Rare Astronomical Event Expected on Arafat Day as Sun Aligns Over Kaaba

A rare astronomical phenomenon is expected to occur on one of Islam’s holiest days this year, when the Sun is predicted to position itself directly above the Kaaba in Makkah.

According to astronomers, the event is expected to take place on May 27, 2026, corresponding to 9 Dhul Hijjah 1447 in the Islamic calendar, the Day of Arafat.

At that moment, the Sun will be directly overhead the Kaaba, causing shadows in Makkah to virtually disappear for a brief period. Meteorologists have warned that temperatures may reach as high as 47°C, urging pilgrims to take precautions, including staying hydrated and seeking immediate medical help if needed.

The Kaaba is located at approximately 21.4° north latitude. Due to this geographical position, the Sun passes directly over it twice a year when its apparent motion aligns between the equator and the Tropic of Cancer.

What makes this event notable is its coincidence with the Day of Arafat — a rare alignment that last occurred in 1993. Experts say such synchronization happens roughly every 33 years due to the difference between the lunar Hijri calendar and the solar Gregorian calendar.

Authorities Call It a Natural Phenomenon

Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has clarified that this is a normal and recurring astronomical event and does not directly cause abnormal temperature spikes.

The NCM stated that weather conditions depend on multiple climatic factors beyond the Sun’s position, including:

• Humidity
• Cloud cover
• Wind speed
• Atmospheric circulation

NCM spokesperson Hussein Al-Qahtani said the phenomenon is observed regularly each year and emphasized the need for scientific interpretation rather than linking it directly to extreme heat.

He added that the center uses modern technology, weather stations, and numerical forecasting models to provide accurate weather data and urged the public to rely on official sources for information.