Planet Earth reaches its aphelion, the farthest point from the sun

This picture taken on July 3, 2021 from Kuwait City shows a view of the sun and the sunspot lying in the solar active region "AR2835". (AFP)
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Updated 05 July 2021
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Planet Earth reaches its aphelion, the farthest point from the sun

  • Earth’s average distance from the sun is 93 million miles

JEDDAH: Planet Earth will reach its furthest point from the sun — its aphelion — on Monday, July 5 at 1:27 a.m. KSA time.

Earth’s aphelion comes in early July, two weeks after the summer solstice, when it will be 94,510,866 miles from the sun, compared to 94,507,635 miles last year.

Our planet orbits the sun in an oval shape called an ellipse, said the head of the Astronomical Society in Jeddah, Majed Abu Zahira.

The distance between planet earth and the sun does not change that much throughout the year: Earth’s average distance from the sun is 93 million miles. Earth’s tilt on its axis is the cause behind the seasonal changes. Slight changes in the tilt affect the seasons’ length and the amount of solar radiation on the earth’s surface.


Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage

The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. (SPA)
Updated 19 December 2025
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Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage

  • Festival now established as a premier annual event

AlUla: The Winter at Tantora Festival launched on Thursday in AlUla. It runs until Jan. 10 and presents a cultural season which celebrates the region’s rich civilizational, cultural, and historic legacy.

The festival’s program includes a wide array of cultural, artistic, and traditional activities, reported the Saudi Press Agency. 

Attractions include Old Town Nights, Shorfat Tantora, When Shadow Tracks Us, and the Al-Manshiyah Carnival.

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In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities.

In addition, there are guided tours of street art through the Old Town, special events commemorating the Year of Handicrafts, culinary experiences, and artistic and musical performances.

The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities. The modern festival honors this tradition by marking the onset of winter and the start of the planting season.

This year’s edition offers a range of experiences to celebrate heritage, genuine local culture, and traditional craftsmanship. 

As part of AlUla Moments, the Winter at Tantora Festival supports efforts to boost cultural and tourist engagement while enhancing the visitor experience.

The initiative reflects Saudi Vision 2030’s commitment to advancing cultural tourism and promoting the Kingdom’s historic landmarks.

The festival has established itself as one of AlUla’s premier annual events, consistently attracting both domestic and international audiences.