Okay stargazers, night owls, and anyone who’s ever pretended to know their constellations—brace yourself. The biggest cosmic event of the year is about to take over our skies, and no, you don’t need a NASA badge to enjoy it. We’re talking about the total lunar eclipse—aka the blood moon.
So, what’s the deal? Imagine Earth sliding perfectly between the Sun and the Moon, blocking sunlight like the ultimate cosmic photobomber. The result? Our lovely full moon turns a dramatic shade of reddish-orange. It’s basically the universe’s way of showing off.
When: Thursday, September 7 and Friday, September 8
When to Look Up
Mark your calendars, cancel your Netflix binge, and grab a blanket. Between Thursday, September 7 and Friday, September 8, the UAE skies are set to glow with this eerie, magical hue. If the weather behaves (Ras Al Khaimah, we’re counting on you), you’ll get a front-row seat.
No fancy gear is required—the naked eye works just fine—but if you’ve got binoculars or a telescope, prepare for your jaw to drop. The eclipse will strut through phases: penumbral, partial, total, and then back again. The whole show lasts a few hours, but the main event—that deep red glow—sticks around for 30 to 60 minutes. Perfect time for some dramatic selfies with the sky.
Watch It with a Crowd
Not the solitary type? Dubai Astronomy Group has you covered. Talk about skyline goals. They’ll also beam in coverage from around the world, so you can feel like part of a global stargazing squad.
Oh, and if you’re feeling extra social, they’re also hosting a public viewing event. Because let’s be real: gasping dramatically at the night sky is way more fun in a group.
Top Blood Moon Viewing Spots in the UAE
Want the best seats in the galaxy? Here are a few top picks:
The UAE’s tallest peak doubles as a stargazer’s paradise. At over 1,900m high, you’re closer to the stars (literally). Cooler air, rugged mountain views, and wide-open skies make it an epic spot for eclipse watching. Free, and totally worth the road trip.
Geek out with guided tours, smart telescopes, and pro-level stargazing. Bookings are a must. Adults Dhs300, kids Dhs100.
A natural dark-sky haven about 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi. Bring a 4×4 and your best desert-driving playlist. Free, open 24/7.
Salt flats by day, starry serenity by night. It’s a four-hour drive from Dubai, so pack snacks (and patience). Free entry.
Mountains, dams, heritage vibes—and yes, some light pollution. But it’s still a dreamy spot for a night under the stars. Bonus: camping, glamping, or just chilling.
Final Word
Whether you’re watching from your balcony in pajamas or hauling a telescope to the desert, this is one cosmic spectacle you don’t want to miss. Blood moons don’t happen every weekend, so grab your friends, plan your snack game, and let the universe do its thing.
