As the UAE gears up for its summer solstice, the country will experience its longest day of the year, lasting an impressive 13 hours and 48 minutes, from June 21 to June 22. According to the Astronomy and Space Sciences department, this marks the onset of summer in the region.

When and What is the Summer Solstice?

The summer solstice typically falls on June 21 each year. However, in 2024, the solstice will occur slightly earlier, on June 20 at 20:51 UTC, making it the earliest since 1796. Despite this global shift, the UAE will still see its longest day on June 21. Interestingly, the summer solstice date is expected to continue to shift earlier in upcoming leap years.

Transition to Astronomical Summer

The third week of June signifies the transition into 'astronomical summer' in the UAE. This period begins with the summer solstice when the Earth's axis tilts closest to the sun, resulting in the longest day of the year.

Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomy Society and a member of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences, explains the phenomenon: "During the summer solstice, the sun is perpendicular to the Tropic of Cancer at its northernmost position. This causes the shadow to be absent at noon in these areas, including the southern regions of the UAE. The meridian shadow disappears, and throughout the Arabian Peninsula, the shortest meridian shadow is observed in the northern half of the Earth."

Weather Expectations During the Solstice

Temperatures during the solstice are expected to be quite high, ranging from 41ºC to 43ºC during the day and 26ºC to 29ºC at night. Some areas may even see temperatures exceed 50ºC.

The first half of summer, from June 21 to August 10, will be characterized by generally dry weather. Hot and dry winds are anticipated in the northern and northwestern parts of the UAE, causing dust and sand to blow across the country. These hot air waves will likely raise temperatures by at least four degrees.

In contrast, the second half of summer, from August 11 to the autumn equinox on September 23, will bring higher humidity levels along with continued high temperatures. Humid winds will sweep through the country, leading to the formation of cumulus clouds over mountain highlands and surrounding areas, which may result in thunderstorms.