The shower will hit its peak on Monday and Tuesday…
Fireworks are awesome, and the UAE always nails it with drone shows – but is there really anything better than watching the universe put on its own show?
This week, we’ve got the opportunity to catch one of the year’s top cosmic displays. The September Epsilon Perseids Meteor Shower is happening from September 5 to 21, with its peak celestial fireworks lighting up the sky on September 9 (Monday) and 10 (Tuesday). With moonlight at just 35 percent and minimal cloud cover, the conditions are perfect for some sharp-eyed Perseid spotting.
During this time, you can spot up to eight meteors per hour, blazing through the sky with their iridescent tails, showing off a dazzling array of chemically-crafted colors.
What are the September Epsilon Perseids Meteors?
The meteors are named after Epsilon Persei, the star closest to the point where they seem to originate as they approach Earth. But no need to worry – you won’t need to call in the Armageddon crew. These space rocks are usually no bigger than a grain of sand, burning up in our atmosphere at speeds of around 64 km/s.
Who’s your space daddy?
Unlike the August Perseids, which come from debris left by the Swift-Tuttle comet, the origins of the September Perseids are more of a mystery. They’re likely the remnants of a massive, yet-to-be-discovered long-period comet.
But where can you watch the September Epsilon Perseids Meteors?
Explore our complete guide to stargazing in the UAE for all the details, plus must-have gear for your ultimate sky-watching experience.
Roadmap to the stars: The best locations for seeing stars in the UAE
Jebel Hafit Desert Park
One way to up your stargazing game is by gaining some altitude. Jebel Hafit, Abu Dhabi’s highest peak, may only bring you a little closer to the stars, but its rocky perch elevates you above the thicker atmosphere, leaving behind the fog and haze for a sharper, more HD view of the celestial show. It’s a bit of a trek from the major UAE cities (about two and a half hours from Dubai, and two hours from Abu Dhabi), but the bonus is the nearby Pura Eco glamping resort, offering stylish tent and lodge accommodations starting from Dhs450. For the more adventurous, there are also DIY camping pitches available from Dhs150.
Al Quaa Milky Way Spot
This is the kind of spot an astrophysicist might whisper about when they say, “I know a place.” Tucked away in Abu Dhabi, this remote stargazing gem used to be a closely guarded secret. But with the community of amateur astronomers being as open as they are, the location is now easily searchable online, and a casual camping hub has popped up nearby. It’s about two and a half hours from Dubai and 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi city, requiring an SUV to get there. As the name hints, it’s perfect for capturing stunning long-exposure shots of our galaxy’s beautiful spiral arm.
Al Qudra
One of the UAE’s most popular stargazing spots, Al Qudra is conveniently close to Dubai. However, its proximity to the city means light pollution can be a drawback. For a better experience, venture a bit farther out, past the lakes and along the cycle track, to a quieter, more secluded area away from the lights and noise. Given the light levels, a telescope could be a game-changer here. You can find affordable options online that will offer a taste of the James Webb experience, even if it’s on a smaller scale.
Wadi Shawka
Another fantastic spot for stargazing, this Ras Al Khaimah gem offers a stunning natural landscape that attracts hikers and sky-gazers alike. It’s conveniently close to Dubai, less than an hour’s drive from Downtown. Star enthusiasts should arrive during the day to find the perfect camping spot and enjoy the crisp mountain air. For the adventurous, there are lakes tucked within the Shawka Trail hills, and a kids’ play area with barbecue pits near the dam for added fun.
