Saudi Arabia will witness its first total solar eclipse in nearly a century on August 2, 2027, attracting scientists, tourists and skywatchers for a rare celestial spectacle.
WEBDESK – SHARJAH NEWS
Saudi Arabia is preparing for one of the most remarkable astronomical events in its modern history as the Kingdom gets ready to witness its first total solar eclipse in nearly a century on August 2, 2027.
The eclipse is expected to be one of the longest total solar eclipses of the 21st century, with parts of western and southern Saudi Arabia experiencing almost six minutes of daytime darkness—significantly longer than the typical two to three minutes seen during most total eclipses.
According to the Saudi Space Agency, the city of Abha could experience nearly six minutes of totality, while Jeddah and nearby areas along the Red Sea coast are expected to witness about five minutes and 50 seconds of complete darkness.
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, completely blocking the Sun’s disk. During totality, daylight briefly gives way to twilight-like conditions, temperatures can drop, and bright stars and planets may become visible in the daytime sky.
The eclipse’s path of totality will stretch across several major Saudi cities, including Makkah, Jeddah, Taif, Al Baha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan and Najran, making the event accessible to millions of residents and visitors. Areas outside the path will still experience a partial eclipse, with some locations expected to see up to 80% of the Sun obscured.
Astronomers say the unusually long duration offers a rare opportunity to study the Sun’s corona, its faint outer atmosphere that is normally hidden by the Sun’s intense brightness. The extended viewing period will provide scientists with valuable research opportunities while allowing skywatchers more time to experience the phenomenon.
The Saudi Space Agency believes the eclipse could also boost tourism, positioning the Kingdom as one of the world’s top destinations for eclipse viewing. Similar celestial events in the United States in 2017 and 2024 attracted millions of visitors, generating significant economic activity for local businesses and hospitality sectors.
Neighboring Egypt is expected to witness the point of maximum eclipse duration, further highlighting the region as a prime destination for astronomy enthusiasts.
Officials are urging the public to observe the eclipse safely by using certified eclipse glasses or specially designed solar filters. Looking directly at the Sun without proper eye protection—even during a partial eclipse—can cause permanent eye damage.
With just under a year remaining before the event, interest is expected to grow among scientists, educators, photographers, travel operators and astronomy enthusiasts across the Middle East and beyond.
