The UAE is set to experience the longest total lunar eclipse of the decade
You will have to look to the skies next week as a spectacular celestial event is on the horizon.
On the evening of Sunday, 7 September, 2025, the UAE will witness a total lunar eclipse, often called a Blood Moon for the dramatic red hue the moon takes on during totality.
This eclipse is expected to be one of the most striking of the decade, with all phases visible across the country for more than five hours.
The moon will pass completely into Earth’s shadow, turning a deep, rusty red as refracted sunlight filters through our atmosphere; a phenomenon that has fascinated sky-watchers for centuries.
The eclipse begins at 7.28 pm with a subtle penumbral phase, followed by the partial eclipse at 8.27 pm.
The full eclipse, the main event, kicks off at 9.30 pm, peaking at 10.12 pm, before fading out just before midnight.
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In total, the complete eclipse will last One hour and 22 minutes, with all phases wrapping up by 12.56 am.
Eclipse Timings (UAE Local Time):
7.28 pm – Penumbral eclipse begins
8.27 pm – Partial eclipse begins
9.30 pm – Total eclipse begins
10.12 pm – Maximum eclipse
10.53 pm – Total eclipse ends
12.56 am – Eclipse ends
For those keen to experience the moment in all its glory, viewing conditions are expected to be excellent across most of the UAE, especially in areas with minimal light pollution.
Desert regions and coastal spots are ideal for an unobstructed view; just be sure to check the weather forecast and bring a light jacket, as desert temperatures can drop significantly after dark.
Contrary to common belief, the desert can be up to 10°C cooler than urban areas at night, making it one of the most pleasant places to sky-watch during summer’s tail end.
With the heat easing and clear skies predicted, this is shaping up to be a night for the memory books.
This rare Blood Moon eclipse is not to be missed. It’s a reminder of the universe’s quiet, awe-inspiring beauty, right above our heads.
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