If seeing the Milky Way is on your bucket list, the next few months are your best chance. Al Quaa Desert in Abu Dhabi is one of the top stargazing spots in the country, and you don’t need a guided tour or a 4×4 to get there. A little preparation, clear skies, and good company are all it takes.

From the best viewing hours to driving tips and what to bring, here’s everything you need to know before heading out.

When Is Milky Way Season in UAE?

Milky Way season in the UAE lasts until September. The best viewing hours are between 9 PM and 3 AM.

For the clearest conditions, plan your visit around the new moon. A darker sky means better visibility and more detail in the galaxy.

Where Is the Best Place to See the Milky Way in UAE?

Any spot away from city lights gives you a good chance of seeing the Milky Way.

If you’re after a real desert stargazing experience, Al Quaa Desert in Abu Dhabi is one of the best places to go. The area is known for its dark skies and has become one of the UAE’s most popular locations for night-sky photography and astronomy.

How to Find the Milky Way in the Sky

On clear, dark nights, the Milky Way can be visible as a broad band of densely packed stars stretching across the sky.

A stargazing app such as Stellarium (for iOS or Android) can help you identify the right area if you’re viewing it for the first time. Look towards the south to southeast and find the Scorpius and Sagittarius constellations.

How to Reach Al Quaa Desert: Routes and Map

Expect a two- to three-hour drive from Dubai or Sharjah, and give yourself enough time to arrive before it gets dark. Several routes can get you there, including:

  • E611 (Emirates Road)
  • E11 (Sheikh Zayed Road)
  • E66 (Dubai-Al Ain Road)

To avoid confusion on the road, download an offline map for “Al Quaa Milky Way Spot” (below) before leaving. Mobile coverage isn’t always reliable in the desert.

You’re heading into the desert, so don’t expect restrooms or vending machines around the corner. The nearest facilities are about 45 minutes away at an ADNOC petrol station.

A few kilometres before the viewing area, you’ll pass through a gate that opens automatically. Regular cars can access the location as long as they stay on the paved road. There’s no need to drive deep into the desert to see the Milky Way.

Also don’t forget that wildlife such as camels, spiders, and scorpions may be present around the area.

What to Pack Before Chasing the Milky Way

A comfortable night under the stars starts with a few essentials:

  • Water
  • Snacks
  • Fully charged phone
  • Closed shoes

If you’re planning to stay for several hours, you may also bring a light jacket or a blanket to make a long night outdoors comfortable. Once you’re settled in and your eyes adjust to the darkness, all that’s left to do is look up.

With a bit of preparation and clear skies, you’ll be in the best position to enjoy Milky Way season in the UAE.