How and where to watch the first supermoon of 2025 in UAE
Best viewing spots across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and beyond revealed
DUBAI – Stargazers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will be treated to a dazzling spectacle this month, as the first supermoon of 2025 rises in the night sky.
Known as the Hunter’s Moon, it will appear in full brilliance on Tuesday, October 7, and remain visibly full until October 9. The event marks the beginning of a busy celestial calendar for the remainder of the year, with further supermoons and meteor showers to follow.
The phenomenon occurs when the full moon coincides with its closest approach to Earth, known as perigee, making it appear larger and brighter than usual. This year’s October supermoon comes with an added highlight – a striking alignment with Saturn and Jupiter, offering a rare chance for observers in Dubai and across the UAE to see three of the solar system’s most dazzling bodies in close company.
What is the Hunter’s Moon?
The Hunter’s Moon is the name traditionally given to the full moon that follows the autumn harvest. Historically, its bright light helped hunters track game in the weeks after crops had been gathered. In 2025, the Hunter’s Moon will appear up to 14 percent larger and 30 percent brighter compared with when the moon is at its farthest point from Earth.
Although its actual size does not change, the so-called “moon illusion” makes it seem particularly striking when rising near the horizon. Observers will notice it looming larger against city skylines, trees and desert landscapes, especially just after sunset.
How will it appear?
The supermoon will rise in the eastern sky shortly after sunset on October 7 and reach its peak brightness through the night. By October 5, the moon will already be seen in close company with Saturn, while Jupiter will be visible nearby on the same evenings. The alignment makes this particular full moon one of the most eye-catching events of the year, viewable without any special equipment.
Astronomy groups recommend finding a location away from city light pollution for the clearest views. Even in urban areas such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, the supermoon will remain visible to the naked eye, though telescopes or binoculars will enhance details on the lunar surface.
When can it be seen?
The Hunter’s Moon will rise at dusk on Tuesday, October 7, appearing almost full until Thursday, October 9. The evenings immediately after sunset offer the best opportunity to experience the “moon illusion,” when it appears larger on the horizon.
Skywatchers should also look out for Saturn, appearing as a golden point of light near the moon, and Jupiter, glowing brightly nearby. These planets will be visible for much of the night, setting only in the early hours before dawn.
Where are the best spots?
Dubai Astronomy Group will host a special event at the University of Dubai, offering telescopes and guided sessions for enthusiasts.
For those exploring independently, several prime locations across the UAE are ideal for unobstructed views:
- Al Barsha Pond Park (Dubai): Open until 11.30pm, this family-friendly park offers pleasant surroundings for an evening stroll while observing the moon.
- Al Qudra Lakes (Dubai outskirts): A quieter location away from the skyline, ideal for stargazing, picnics or barbecues.
- Hatta (Dubai’s mountain enclave): Venturing further into the Hajar Mountains reduces light pollution and provides excellent views, with options to camp overnight.
- Jebel Ali Beach (Dubai): A coastal location where picnics and moonlit gatherings can be combined with stargazing.
- Kite Beach (Dubai): Popular for late-night walks, it offers clear sky views alongside restaurants open until midnight.
- The Viewing Point (Dubai Creek Harbour): A 70-metre walkway with scenic views of Downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa.
- Al Quaa Milky Way Spot (Abu Dhabi): About 90 minutes from the city, this desert location is renowned for clear night skies, perfect for supermoon watching.
What else is coming?
The October supermoon signals the start of an exciting stargazing season in the UAE. The Orionids meteor shower will peak on October 21 and 22, while another supermoon – the Beaver Moon – will rise on November 5, expected to be the largest of the year. The Leonids meteor shower follows on November 17 and 18, before the final supermoon of 2025, the Cold Moon, on December 4. The season concludes with the Geminids meteor shower on December 13 and 14, offering up to 120 meteors per hour.