Catch the Milky Way: Take a stargazing trip from Dubai to Al Quaa for Dh120
Galactic views visible in UAE from May to October
DUBAI residents looking to escape the city lights and connect with the cosmos can now take part in a guided stargazing trip to Al Quaa Desert, Abu Dhabi – one of the UAE’s premier dark-sky locations.
With the Milky Way clearly visible from May to October, this is the ideal time for astronomy enthusiasts to witness the galaxy stretching across the sky.
The Dubai Astronomy Group will host a special Milky Way observation event on Saturday, June 21, 2025. The experience runs from 10pm to 2am, with expert-led sky tours, telescope viewings of planets like Jupiter and Saturn, and astrophotography workshops included in the itinerary. You don’t need to bring your own telescope – all equipment is provided.
Stargazing trip from Dubai
Priced at Dh120 per person, the event includes roundtrip transport from Dubai. The meeting point is Jebel Ali Metro Station, with buses departing at 6:30pm sharp. The three-hour journey includes breaks and gets you to the Al Quaa site in time for the cosmic showcase.
The evening begins with an introduction, followed by a sky-mapping session that explores star lore and ancient constellations. Photography tutorials cover everything from camera settings to composition techniques, culminating in a hands-on astrophotography session guided by professionals.
Getting there
Al Quaa Desert, located roughly 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi city and around three hours from Dubai, is considered one of the darkest places in the UAE. With minimal light pollution and wide open skies, it's a favourite among local and international stargazers. A 4x4 vehicle is essential if you're planning to drive independently.
Alternatively, similar dark-sky sites include Al Razeen Desert, Al Qudra (Dubai outskirts), Hatta, and Shuweihat Island. Each offers varying degrees of visibility and accessibility, but for organised sessions with full equipment and expert support, Al Quaa remains the top choice this weekend.