We already told you the Eta Aquarid meteor shower is heading our way, and now it’s time for the part you’ve actually been waiting for – the best spots to catch the show. The shower peaks on May 5 and May 6, head outside at around 2 AM local time and stay until dawn. That’s when meteor rates are at their highest. From the UAE, you can expect anywhere between 10 to 30+ meteors per hour, and there’s a good chance you’ll spot some Earthgrazers too. But just remember this year’s shower falls just 5 days after the Full Moon, so the sky will be a little brighter than ideal. Your best move is to position yourself so the Moon is blocked from your view and you can focus on the darker part of the sky. The brighter meteors and glowing trails will still absolutely show up. Now, on to the good stuff. Here are the best spots across the UAE to watch it all unfold.
If the stars, moon & space are your thing, here is UAE’s 2026 Astronomical Calendar – 12 Event Left That You Can’t-Miss!
1. Al Quaa Milky Way Spot – Abu Dhabi
This one has earned its nickname. Al Quaa is officially the darkest spot in the entire UAE, which makes it basically the gold standard for stargazing in this country. You’ll need a 4×4 to get out there since it’s deep in the desert, but the payoff is a sky that genuinely takes your breath away. Plug these coordinates into Google Maps and you’re good to go: 23.604633, 54.750256.
2. Shuweihat Island – Abu Dhabi
Yes, it’s about a four-hour drive from Dubai, but if you’re up for making a proper night of it, Shuweihat Island delivers. By day it’s all salt flats and quiet coastal scenery; by night, the stars absolutely come out to play. Pack a 4×4, bring your snacks and blankets, and enjoy one of the most peaceful stargazing settings in the country, right by the water.
3. Al Qudra – Dubai
If you want something closer to home, Al Qudra is one of Dubai’s most reliable spots for a night under the stars. The trick is to push past the lakes and cycling tracks to get further away from the city glow. You can absolutely stargaze with the naked eye, but if you’ve got a telescope or even a decent pair of binoculars, now’s the time to dust them off.
4. Wadi Shawka – Ras Al Khaimah
Less than an hour from Dubai, Wadi Shawka is a mountain escape that’s perfect if you want to pair your meteor shower with a bit of adventure. Get there early to claim a good spot, set up camp, and settle in for a night of crisp mountain air and a sky full of shooting stars. It’s the kind of night that makes you wonder why you don’t do this more often.
5. Al Sadeem Astronomy Centre – Abu Dhabi
If you’d rather have someone else do the star-pointing for you, Al Sadeem Astronomy Centre in Al Wathbah is the one. They run guided night tours with smart telescopes. So you actually know what you’re looking at. It’s perfect for first-timers or anyone who wants a more structured experience. Head to their website for details on bookings and timings.
Extra Pro Tips: The Best Way To Travel Into The Desert
Before you head out, here are a few essentials to make your stargazing adventure safe and enjoyable:
- Go with a group and take two vehicles, just in case
- Let someone know your route before you out
- Bring water, snacks, and basic supplies
- Check your fuel, tires, and flashlight batteries
- Use red flashlights to protect your night vision
- Avoid loud music and bright lights (being respectful of others around you is cool, don’t forget)
Dos & Don’ts Of UAE’s Darkets Spots
Besides the very obvious “Do Not Litter,” here are some handy tips to keep in mind:
- Safety First: Avoid full Moon nights. Don’t go off-roading alone or in cars that cannot handle desert sand. Be visible to other campers around you so that you are not put in harm’s way by their cars or 4X4. And keep in mind that this is a desert, so that means there are no bathrooms nearby. If you are setting up a campfire, please be knowledgeable on basic fire safety and barbecue set up rules and equipment.
- Flashlights and Floodlights: Carry them for nighttime activities and to light your walking paths. But please do not use these lights to disturb other campers in the vicinity.
- Choose a Serene Spot: Try to get as far away from the main road as possible. To avoid noise and car headlights ruining your natural ambitions.
- Pack Light and Responsibly: Dispose of all of your trash properly, please!
- Essentials: Water, food, warm clothes, and a blanket. And anything else cosy you can think of to make this a comfortable stargazing experience for you.
- Early Arrivals: Set up early, be mindful of others, and switch off car lights.
See You Under The Stars
This is one of those experiences that reminds you how incredible it is to actually be on a planet. Save the date, pack the car, and get ready. The Eta Aquarids are coming, and this time, you know exactly where to be.
