UAE: How astronomers use the ancient Duroor calendar to predict today’s weather

The Duroor calendar, which uses stars as its guide to predict the weather, has existed for several centuries. Arabs had developed and perfected the system to understand the natural world and predict seasonal changes.

Today, UAE astronomers draw on this ancient wisdom to forecast contemporary weather patterns. Without telescopes or modern technology, these early navigators knew precisely when certain stars would rise and set, allowing them to align their activities with nature’s rhythms.

“Our ancestors calculated the timing of their activities based on the stars,” Jumaa Khalifa Ahmed bin Thalith Al Hamri, an Emirati heritage researcher, explained. “For instance, they determined when to go diving by observing the sky, setting a period to return home after a specified number of days. They understood that when the flag on their ship fluttered from north to south, it indicated that the diving season had begun.”

Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.

This ancient knowledge proved vital for survival. Bin Thalith Al Hamri described how weather changes and bird migration patterns were closely monitored. “The sounds of migrating birds were a sign that the weather was cooling, signalling the end of the diving season,” he noted.

Families prepared for these changes, ensuring their homes were ready for the return of their loved ones. “While the men were away, women would prepare the house and gather dates to store for winter,” he added.

In 1995, a dedicated team of researchers, including Bin Thalith Al Hamri, began documenting this ancient knowledge. “We worked with elders to collect information about how they used the Duroor system in their daily lives,” he recalled.

“After three years of gathering data and calculations, we created a comprehensive understanding of how these celestial patterns were essential for navigation and resource management.”

The Duroor system divides the year into segments of 10 days each, beginning with when the Suhail star is first spotted in the sky. Each segment offers insights into what to expect, helping the community prepare for various activities.

These segments are grouped into three main seasons of 100 days each—autumn, winter, and spring—while the remaining days, until the Suhail star reappears, signify summer.

The Duroor system is being revitalised today as a valuable tool for sustainable agriculture. Farmers are now using this ancient calendar to determine optimal planting and harvesting times, leveraging its insights to cultivate crops more effectively.

By observing the celestial patterns and understanding the seasonal cycles, modern Emirati farmers can make informed decisions that align with both tradition and environmental sustainability.

Understanding when to plant wheat, when to harvest, and how to maintain crops is essential knowledge for both farmers and engineers involved in agriculture. “It’s crucial to know that planting wheat in August is not advisable,” emphasised Bin Thalith Al Hamri.

“Coastal winds can disrupt the growing season. These winds, originating from the eastern coast near Khor Fakkan, significantly influence agricultural practices,” he added.

He further explained that the winds from the Levant region, referred to as the Suhail winds, also impact the timing of planting and harvesting. “By harnessing our heritage, we can enhance sustainability efforts,” he noted, highlighting a growing trend in the UAE, particularly in Sharjah, where agricultural initiatives are being promoted.

• Look: UAE astronomers capture stunning image of 'barely visible' galaxy with 40 billion stars