Why the UAE’s Night Sky Feels Different Once You Leave the City

The lights of the city are stunning.

When looking at the city’s skyscrapers all lit up against the dark sky, the cars driving on the highways with their lights and well-lit landmarks feature photographers from all continents all descend on the city.

However, the lights of the cities hide something else.

The stars in the night sky.

When you move far enough away from the city—with no artificial light in your surroundings—the stars become as bright as a brilliant diamond necklace, illuminating the land from horizon to horizon. The horizon extends as far as the eye can see. There is total silence across the dunes and the temperature starts to drop with the wind gently blowing across the sand.

For many people visiting the region, standing on the dunes with a clear view of the stars creates a moment that takes them by surprise and is the most unforgettable experience of their trip.

The country of the UAE is most often associated with grand modern architectural structures and urban splendor; however, as you leave the city limits, you will experience the richness of an ancient, tranquil, and virtually untouched landscape when you go into the desert.

When you stand beneath this beautiful night sky, with the stars scattered throughout the pitch blackness far above you, it becomes clearer to you how previous generations could navigate the desert using only the physical landmarks that were created by nature.

The contrast of the magnificently lit up city and the endless night sky has allowed people to see a different aspect of the UAE.

An aspect of the country that is not defined by rapid change and innovation; but by peace and tranquility.