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

The Duroor system divides the year into segments of 10 days each, beginning with when the Suhail star is first spotted in the sky

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.”

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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.

“The Ruler of Sharjah has established farms to facilitate this movement, integrating traditional practices like the Duroor system into modern sustainability efforts,” he explained.

This ancient wisdom was brought to life during Duroor Nights , a unique desert camping experience that celebrated the Duroor system and its profound impact on Emirati life. Held at Wadi Modaynah Dam in Ras Al Khaimah on Saturday, November 16, this event was part of ongoing efforts to promote sustainability and cultural heritage in the UAE.

With zero light pollution, the clear night sky provided a stunning backdrop for stargazing. Attendees observed celestial wonders through telescopes, capturing images of stars and planets while learning about the Duroor system’s significance in Emirati culture.

As the sun set, participants gathered to safely observe its descent through specialised equipment. Mohammed Talafha, an astronomical observer, led this session, emphasising the importance of using protective filters. “The sun is one of the brightest objects in our sky, but it can also be dangerous to observe without proper precautions,” he explained.

As the night deepened, telescopes were set up to view the moon and stars. Attendees marvelled at the intricate details of lunar craters and the shimmering constellations above. The experience fostered a sense of community and shared purpose, as participants engaged in discussions about how modern practices can align with the wisdom of the past.

“By observing the Duroor, we reconnect with the rhythms of our natural environment. This event exemplifies how inherited traditions can guide us toward a more sustainable future,” said Rauda Al Falasi, Deputy Project Lead for the Year of Sustainability, echoing this sentiment.

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