The UAE summer season Pleiades phase begins on April 28, according to the Emirates Astronomy Society, marking the transition into a period historically associated with rising heat and dryness.
This seasonal shift continues until June 7 and aligns with the setting of the Pleiades, a celestial event long used by Bedouin communities to track environmental change.
Traditional Calendar Rooted in Observation
For generations, desert communities have relied on the movement of stars to interpret seasonal transitions. The setting of the Pleiades signals the beginning of a phase known as “Al Kanna” or “Al Ghuyoub,” a period when the cluster aligns with the sun and becomes invisible from Earth.
Before disappearing, the Pleiades appears low on the western horizon after sunset. As it approaches alignment with the sun, visibility fades until it vanishes from sight. After this phase, it re-emerges in the eastern sky before sunrise, marking the progression toward peak summer.
Rising Heat Leads Into Peak Season
The current period acts as a precursor to the more intense phase of summer known as “Al Qayz,” which begins after the reappearance of the Pleiades and continues until the rise of Suhail.
This later stage is associated with extreme heat and dryness across the region, reinforcing the importance of early seasonal awareness.
Weather Signals Observed by Seafarers
As the Pleiades approaches its setting, traditional knowledge highlights a period of sudden weather fluctuations referred to as “Bulat Al Thuraya.”
Historically, seafarers monitored these changes closely, as they often occurred roughly 10 days before the star’s disappearance and could impact navigation and safety.
These observations formed part of a broader system where environmental patterns guided daily activity.
Cultural Practices Reflect Seasonal Awareness
The UAE summer season Pleiades period also influenced cultural practices.
Communities historically avoided physically demanding activities such as camel racing or excessive labour during this time. Certain practices, including cupping (hijama), were also postponed.
These adjustments reflected an understanding of how environmental stress affected both people and animals.
Knowledge System Built on Environment
Insights shared by Ibrahim Al Jarwan highlight how this seasonal framework connects astronomy with lived experience. The movement of stars provided a reliable structure for anticipating climate conditions, long before modern forecasting systems.
Seasonal Transition Continues to Hold Relevance
The UAE summer season Pleiades marker remains a reference point, linking traditional knowledge with present-day awareness of climate patterns. While modern systems provide precision, historical frameworks continue to offer context. The shift is not only astronomical. It reflects a long-standing relationship between environment, observation, and daily life.
