A rare astronomical event is set to coincide with one of Islam’s holiest days this year as the sun will align directly above the Kaaba on the Day of Arafat, a phenomenon astronomers say occurs only once every 33 years.
According to astronomers and Saudi officials, the alignment will take place at noon on May 27, 2026, corresponding to the ninth day of Dhul Hijjah 1447H.
At the exact moment of alignment, the sun will stand directly above the Kaaba in Makkah, causing shadows to disappear completely around the holy site.
The event normally occurs twice each year because of Makkah’s geographical position near latitude 21.4 degrees north, where the sun appears to move between the equator and the Tropic of Cancer.
However, this year’s occurrence has drawn particular attention because it coincides with the Day of Arafat, one of the most sacred days in the Islamic calendar.
Astronomers said the same overlap last occurred in 1993.
Astronomers explain 33-year cycle behind rare phenomenon
Experts say the rare timing results from differences between the Islamic lunar calendar and the Gregorian solar calendar.
The Hijri calendar is approximately 10 to 11 days shorter than the Gregorian year, causing Islamic dates to shift gradually across seasons and solar positions.
Astronomers explained that it takes roughly 33 years for the lunar cycle to realign with the same solar dates and astronomical conditions.
The alignment above the Kaaba has historically helped Muslims around the world determine the direction of Qibla, the direction of prayer toward Makkah.
During the precise moment of alignment, people in many parts of the world can identify Qibla accurately by observing the sun’s position.
Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Meteorology stressed that the event is a normal astronomical phenomenon and does not automatically lead to extreme weather conditions.
The centre said climate conditions depend on multiple factors including humidity, cloud cover, wind movement and air masses rather than sunlight angle alone.
Saudi officials urge public to rely on official weather information
Hussein Al Qahtani, spokesperson for the National Center for Meteorology, said the alignment is monitored every year as part of regular astronomical observations.
He added that public claims linking the event to unprecedented heat levels required “scientific clarification.”
Officials said the centre relies on advanced forecasting systems, observation stations and modern climate technology to monitor weather conditions during the Hajj season.
Saudi authorities are also preparing for millions of pilgrims expected to gather in Makkah and Arafat during Hajj 2026.
The Day of Arafat marks the peak of the annual pilgrimage and holds immense religious importance for Muslims worldwide.
Religious scholars and astronomers alike described the coincidence of the alignment and the Day of Arafat as both scientifically notable and spiritually significant for many believers.
