Dubai: Calling all stargazers – it’s nearly time to catch the Perseids meteor shower, which will peak overnight from August 12 to 13, between midnight and 3am UAE time.Here’s everything you need to know about this cosmic phenomenon, and where to catch it in the UAE.What is the Perseids meteor shower?A famous annual occurrence and considered the best meteor shower of the year by US-based National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Perseids meteor shower occurs when the Earth passes through a trail of dust and ice left by the comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle. These pieces of space debris interact with our atmosphere to create the Perseids.Their radiant – the point in the sky from which the meteors appear to come – is the constellation Perseus, which is why they are called Perseids.Perseids usually leave long ‘wakes’ of light and colour behind them as they streak through the Earth’s atmosphere, making for a spectacular sight. They are also known for their fireballs – larger explosions of light and colour that can persist longer than an average meteor streak.When is the best time to watch the Perseids meteor shower?The Perseids meteor shower occurs every year between July and August, typically reaching its peak in the second week of August. This year, NASA estimates its peak will happen on the night of August 12 and the early hours of August 13, between midnight and 3am UAE time.You can expect to see up to 100 meteors per hour, during this time.Fortunately, this year’s peak coincides with a new moon on August 12 in the UAE – this means minimal moonlight interference for stargazers, and a better chance of viewing the meteor shower.How to watch the Perseids meteor showerHere are some tips from NASA on the best way to catch the meteor shower:No special equipment is required to view the Perseids – they can be seen with the naked eye. According to NASA, meteor showers are best experienced by simply lying down and looking up.For the best view, stay out late as the stars climb higher, find a dark open spot, and give your eyes 30 minutes to adjust.To view the Perseids meteor shower, look toward the northeast once it’s fully dark and watch for the constellation Perseus to clear the horizon. This is where the meteors originate, but let your eyes wander, because they can flash across any part of the sky.You can use free space education apps like Stellarium or Sky View to know exactly what you’re looking at, and which direction to look in.Consider attending official events with local astronomy groups, and become part of a stargazing community.Where to watch the Perseids meteor showerThe UAE is full of stargazing spots from where you can enjoy a clear view of the night sky, away from city lights. Here are a few options to consider:Al Quaa Milky Way Spot, Abu DhabiConsidered one of the darkest spots in the country, Abu Dhabi’s Al Quaa Desert frequently plays host to stargazing events. While you do not require a four-wheel-drive to visit the area, it’s best to stay on the paved road that leads away from any one of the highways that approach this area – E611, E11 and E66. Fuel up before you visit, and bring essentials like water, snacks, and a mat.Fee: FreeAl Khatim Desert, Abu DhabiLocated about 45 to 60 minutes from Abu Dhabi, along the E22 Al Ain highway, Al Khatim Desert is a popular dark-sky destination for stargazing. This year, the Dubai Astronomy Group is hosting a meteor watching event at Al Khatim Art Hub, with telescope stations, expert guides, and astrophotography opportunities. The event is open to all ages.Timing: 11pm to 3am, Aug 12-13Fee: Dh160 – Dh180Mleiha National Park, SharjahAt Mleiha National Park, Sharjah, which is a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage Site, guests are invited to a desert dinner, followed by an expert-led stargazing experience. The event is open to all ages.Timing: 6.30pm to 1am, August 12-13Fee: Dh175 – Dh225Al Qudra Desert, DubaiIf you’d like to stargaze in Dubai without any external guidance, head to Al Qudra Desert. This location is already a popular camping and picnic destination, due to its close proximity to Dubai’s city centre, and access to Al Qudra Lakes, and Last Exit Al Qudra, which features food trucks and restaurants. Head beyond the lake areas and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park to its open desert area, from where you’ll be able to gain a clear view of the night sky.Fee: FreeAl Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, DubaiAl Marmoom is renowned for its sustainability initiatives, native animal species, its cycling tracks and camel races, its heritage sites, and its stunning views. Away from the city, it also offers expansive desert areas that are open to the public, for stargazing. You will require a four-wheel drive to make the most of your trip, however.Fee: FreeWadi Shawka, Ras Al KhaimahOnly 45 minutes away from Dubai, Wadi Shawka is a rocky valley with plenty of hiking trails and the popular tourist destination, Shawka Dam. With viewing access to clear, dark skies, this is generally considered a good spot for stargazers, provided you stay near the Dam, wear appropriate footwear for rocky terrain, and do not venture into the valley after dark, as it may cause you to inadvertently enter privately owned areas.Fee: FreeJebel Jais, Ras Al KhaimahAt UAE’s highest peak, you can take advantage of Jebel Jais’s observation deck and public rest areas, as you enjoy watching the meteor shower with family and friends. At a higher altitude, away from city lights, the temperature in this mountainous region will be far cooler than in urban areas, offering the perfect summer night set-up for keen stargazers.Fee: Free
