Dubai Astronomy Group Advises Against Al Khatim Desert for Perseid Meteor Viewing

Aug 12, 2026

73 min

Aug 12, 2026 10:31

Perseid meteor shower: Dubai Astronomy Group warns stargazers away from Al Khatim Desert

## Stargazing Advisory

As the Perseid meteor shower reaches its peak, the Dubai Astronomy Group has issued a warning against visiting Al Khatim Desert in Abu Dhabi for independent stargazing. This area, known for its dark skies, is mostly private property, and unauthorized visits are not allowed. The group suggests attending organized events or opting for alternative locations.

## Recommended Locations

For those eager to witness the meteor shower, Al Quaa Desert in Abu Dhabi and Al Qudra Desert in Dubai are recommended. Al Quaa is about two hours from Dubai and offers one of the darkest skies in the UAE, while Al Qudra is closer, approximately an hour's drive from the city.

## Viewing Conditions

This year's Perseid meteor shower coincides with a new moon, providing optimal viewing conditions without moonlight interference. Skywatchers can expect to see up to 100 meteors per hour under ideal conditions, with NASA estimating 50 to 100 meteors depending on the location. The best time to observe is between midnight and 4 am, and viewers should allow their eyes to adjust to the darkness for the best experience.

## Meteor Shower Details

The Perseid meteor shower occurs annually in August as Earth passes through debris left by comet Swift-Tuttle. The particles, mostly the size of sand grains, enter the atmosphere at high speeds, creating bright streaks in the sky. This year’s conditions are considered the best since 2018, making it a must-see event for astronomy enthusiasts.

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