Stars Signal Seasonal Shift in the UAE

The Autumn Transition in the UAE: Stars, Winds, and Seasonal Change

Following the hottest period of the year, the United Arab Emirates enters a new era: the autumn transitional period, marking the beginning of the Safriyyah season. This season signifies both the easing of the intense heat and the gradual transformation of nature. Although the first weeks of September are still characterized by intense heatwaves and high humidity, the seasonal appearance of the Suhail star serves as an important signal: the weather begins a slow yet sure transition.

Constellations and Seasons: The Significance of Al Jabha

In the region, changes in the weather are carefully monitored not only through meteorological methods but also through centuries-old astronomical observations. The autumn season officially begins with the rise of the Al Jabha constellation, which belongs to the first autumn group of lunar mansions. This constellation consists of four bright stars, and as they move from south to north, they serve as indicators for farmers and shepherds.

One of the brightest stars in the group, Al-Malik – known as the "heart of the lion" – stands out in the night sky with its bluish-white color and extraordinary brightness. These stars have served as compasses for the desert dwellers for millennia, helping them predict seasons and weather.

The Periods of Al Safri and Al Wasm

Beginning on September 6, the Al Safri period is the first official autumn season on the Arabian Peninsula. This transitional phase falls between the end of summer (Al Qayz) and the start of winter, and lasts until October 15, when the Al Wasm season concludes. During this time, temperatures may not drop dramatically, but the weather gradually eases. Mornings are often marked by fog and dew, caused by humid southeasterly winds.

These winds activate the formation of cumulus clouds, particularly in the Hajar Mountains region, but they also affect the Sarawat Mountains in southern Saudi Arabia and Yemen. Ground temperatures can be lower from mid-September at sunrise, particularly near water bodies such as open lakes.

Stronger Changes by Mid-October

As the Safriya season reaches its peak around mid-October, the early morning chill intensifies. The so-called Akidib winds begin to strengthen, bringing cooler air and clouds from the north. This accelerates the drop in temperatures and prepares the ground for agricultural activities.

According to some traditional calculations – such as the Durur system – the Safriyyah lasts until the end of November, until the rise of the Al Samak star. Thus, this period can represent an autumn transition of up to three months.

Nature's Reaction to the Autumn Shift

The Safriya season holds not only meteorological or astronomical significance but also serves as an essential economic and ecological period. The autumn agricultural season officially begins during this time. Seeds are planted in shaded and protected greenhouses to shield them from the still-intense sunlight and drying winds. By early October, many places will start the final transplantation of seedlings and saplings.

Date harvesting also takes place during this time, along with the ripening of various fruits such as pomegranates and lemons. This period is particularly active for agriculture and is a crucial part of the rural economic cycle in the UAE.

Blooming of Wild Plants and Seasonal Lifestyle

During Al Safriyyah, several native plant species bloom, having adapted well to the desert environment. Among these are types of desert shrubs like the lizard thorns, shaflah, ashkhar, marakh, colocynth, khrit, ashraj, sidr, awsaj, qutb, and some acacia species. These plants play an essential role in the local ecosystem, providing food and habitat for desert wildlife.

Traditionally, this period also marked the beginning of migration for the peoples of the Arabian Peninsula: people would leave their urban homes and begin a pastoral life in the desert, hunting for rain and pastures. The name Safriyyah itself refers to the Arabic word Al-Sifr, meaning beginning or departure, alluding to the desertion of homes and the start of a new cycle.

A Season Connecting Past and Present

In the United Arab Emirates, the autumn transition is not merely a meteorological event but a period of deep cultural and economic significance. The Al Safri and the following Al Wasm not only bring relief after the intense heat but also present new opportunities: nature revives, the land becomes cultivable, and communities adhere to age-old traditions, aligning with the season's rhythm.

Behind the UAE's modern cities – like Dubai – lies a weather system that communicates with stars, winds, and seasonal plants. This ancient knowledge remains alive and continues to shape the country's seasonal changes across generations.

(The article is sourced from an Emirates Astronomy Society announcement.)