I’m Ghada Al Fakih, a Lebanese Clinical Health Psychology postgraduate student at Queen's University Belfast. I lived a big chunk of my life in Dubai, where the weather is the same as Belfast’s, but instead of the rain, we had sun, heat waves, induced rain, and sand storms all the time.

Ever since moving in September, I've had my fair share of experiences with Belfast’s weather. It's a unique blend of sunshine, rain, wind, and sometimes all three in a single day! So, here are my essentials for navigating Belfast’s weather.

Firstly, the most common weather phenomenon - rain. It's no secret that it rains quite a bit here, so a sturdy, compact umbrella is a must-have. But remember, it's not just about having an umbrella; it's about having one that can withstand the sudden gusts of wind that often accompany the rain. I learned this the hard way when my first umbrella turned inside out in the middle of a downpour!

Prepare yourself for the big move to Belfast!

Layer up

Layers, layers, and more layers. Belfast's weather is notorious for its rapid changes. One moment, it's chilly. The next, it's warm. The other way around is also true. Layering your clothes allows you to adapt to these changes quickly. I usually start with a light t-shirt, add a warm sweater, and top it off with a waterproof jacket. This way, I'm prepared for all eventualities.

Waterproof essentials

Speaking of jackets, investing in a good quality waterproof jacket was one of the best decisions I made when I moved to Belfast. It not only protects me from the rain but also acts as a windbreaker on those particularly blustery days. Plus, it's easy to carry around when the sun makes an appearance. A good waterproof jacket is a versatile piece of clothing that can handle Belfast's weather.

Hello sunshine! Things to do in the sun

Footwear is another important consideration. Wet weather can lead to slippery surfaces, so a pair of shoes with good grip is essential. It can be tricky to match outfits with different shoes, but a pair of waterproof boots is a must-have. They keep my feet dry and warm, but sturdy sneakers can also do the trick.

Accessories can make a difference

Remember your accessories. A warm scarf, gloves, and hat can make a difference when the temperature drops. I always keep these in my bag during the colder months. And when the sun shines brightly, a pair of sunglasses is of course very handy. I have an inexplicable fear of getting frostbite, so gloves are necessary.

Must-See Places to Visit in Belfast at its Most Beautiful

Make sure to plan ahead

Lastly, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before you leave the house. Having a rough idea of what to expect can help you plan your day better. There are plenty of apps that provide accurate forecasts, so make use of them to stay one step ahead of the weather.

Belfast's weather is part of its charm

Living in Belfast has taught me to embrace the unpredictability of the weather. It's part of the city's charm. With these essentials, you too can navigate Belfast's weather like a pro. Remember, there's no bad weather, only unsuitable clothing. So, gear up and enjoy everything this beautiful city offers, rain or shine! The more you accept and enjoy the weather, the warmer you’ll feel from the inside. It's wholesome!

Find out more

Hello Sunshine! Things to do in the Sun

Life in Belfast

More blogs about Belfast and NI

Lebanon Admissions Guide

Clinical Health Psychology (MSc)

Ghada Al Fakih Clinical Health Psychology | Postgraduate Student | Beirut, Lebanon Ghada Al Fakih is a passionate, hard-working, and selfless individual, devoted to helping others grow, while elevating surrounding vibrations with harmony and positivity. She is a well-rounded and accomplished individual with a strong passion for helping others. She is a valuable asset to any team and is sure to make a positive impact on the world. Ghada is pursuing her Master of Science in Clinical Health Psychology at Queen's University Belfast. She has a strong background in psychology and public health. She is a certified Emotional Liberation Breathing Practitioner and has completed a clinical psychology rotation at the American University of Beirut Medical Center.