A rare total solar eclipse will cross five continents on August 12, 2026, and the Arab world is in for an exceptional astronomical spectacle.

Arab Weather - In a rare astronomical event expected to attract the attention of millions around the world, August 12, 2026 will witness a total solar eclipse spanning five major continents in a long and unprecedented path this decade.

Path of the 2026 solar eclipse across the world

According to astronomical studies conducted by specialists at Arab Weather, the total eclipse will begin in northeastern Russia, then cross areas of the Arctic Ocean, passing through Iceland and parts of western Europe, before extending to the Atlantic Ocean, reaching areas of North America.

This geographical extent is one of the longest eclipse paths in recent years, giving the phenomenon great scientific and observational importance for astronomers and amateur astronomers.

Viewership of the solar eclipse in the Arab world

Although the path of totality does not pass over most Arab countries, the Arab countries located in the west of the African continent will witness a partial eclipse to varying degrees, as follows:

• Algeria: Coverage rate reaches 96%
• Rabat (Morocco): Coverage rate reaches 88.31%
• Tunisia: Coverage rate close to 50%
• Nouakchott (Mauritania): Coverage rate reaches 46.16%

The importance of the astronomical event

The solar eclipse in August 2026 represents an important scientific opportunity to observe the interaction of the moon's shadow with the Earth's surface, and to study the light and thermal changes associated with the phenomenon, in addition to being a rare visual event for astronomy enthusiasts around the world.

This eclipse is expected to receive extensive coverage from astronomical observatories and global media outlets due to its impact spanning five continents and the varying rates of observation across different regions of the world.