Residents of the Northern Borders are familiar with "Al-Safri," a season that starts in early September and lasts about 27 to 40 days, marking the transition from summer heat to the milder weather of autumn, of which it is the first season. In the Arabian Peninsula it lasts around 27 days, ending on October 15 with the rise of the Al-Jabhah star in the east, the first major star to appear after Suhail.

The name, also given as "Al-Asyfar," is said to come either from people looking pale or yellowish because of seasonal illnesses, or from the yellow tint of the sun and dusty skies at this time of year.

Coinciding with the Suhail star season, the period brings noticeable weather swings: temperatures fall gradually while humidity climbs, making the air heavy and uncomfortable. Dawn grows cooler as the days pass, and colds, flu and allergies become more common.