If you’ve been looking for the perfect excuse to escape the city lights, August 8 to 15 could be your best chance.

The Perseids meteor shower, one of the most spectacular celestial events of the year, will reach its peak during this period, with skywatchers able to spot 10 to more than 50 meteors an hour, depending on conditions.

Adding to the excitement, the shower coincides with minimal moonlight, creating darker skies and better visibility for shooting stars.

According to local adventure group Arabian Wanderers, August is also one of the best months for astrophotography in the UAE thanks to its typically clear summer skies.

Best places to watch the phenomenon in the UAE

To get the best view, head away from city lights to a dark-sky location.

Some of the UAE’s top stargazing spots include desert camps, mountain viewpoints and remote areas where light pollution is minimal, ideal for watching meteors streak across the night sky.

Opt for a guided experience

If you’d like expert guidance, several groups organise astronomy events during the year, including:

• Arabian Wanderers – Overnight desert camping and stargazing trips.
• Dubai Astronomy Group – Public stargazing sessions, telescope viewings and astronomy workshops.
• The Mleiha camping site in Sharjah offers a guided observation of Venus through telescopes, followed by an engaging astronomy presentation explaining the science behind the Perseids and the night sky. To book a trip, visit www.sharjah.platinumlist.net/

Check other websites and social media pages for Perseids events closer to the peak.

Tips for stargazers

• Choose a location away from city lights. Rural areas or dark backyards are best. Open desert areas are also excellent as these places have little light pollution. 
• Arrive after sunset and allow your eyes around 20 minutes to adjust.
• No telescope is needed, the meteors are visible to the naked eye.
• Stay patient, as shooting stars appear randomly throughout the night.
• Bringing a camera? Use a tripod and long-exposure settings for the best astrophotography results.