Total Solar Eclipse on Wednesday Not Visible in Saudi Arabia

Jeddah, August 11, 2026 — The Jeddah Astronomy Society confirmed that a total solar eclipse will occur on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, but it will not be visible from Saudi Arabia or any Arab country in its totality. According to Majed Abu Zahra, Head of the Jeddah Astronomy Society, the total eclipse will be visible from parts of Russia, Greenland, Iceland, northern Spain, and part of Portugal, with maximum totality lasting approximately two minutes and 18 seconds. Other regions will experience a partial eclipse.

Context and Background

Solar eclipses occur when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, casting a shadow on our planet. A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon completely covers the Sun, revealing the Sun’s outer atmosphere, the corona. The Jeddah Astronomy Society, a leading Saudi astronomical organization, regularly monitors and reports on celestial events to promote scientific awareness in the Kingdom. This announcement aligns with Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advancing astronomy and science education, as part of its Vision 2030 goals.

Abu Zahra provided precise timings for the global event: the eclipse will begin at 15:34 GMT, with totality starting at 16:58, reaching its peak at 17:46, and ending at 18:34. The partial eclipse will conclude globally at 19:57 GMT. These timings are crucial for astronomers and enthusiasts worldwide to plan observations.

Key Details

The path of totality will cross several countries, offering a spectacular view to those in the right locations. In northern Spain and Portugal, observers will witness the Moon fully blocking the Sun for just over two minutes. Meanwhile, a partial eclipse will be visible from parts of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Mauritania, Libya, and other areas of northern and western Africa. Abu Zahra emphasized that the total eclipse will not be visible from Saudi Arabia, nor will it be visible in totality from any Arab country. This distinction is important for residents in the region who might otherwise expect to see a full eclipse.

For those in Saudi Arabia, no part of the eclipse will be visible, as the event occurs during daylight hours but the alignment does not favor the region. The Jeddah Astronomy Society urges the public to rely on official sources for accurate information and to avoid misinformation circulating on social media.

Implications and Impact

While Saudi Arabia will not experience this eclipse, the event highlights the importance of astronomical research and international collaboration. The Jeddah Astronomy Society’s timely announcement demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s active role in global scientific discourse. The Kingdom has invested in astronomy through initiatives like the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology and the Saudi Space Commission, fostering innovation and education. Events like this inspire young Saudis to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), contributing to a knowledge-based economy.

Globally, solar eclipses provide unique opportunities for scientists to study the Sun’s corona and test theories. The 2026 eclipse will be monitored by researchers worldwide, with data contributing to our understanding of solar dynamics. For Saudi Arabia, the absence of visibility does not diminish the significance; rather, it underscores the importance of global cooperation in astronomy.

Vision 2030 Alignment

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 emphasizes diversification and the development of a vibrant society. By promoting scientific literacy and supporting institutions like the Jeddah Astronomy Society, the Kingdom nurtures curiosity and innovation among its youth. The society’s efforts to educate the public about celestial events align with the Vision’s goals of enhancing quality of life and fostering a knowledge-based economy. As Saudi Arabia continues to advance in space and astronomy, it solidifies its position as a leader in science and technology on the global stage. The Jeddah Astronomy Society remains dedicated to keeping the public informed and engaged with the wonders of the universe.

20 Questions

Q1. What did the Jeddah Astronomy Society announce?

A1. The Jeddah Astronomy Society announced that a total solar eclipse will occur on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, but it will not be visible from Saudi Arabia or any Arab country in totality.

Q2. Who is the head of the Jeddah Astronomy Society?

A2. Majed Abu Zahra is the head of the Jeddah Astronomy Society. He provided detailed information about the eclipse’s visibility and timings.

Q3. Where will the total solar eclipse be visible?

A3. The total eclipse will be visible from parts of Russia, Greenland, Iceland, northern Spain, and part of Portugal. Other areas will experience a partial eclipse.

Q4. How long will the maximum totality last?

A4. The maximum totality will last approximately two minutes and 18 seconds. This duration is typical for total solar eclipses.

Q5. What are the global timings of the eclipse?

A5. The eclipse begins at 15:34 GMT, totality starts at 16:58, peaks at 17:46, ends at 18:34, and the partial eclipse ends globally at 19:57 GMT.

Q6. Will the eclipse be visible in Saudi Arabia?

A6. No, the total eclipse will not be visible from Saudi Arabia. No part of the eclipse will be visible from the Kingdom.

Q7. Will any Arab country see the total eclipse?

A7. No, the total eclipse will not be visible in totality from any Arab country. However, a partial eclipse will be visible from parts of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Mauritania, Libya, and other areas.

Q8. What is a total solar eclipse?

A8. A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon completely covers the Sun, revealing the Sun’s outer atmosphere, the corona. It is a rare and spectacular astronomical event.

Q9. Why is the Jeddah Astronomy Society’s announcement important?

A9. It provides accurate information to the public, prevents misinformation, and promotes scientific awareness in Saudi Arabia, aligning with Vision 2030’s educational goals.

Q10. What should residents in Saudi Arabia do during the eclipse?

A10. Residents in Saudi Arabia will not see the eclipse, so no special precautions are needed. They can follow updates from official sources like the Jeddah Astronomy Society.

Q11. How does this eclipse contribute to science?

A11. Solar eclipses allow scientists to study the Sun’s corona and test theories. Data collected during the 2026 eclipse will contribute to solar research worldwide.

Q12. What is the role of the Jeddah Astronomy Society?

A12. The Jeddah Astronomy Society monitors celestial events, educates the public, and promotes astronomy in Saudi Arabia. It is a key scientific organization in the Kingdom.

Q13. What are the timings in local Saudi time?

A13. The eclipse occurs during daylight hours in Saudi Arabia, but it will not be visible. The global timings are in GMT; local Saudi time is GMT+3.

Q14. Which countries in Africa will see a partial eclipse?

A14. Parts of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Mauritania, Libya, and other areas of northern and western Africa will experience a partial eclipse.

Q15. How can people safely view a solar eclipse?

A15. People should use specialized solar filters or eclipse glasses. Never look directly at the Sun without proper protection, as it can cause eye damage.

Q16. What is the maximum duration of totality?

A16. The maximum duration of totality is approximately two minutes and 18 seconds. This is the longest period when the Sun is completely covered.

Q17. Will the eclipse affect daily life in Saudi Arabia?

A17. No, the eclipse will not be visible in Saudi Arabia, so it will not affect daily life. It is a global event that will be observed elsewhere.

Q18. How does Saudi Arabia support astronomy?

A18. Saudi Arabia supports astronomy through institutions like the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology and the Saudi Space Commission, fostering research and education.

Q19. What is the significance of the eclipse path?

A19. The path of totality determines where the total eclipse is visible. It crosses specific regions, offering a unique experience to those in its path.

Q20. Where can I find more information about the eclipse?

A20. More information can be found through official sources such as the Jeddah Astronomy Society and the Saudi Press Agency. Always rely on verified sources.

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