As the Islamic world prepares for the start of the Holy Month, residents and astronomers across the Emirates are readying their telescopes. Finding the best locations to see the Ramadan moon is a time-honored tradition, marking the official transition into a month of reflection and fasting. While the official Moon Sighting Committee makes the final call, many enthusiasts head to higher altitudes and remote desert areas to catch a glimpse of the slender silver crescent.
Premier Coastal and Urban Vantage Points
For those who prefer to stay closer to the city while searching for the best locations to see the Ramadan moon, Dubai’s coastline offers several unobstructed views of the western horizon. These spots are ideal for families who want to combine the tradition of moon sighting with a peaceful evening walk or a beachside picnic as the sun sets.
- Al Qudra Lakes (Dubai): One of the most beloved spots for stargazing, located far from high-rise buildings and city lights.
- Kite Beach (Dubai): A popular choice for an evening stroll, offering a wide, clear view of the sky over the Arabian Gulf.
- Jebel Ali Beach (Dubai): Provides a relaxed and scenic setting where you can find a quiet spot on the sand to watch the moon appear.
- The Viewing Point at Dubai Creek Harbour: An elevated 70-metre walkway that offers sweeping views of the horizon alongside the Burj Khalifa.
- Al Barsha Pond Park (Dubai): A comforting and quiet urban option for a peaceful evening stroll under the open night sky.
Elevated and Remote Desert Escapes
To escape the coastal haze and light pollution, heading to the mountains or the deep desert provides some of the best locations to see the Ramadan moon. These spots offer the darkest skies in the country, allowing the thin crescent to appear much more vividly against the twilight.
- Jebel Jais (Ras Al Khaimah): The UAE’s highest peak, where the high altitude naturally reduces pollution for the clearest possible view.
- Liwa Desert (Abu Dhabi): A remote and untouched location within the Empty Quarter, offering almost zero light pollution.
- Al Quaa Milky Way Spot (Abu Dhabi): A famous quiet desert location known among stargazers for having some of the darkest skies in the UAE.
- Mleiha Desert (Sharjah): Widely regarded as a top stargazing destination due to its open landscape and exceptionally low light levels.
- Al Wathba Desert (Abu Dhabi): Famous for its fossil dunes, this serene environment is ideal for quiet reflection and moon sighting.
- Hatta Dam (Dubai): A rugged mountain retreat less than two hours from the city, offering darker skies and a natural, quiet setting.
Choosing one of the best locations to see the Ramadan moon is a beautiful way to welcome the Holy Month, blending ancient traditions with the natural beauty of the UAE’s landscape. Whether you find yourself atop the rugged peaks of Jebel Jais or amidst the silent, rolling dunes of the Liwa Desert, these vantage points offer a moment of profound peace and communal anticipation. As the crescent appears, it serves as a universal signal for reflection, bringing the entire nation together in a shared spiritual journey.
Also Read: Top Budget Iftars in Dubai 2026: Affordable Feasts for the Holy Month
