Total Lunar Eclipse to Turn UAE Skies Red on September 7

The event will unfold on the night of Sunday September 7 into Monday September 8, with skywatchers across the country able to follow nearly five and a half hours of eclipse phases. Unlike many eclipses that are partial or penumbral, this one offers full totality, placing the UAE among the best locations in the world to experience the phenomenon.

In Dubai, the timings are precise: the penumbral phase begins at 7.28pm, partial eclipse at 8.27pm, and full totality from 9.30pm to 10.53pm, with the peak at 10.12pm. The eclipse then gradually fades, ending at 12.55am. During totality, the moon will appear red as Earth blocks direct sunlight, allowing only filtered light, bent through the atmosphere, to reach its surface.

Viewing requires no special equipment – it’s safe to watch with the naked eye – but telescopes and binoculars will bring out fine surface details and deeper shades of red. For the clearest view, astronomers recommend heading away from bright city lights, while photographers should prepare tripods and long exposures to capture the changing hues.

The Dubai Astronomy Group will host a major public event to mark the occasion and stream the eclipse live worldwide, including a striking shot of the moon aligned with the Burj Khalifa. With nearly 87 per cent of the global populationable to witness at least part of the eclipse, this will be one of the most widely viewed astronomical events of the decade – and an unforgettable night for the UAE.