With almost everyone staring at their screens all the time, many are turning their gaze to the desert to wind down and get in touch with the natural world. If you’re looking for an opportunity to look up instead of down, stargazing in UAE is the perfect activity to do.
Below you’ll find a list of the best stargazing spots in UAE besides the basic gear you’ll need for such a spectacular experience.
The best stargazing spots in UAE:
- Shuweihat Island
The island is quite far from major cities in the UAE, on the border with Saudi Arabia, and on the western border of the country. The fact that it is remotely situated from Dubai (almost a three-hour drive) ensures that the sky is solely starry illuminated. No city lights will interfere with the stars, nor will city buzz interfere with the sound of the sea making it one of the best stargazing spots in UAE.
Don’t forget to fuel up your 4×4 before you embark on your journey of stargazing in UAE!
- Al Quaa Milky Way Spot
In the middle of the Abu Dhabi desert and an hour and a half drive from the capital, Al Quaa is said to be the darkest place in the whole UAE. Also known as the Razeen Desert, the area is one of the best stargazing spots in UAE, for being located near the Rub Al Khali which has no light pollution whatsoever. If you’re looking for unmatched stargazing in UAE experience, the view of the Milky Way in such a pitch-black spot is your go.
- Hatta
Also one of the best stargazing spots in UAE, especially the southern part towards the Oman border where the Galactic Center of the Milky Way rises and sets. The deeper you go into the mountains, the better stargazing areas you’ll find. Add to that, the incredible view of the Hajar Mountains, the well-serviced accommodations, and the outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and biking all are things you can enjoy besides stargazing in UAE ‘s enclave of Dubai; the latter is the cherry on top!
- Liwa Oasis
Located in Al Rub Al Khali, Liwa Oasis is one of the best stargazing spots in UAE. It has all the features that qualify for a great stargazing camp. The large dunes in the oasis in addition to the Moreeb dune (i.e. the tallest dune in the UAE) all provide extra safari activities besides stargazing. Whether you’re looking for a basic sleeping tent experience or a luxury stay at a resort, Liwa Oasis delivers!
- Al Khatim Desert
Stargazing in UAE, especially in Al Khatim desert – located west of Abu Dhabi – comes with several outdoor activities that maximize the fun and adventure. Dune bashing and skiing are regularly enjoyed in the area, camping amid the Bedouin community is another, and memorable, quiet stargazing moments under the starlit sky is just the right way to wrap up the day.
Whatever stargazing spots in UAE you’ll be hitting, you’ll have to be equipped with the basics:
- telescope
- binoculars
- flashlight
- portable power
- thermos
- snacks
- tent
Get Your Stargazing gear from SEARUSH