Suhail Star spotted in the UAE, meaning the intense Summer will soon be OVER!

According to Dubai Crescent Sighting Committee at the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai, the Suhail Star has now been spotted in the UAE.

So, what’s the big deal about this star? Well, in local folklore, the rising of the Suhail star marks the end of the intense summer heat and the beginning of more pleasant weather. 

The Suhail star, also known as Lambda Velorum, is the second brightest star in the sky after Sirius from the constellation Canis Major. 

At 27 million years old and located 310 light years away from Earth, it’s a cosmic heavyweight. Historically, its appearance in the second half of August has been a reliable indicator of cooler days ahead. Al Jarwan hasn’t given an exact date yet, but keep your eyes peeled as we get closer. Now, don’t get too excited just yet. 

While the Suhail star’s rising is a promising sign, we shouldn’t expect an instant drop in temperatures. UAE residents can look forward to a 70 to 80-day period before feeling a significant decrease in the heat. So, while the Suhail star brings hope, patience is still the name of the game. 

In the meantime, staying cool is key. 

Abu Dhabi offers lots of indoor activities to help you escape the relentless sun, from appreciating art, to theme parks and fantastic restaurant choices. If you’re more of an outdoor activity person despite the heat (first, kudos) don’t feel left out because there is actually plenty to do en plein air in the summer too; from cultural attractions to the best beach clubs going. 

If you ever feel down in the dumps about the heat, the highest temperature ever recorded in the UAE was a scorching 52.1ºC in July 2002. 

So, the next time you see your car’s thermometer hitting astronomical numbers, remember, it’s got nothing on that official record at least.