Star light star bright: Popular stargazing spots in the UAE
Stargazing is a popular activity in the UAE. Residents flock to specific venues to get the best possible views, whether it is a solar eclipse, meteor shower or simple stargazing. Now that space exploration is a top priority for the UAE government, and there are multiple ongoing missions, interest in all things space has grown recently. If you enjoy watching the far-away glittering stars, read on as we present the list of top places for stargazing in the UAE.
LIST OF TOP PLACES FOR STARGAZING IN THE UAE
Many tourist spots in the UAE, mainly those in Dubai, are known globally. But other places in the country also have a distinct appeal. The massive desert stretches and the Hatta Mountains come to mind immediately when you talk about clear skies. But that’s not all! Let’s look at some of the most popular spots for stargazing in the UAE.
AL SADEEM ASTRONOMY
A private company operating in the UAE capital, Al Sadeem Astronomy specialises in deep-sky research, space awareness and observational astronomy. It offers guided private stargazing experiences and is the only authorised distributor of the Vaonis smart telescopes in the region.
Each trip begins with a 10 to 15-minute session covering the journey of Al Sadeem and UAE’s space programme. Visitors can then head to the Observatory for perhaps the most exciting part of the journey – using traditional and smart telescopes to view the moon, planets, stars and other cosmic objects. The resident expert can also answer any questions that you may have about astronomy.
- Location: Al Sadeem Observatory, Al Wathba South, Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-56-385-1439
AL THURAYA ASTRONOMY CENTRE
Next up on our list of top places for stargazing in the UAE is Al Thuraya Astronomy Centre. One of the favourite things to do in Mushrif Park for many visitors is heading to the centre, which has one of the largest telescopes in the region. You can book a session at The Observatory M46 for stargazing or observing solar flares. A 15-minute session costs AED 20.
- Location: Al Thuraya Astronomy Center, Mushrif Park
- Contact: +971-4-221-6603
HATTA
Rugged mountains are definitely not the most formal stargazing place in the UAE. But this may be the best if you are up for a challenge. A trail deep into the mountains is needed to find the best stargazing spots. Due to increased light pollution, it is said that only the southern parts of the mountains (towards the Oman border) are conducive for stargazing.
You can go camping in Hatta and wander off to the mountains for stargazing.
SHARJAH CENTRE FOR ASTRONOMY AND SPACE SCIENCES
Established in 2015, this observatory has three telescopes you can use to examine the stars, planets, sun, moon and galaxies. It is an excellent place to observe and learn about our vast universe and its mysteries.
- Location: Maleha Road, Sharjah
- Contact: +971-6-516-6000
THE AL QUAA MILKY WAY SPOT
This is one of the top places for stargazing in the UAE, especially if you prefer to see stars naturally. Located over an hour and a half from the capital city, it is one of the darkest spots in the country, with little to no light pollution. So, as a result, you can get astonishing sightings of celestial objects.
SHUWEIHAT ISLAND
This stargazing spot in the UAE is located near the UAE-Saudi Arabia border. Away from the big cities, the biggest advantage of this site is that there is no light pollution. It is close to the town of Al Ruwais and Sir Baniyas Island is off the coast. If you are planning a visit, 4×4 cars should be preferred.
RUB AL KHALI DESERT
Also known as the Empty Quarter, Rub Al Khali cuts across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Yemen and Oman national borders. Away from the major cities, it is a perfect stargazing spot in the UAE. Many astronomy groups and tour companies organise stargazing tours in the region.
FAQS
WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE ABOUT STARGAZING IN THE UAE AND ASTRONOMY IN GENERAL?
You can become a member of Dubai Astronomy Group for discounted courses on astronomy. DAG members can also attend events and workshops on the subject.
WHICH ARE THE BEST PLACES FOR CAMPING IN THE UAE?
Want to take a break from the everyday grind? Here’s a list of the best camping spots in the UAE you can visit.
This ends our list of top places for stargazing in the UAE. While the country has the most incredible man-made structures, nature can still astound you. So, if you are interested in astronomy and space, visiting any of the places mentioned above would be fascinating. One can also go desert camping in the UAE to spend a night under the stars.
Keep following MyBayut to learn about the best tourist spots in the UAE.
