Where to see the Milky Way in UAE this weekend
Al Quaa Desert event offers immersive night-sky experience
DUBAI: Stargazers across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are in for a celestial treat, as the Milky Way becomes visible once again over the country’s skies.
From May until October, the galaxy can be spotted with the naked eye in the right conditions – no telescope required. However, the bright lights and hazy skies of the cities often mask the dazzling view.
For the clearest sightings, astronomy experts recommend heading to remote areas with low humidity and minimal light pollution, especially during the new moon phase.
The Dubai Astronomy Group suggests several spots across the Emirates where the night sky reveals its wonders in full glory.
Whether you’re a seasoned astrophotographer or just curious about the cosmos, these locations promise an awe-inspiring experience.
Al Quaa Desert
Located around 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi, the Al Quaa Desert is one of the darkest areas in the UAE – making it a premier location for viewing the Milky Way. Easily found on Google Maps (23.604633, 54.750256), it’s accessible with a 4×4 vehicle and desert driving skills.
On Saturday, 21 June 2025, the Dubai Astronomy Group will host a special Milky Way observation event at Al Quaa. The session runs from 10pm to 2am and includes sky mapping, astrophotography workshops, and telescope-assisted deep-sky viewing. Tickets cost Dh120 per person, including transport from Jebel Ali Metro Station in Dubai. Buses depart at 6:30pm sharp.
The programme features professional astronomers, practical astrophotography sessions, and high-powered telescope viewings of celestial objects including Jupiter’s moons and Saturn’s rings.
Al Qudra Desert
Just a short drive from Dubai, the Al Qudra Desert is a favourite among stargazing groups. Its relative proximity to the city makes it a convenient option for an impromptu night under the stars. While not as dark as Al Quaa, Al Qudra’s vast dunes and open skies offer a great view of the galaxy when timed right – especially during new moon weekends.
Regular events are held here by the Dubai Astronomy Group, but the area is open to all and free to access. Bring your own telescope or simply lie back and enjoy the stars.
Shuweihat Island
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Shuweihat Island in the far west of Abu Dhabi delivers stunning views both day and night. Known for its salt flats and dramatic rock formations, it’s a four-hour drive from Dubai. The remote nature of the location makes it ideal for spotting the Milky Way in near-total darkness.
A 4×4 vehicle is strongly recommended, and visitors should come prepared for a quiet, isolated night. Its scenic landscape also makes it a photographer’s dream.
Hatta
Located in the Hajar Mountains, Hatta is about 90 minutes from Dubai and offers a natural backdrop for stargazing. While there may still be some residual light from nearby areas, the mountainous terrain and open skies make it a scenic and relatively dark option for observing the Milky Way.
It’s a great spot for those looking to combine a weekend getaway with a bit of astronomy, and the mild mountain breeze is a welcome change from the desert heat.
As the stargazing season kicks off, these locations across the UAE provide the ideal setting to witness the vast expanse of our galaxy.
With the Milky Way arching across the night sky and minimal equipment required, there’s never been a better time to head out into the darkness and look up.