Meteor shower to light up UAE skies: Here's where to watch the show

Another meteor shower is about to light up the UAE skies, with the Epsilon Perseids reaching their peak early Tuesday morning. While it might not have the same dazzle as August's Perseids, this September spectacle promises up to eight meteors per hour, visible to the naked eye.

For the best view, stargazers should head to a dark spot away from city lights and enjoy the clear night sky. Prime viewing times will be midnight Monday or the early hours of Tuesday, when the Perseus constellation rises higher.

Here are some of the top free spots to catch the meteor shower:

Rounds winding up Jebel Jais are illuminated at sunset. Envato

Jebel Jais

The UAE’s tallest mountain, located in Ras Al Khaimah, is a popular spot for stargazers thanks to its its year-round favorable weather. Overnight campers can also catch a spectacular sunrise the following morning. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for access.

The Milky Way as seen at the Al Quaa Milky Way Spot.AFP

Al Quaa Milky Way spot

Known as the darkest spot in the UAE, this area is about 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi, heading toward Al Ain, and far from city lights. A 4x4 is required due to the lack of proper roads, and desert driving experience is recommended.

Campers enjoy a lake-side stargazing session.Envato

Al Qudra

For those without a 4x4, Al Qudra is your go-to spot, easily reachable by car. While some light pollution is present, venturing further from the main roads can still offer great views. For the best experience, bring a telescope and enjoy the family-friendly facilities, including accessible toilets.

Meteor showers occur when Earth passes through streams of debris left by comets. As these meteorites enter the atmosphere, they burn up and create the stunning streaks of light we know as “shooting stars.”