The first meteor shower of the year is almost here – and trust me, you don’t want to miss this show! The Lyrid Meteor Shower is expected to light up the UAE skies in the early hours of Wednesday, April 23. Prepare yourself to see 10 to 20 meteors per hour if you find the right spot! This is one of the oldest known meteor showers, with records going back over 2,600 years. The meteors come from a trail of space dust left by Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher, and Earth passes through it every April. Even better? The Moon will be less than 40% full and won’t rise until around 2:03 am that night, meaning its glow won’t block your view during the best meteor-watching hours — right before dawn. Come with me, and I’ll take you around UAE to show you the best bests to see every detail on the sky!
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1. Al Quaa Milky Way Spot
Nicknamed the “Milky Way Spot” for a reason, Al Quaa is one of the darkest locations in the country – perfect for seeing meteors clearly with zero light pollution. It’s a bit of a trek into the desert (you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle), but once you’re there, it’s pure magic. Expect a jaw-dropping view of the night sky as the meteors zip across it. Coordinates: 23.604633, 54.75025
2. Shuweihat Island
Want to make a full day (and night) out of it? Head to the peaceful shores of Shuweihat Island. About a 4-hour drive from Dubai, this hidden gem offers dreamy views of salt flats during the day and clear skies by night – ideal for watching meteors streak across the stars. Bring a 4×4 for the off-road drive, and enjoy the silence, nature, and that unforgettable meteor shower.
3. Al Qudra
Just a short drive from Dubai, Al Qudra is a go-to for stargazers and campers in Dubai – and it’s also great for spotting the meteors! For the best view, go past the popular lakes and bike paths to find a quiet, dark spot away from the city lights. Even without high-tech gear, you’ll still see plenty of meteors, but if you’ve got a telescope or binoculars, you’re in for a real treat.
4. Wadi Shawka
If you like your stargazing with a side of adventure, Wadi Shawka is the place for you. Located less than an hour from Dubai, this scenic mountain area offers wide open skies and fresh air – perfect for lying back and spotting meteors overhead. Set up your tent early to claim your spot, then get ready for a peaceful night with nature’s own firework show.
5. Al Sadeem Astronomy Centre
For a more guided meteor shower experience, check out the Al Sadeem Astronomy Centre in Al Wathbah. Not only will you get a chance to spot the meteors, but the centre also offers telescope viewings and expert guidance to help you understand what you’re seeing. Whether you’re a space newbie or a full-on astronomy fan, this is a great place to soak up knowledge and catch the Lyrids in action. Visit their website for more info.
Final Tip: Don’t Forget These!
- Dress warmly – desert nights can get chilly
- Bring snacks, water, and a blanket
- Use a red flashlight to protect your night vision
- Be patient! The meteors come in bursts, not all at once
- Bring binoculars – you can see the meteors with your naked eyes, but if you can score a pair of binoculars, it’ll definitely take you a long way.
So mark your calendars for April 23, pick your favourite spot, and get ready to make a wish on a shooting star or twenty.
