UAE is known for various activities, and stargazing is definitely one of them. And if you love stars, planets, galaxies and are crazy about astronomy, then here are five perfect spots in the UAE that will provide you with the best stargazing experience.
1. Al Thuraya Astronomy Centre
Al Thuraya Astronomy Centre is located on the outskirts of Dubai, in the middle of Mushrif Park, to be precise. And if you are into astronomy and love space, then this place is perfect for you. It has one of the largest telescopes in the region and is a great spot to watch celestial events. You can book a session online and learn how to use a telescope to observe the night sky. Besides this, it also offers a solar observation experience for those who want to see Sunspots and Solar flares.
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2. Sharjah Centre for Astronomy and Space Sciences
Nestled in Sharjah, this centre opened in 2015 as a small observatory with one telescope. However, with time, it has grown to include two more. So now you observe the galaxies, stars, planets, sun and moon at this centre. It is also actively involved in space research. So, you have to check this one out too.
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3. Rub Al Khali Desert
Located amid the UAE and stretching into Saudi Arabia, Oman and Yemen, the Rub Al Khali is the world’s largest sea of sand. Known as the Empty Quarter, it has numerous stargazing spots. If you want to go for a stargazing activity here, you can contact an Astro group that organises such activities or a tour company.
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4. Hatta
Nestled on the outskirts of Dubai- the Hajjar mountains in Hatta is again a great spot for stargazing. The area has a lot of light, but if you go deep into the mountains, you can find good stargazing spots. And the best thing about Hatta is that you have various places to stay and a lot of activities to do.
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5. The Al Quaa Milky Way spot
If you want to see stars naturally, away from the hustle-bustle of the city, then this one is your spot. The ‘Al Quaa Milky Way spot’ is so famous it has its location tag, along with pictures taken by stargazers, in Google Maps. It is around two hours from Abu Dhabi dessert and is also one of the darkest places in the UAE’s night sky.
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