best-stargazing-spots-dubai

Tired of the city lights? Escape at these 10 top stargazing spots in Dubai!

Listening to Myles Smith’s “Stargazing,” I can’t help but feel connected to the cosmos when he sang: “You and I stargazing, intertwining souls.” There’s something magical about sharing those moments and realizing we were never strangers to the stars above. 

It’s a reminder that the universe has always been right there, waiting for us to look up. If you’re tired of the city lights and yearning for a cosmic escape, this article is your guide to the top stargazing spots in Dubai. 

Let’s take a look at these breathtaking locations, where the desert transforms into a celestial wonderland, where you can reconnect with the universe!

1. Al Qudra Desert

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Address: X8RW+85, Dubai 

Al Qudra Desert is a vast, untouched expanse of desert that is a stargazer’s paradise. Far from the city lights and noise pollution, this tranquil oasis provides an ideal setting for observing the stars. 

As darkness falls, the sky becomes a canvas of twinkling lights, revealing constellations and celestial bodies often obscured in urban areas. You’ll be able to see the Milky Way galaxy in all its glory and countless stars you never knew existed. 

2. Bab Al Shams

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Website: https://www.babalshams.com/experiences/pool-day

Address: Al Qudra Road, opposite Endurance City, Dubai 

Contact details: +97148096100

Bab Al Shams is a luxurious resort where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the night sky. Its isolation creates a perfect environment for stargazing, as there are minimal light pollutants to obscure the view of the celestial wonders above.

Inspired by traditional Bedouin settlements, Bab Al Shams blends into the surrounding environment. The rustic charm of the buildings, combined with the warm staff’s hospitality, creates a truly authentic Arabian experience.

3. Fossil Rock

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Website: https://www.visitsharjah.com/en/activities/nature/fossil-rock/

Address: 4RRM+QGW, Al Khatim, Sharjah 

Fossil Rock is nestled in the heart of the Al Marmoom Desert and offers a breathtaking escape from the city’s bustling lights. You’ll find yourself surrounded by rolling dunes, ancient rock formations, and a diverse array of desert flora and fauna.

While it’s located outside the city center, it’s still relatively easy to reach by car. And once you’re there, you’ll be rewarded with exceptional stargazing conditions, thanks to the remote location and minimal light pollution. You’ll be able to see countless stars.

4. The Empty Quarter

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Address: 7HMMMXRQ+2C, Al Zarraf, Abu Dhabi 

The Empty Quarter is a vast, desolate desert region that stretches across parts of Saudi Arabia, Oman, Yemen, and the United Arab Emirates. It is also known as the Rub al-Khali and is a place of unparalleled beauty and tranquility. 

The lack of artificial light pollution in this remote region means that the stars shine brighter and more vividly than anywhere else I’ve ever been. And if you’re lucky, you might even glimpse a shooting star or a meteor shower.

5. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

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Website: http://www.dm.gov.ae/

Address: Sharjah 

Contact details: +971800900

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve is a pristine sanctuary in the vast Arabian Desert. As you venture into the reserve, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking landscape of rolling dunes, acacia trees, and diverse wildlife. 

One of the highlights of my visit here is the opportunity to participate in guided astronomy tours. Expert astronomers will lead you through the night sky, pointing out celestial objects and sharing fascinating stories about the cosmos.

6. Al Sadeem Astronomy Centre

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Website: http://alsadeemastronomy.ae/

Address: Al Wathbah, Al-Wathba South, Abu Dhabi 

Contact details: +97126426007

Al Sadeem Astronomy Centre boasts a state-of-the-art observatory equipped with powerful telescopes. One of the things I love most about Al Sadeem is its commitment to making astronomy accessible to everyone. 

Their knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff is always on hand to guide visitors through the night sky and explain constellations, planets, and other astronomical phenomena. The center also offers planetarium shows, astronomy lectures, and hands-on activities. 

7. Hatta Dam

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Website: http://www.hattakayak.com/

Address: Hatta Dam, Dubai 

Contact details: +971566162111

Nestled amidst the Hajar Mountains, Hatta Dam is a serene reservoir surrounded by a desert landscape and minimal light pollution, creating an ideal environment for celestial observation.

For stargazers, Hatta Dam is a dream come true. The clear, dark skies provide unobstructed views of the Milky Way, planets, and constellations. You can even see shooting stars streaking across the heavens on a good night. 

8. Mleiha Archaeological Centre

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Website: http://discovermleiha.ae/

Address: Archeological Centre, Al Khatim, Sharjah 

Contact details: +97168021111

Operating hours: 9 AM–7 PM

At the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, I was blown away by its unique blend of history and astronomy. I explored ancient tombs and archaeological sites while the stargazing experience under the clear and vast night sky was unparalleled. 

Seeing constellations I’d never heard of and catching a glimpse of a shooting star in the tranquil desert setting was an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

9. Al Quaa Milky Way Spot

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Address: Unnamed Road, Abu Dhabi 

Al Quaa Milky Way Spot’s remote location provides a dark and clear night sky, perfect for stargazing and experiencing the magic of the Milky Way. Remember to bring binoculars or a small telescope to examine the celestial objects closely. 

The peaceful ambiance, with only the sound of the wind and occasional owl hoot, creates the ideal setting for relaxation and contemplation. It’s truly a place to connect with nature and be mesmerized by the vastness of the universe.

10. Bedouin Oasis Camp

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Website: https://www.bedouinoasis.org/

Address: Bedouin Oasis Camo Rd, Ras Al Khaimah 

Contact details: +971552284984

Dubai, known for its glitz and glamour, offers an unexpected escape: the Bedouin Oasis Camp. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by traditional tents adorned with colorful fabrics and comfortable cushions. 

The camp offers a glimpse into the nomadic lifestyle of the Bedouin people. Far from city lights, the night sky is a canvas of twinkling stars. With the help of knowledgeable guides, you can identify constellations, planets, and even meteor showers.