UAE: How and where to watch 2025’s final and brightest Beaver Supermoon this week
Desert spots and observatories offer the clearest view across the Emirates
DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is preparing for a spectacular celestial event on Wednesday, November 5, when the Beaver Supermoon – the year’s largest and brightest full moon – will illuminate the night sky.
This marks the last supermoon of 2025, giving residents and visitors a perfect chance to witness one of nature’s most dazzling lunar shows.
According to the Emirates Astronomical Society, the moon will reach its perigee – the closest point to Earth in its orbit – at about 356,980 kilometres, making it appear nearly 14 per cent larger and 30 per cent brighter than a typical full moon. The event will be visible across the UAE from early evening through the night, provided the skies remain clear.
For astronomy enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone fond of serene evenings outdoors, the Beaver Supermoon promises an unforgettable experience. Here’s what makes it special and how to see it best across the Emirates.
What makes it a supermoon?
A “supermoon” occurs when the moon reaches its full phase at the same time it orbits closest to Earth. Because the moon’s path is slightly elliptical rather than perfectly circular, its distance from Earth varies between around 356,000 km at perigee and 406,000 km at apogee.
When these two events – the full moon and the perigee – coincide, the moon looks subtly larger and noticeably brighter. While the difference may be modest to the naked eye, the effect becomes striking when seen near the horizon, especially as the moon rises just after sunset.
Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Society, said that this phenomenon, also called a “perigee full moon,” occurs several times a year but only a few reach this level of brightness. Despite its stronger gravitational pull, which can cause slightly higher tides, it poses no impact or risk to Earth.
Why is it called the Beaver Moon?
The term “Beaver Moon” has roots in ancient North American traditions. It referred to the time when beavers began preparing for winter – building lodges and gathering food before waterways froze. Early settlers used the lunar cycles to track seasonal changes, and November’s full moon became associated with these industrious animals.
Today, the Beaver Moon simply marks the November full moon, and when it aligns with the moon’s perigee, it earns the title of “Beaver Supermoon.” This fusion of tradition and science makes it both culturally meaningful and visually spectacular.
Where and when to see it in the UAE?
The Beaver Supermoon will be most visible on the night of Wednesday, November 5, starting just after sunset and lasting throughout the night. The peak brightness will occur in the early hours of November 6.
For the best viewing experience, choose a location far from city lights. Among the UAE’s top stargazing spots are Al Qudra Desert in Dubai, Jebel Hafit Desert Park in Al Ain, Wadi Shawka in Ras Al Khaimah, and Al Sadeem Observatory near Al Wathba in Abu Dhabi.
In Dubai, Dubai Astronomy Group will host a public observation session at Al Awir Second Park from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, featuring telescope views, moon photography, and talks about the lunar event. Tickets range from Dh100 to Dh120.