Moon meets Pleiades, marking end of summer, arrival of fall in Saudi Arabia

The arrival of fall is not only about the climate but about reconnecting with heritage

Last updated: September 14, 2025 | 10:53

1 MIN READ

Moon meets Pleiades, marking end of summer, arrival of fall in Saudi Arabia

X / SPA

Dubai: Fall has arrived in Saudi Arabia, ushering in cooler temperatures and relief from the punishing summer heat — a transition marked by an ancient astronomical event still observed today.

The phenomenon, known locally as qiran 19 (“conjunction 19”), occurs when the moon aligns with the Pleiades star cluster. For generations of Bedouins, the celestial sign has served as a seasonal marker, signalling the onset of rains and the growth of plants vital to grazing lands.

Also Read: Saudi Arabia: Mystical fog envelops highlands, turning summer into a scenic retreat

Also Read: Fog and rain turn Saudi Arabia's Al Mandaq mountains into summer spectacle

Also Read: Saudi Arabia braces for severe weather: Flash floods and hail expected

Also Read: New ferry link between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia to launch soon

“This season is a rest period for nature,” said Adnan Khalifa, a member of the local space and astronomy club in Arar. “It allows the land to rejuvenate, improving pasture quality for livestock.”

The change carries meaning beyond agriculture. Milder weather reduces energy use and invites people back outdoors, where social gatherings, family trips and traditional pastimes revive a sense of community. For many Saudis, the arrival of fall is not only about the climate but about reconnecting with heritage — and with each other.

Khitam Al AmirChief News Editor

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.

Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox

Up Next