Al Mirzam star marks start of transition from peak summer heat in the UAE

The appearance of the Al Mirzam star, astronomically known as Sirius, has risen in the eastern horizon of the United Arab Emirates, signalling the final stage of the traditional "Jumr Al Qaith" or peak summer heat. The National Centre of Meteorology recorded temperatures of 50 °C in Al Shawamekh, Abu Dhabi, as the star re‑emerged about 40‑50 minutes before sunrise after a four‑week disappearance.

Ibrahim Al Jarwan, chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, explained that while the star’s rise historically marks the end of the hottest period, relief will be gradual. An influx of humid air will foster the formation of local "Al Ruwayyah" clouds, but noticeable cooling is not expected until November. The event also carries cultural weight, aligning with the peak date harvest and recalling the historic pearl‑diving season that once guided farmers and fishermen across the peninsula.