UAE to Witness Rare Six-Planet Alignment During Ramadan 2026
This Ramadan, the heavens are set to deliver a celestial gift that requires no advanced equipment, just a clear view of the horizon. On Saturday, February 21, 2026, residents of the United Arab Emirates will be treated to a rare astronomical spectacle as six planets align in a stunning "planetary parade" across the night sky.
Planetary Parade Details and Visibility
While Dubai's iconic city lights are renowned worldwide, the real show will unfold high above the skyscrapers, with the Al Qudra Desert offering the ultimate front-row seat for this event. The alignment features Venus and Jupiter as the brightest anchors, shining like brilliant white beacons in the twilight. Mars will be equally distinctive, displaying its steady reddish-orange hue that sets it apart from the twinkling stars. For the naked eye, these three planets will be easily visible, adding to the night's magic.
However, the "Hidden Giants"—Uranus and Neptune—are located much farther away in the outer solar system. To catch a glimpse of these icy, distant worlds, astronomy experts recommend using basic binoculars or a small telescope to enhance their faint light. Adding to the celestial display, the Moon will join the alignment, positioned perfectly to serve as a natural guidepost, helping observers trace the planets' path across the sky.
Optimal Viewing Times Across the UAE
The planetary parade has a specific "golden window" for optimal viewing. It officially begins shortly after sunset, with Venus and Jupiter being the first to appear as twilight fades, between 6:40 PM and 7:30 PM. At 7:10 PM, the sky darkens sufficiently to spot the fainter planets, while the alignment remains high enough above the horizon to avoid obstructions from buildings or dunes. By 8:15 PM, Saturn and Neptune will start setting in the west, marking the end of the full parade for the night.
Prime Viewing Locations Beyond Dubai
You do not need to be in the Al Qudra Desert to enjoy this event. Here are the top spots across the UAE for spectacular viewing:
- Abu Dhabi (Al Ain): Head to the base of Jebel Hafeet. The elevation provides a crisp, clear view of the eastern horizon, ideal for spotting Mars as it rises.
- Sharjah: The Mleiha Archaeological Centre is a designated dark-sky area. It often hosts specialized astronomy pop-ups during such events, offering public access to professional telescopes.
- Ras Al Khaimah: Jebel Jais, at nearly 2,000 meters above sea level, is arguably the best spot in the country. The high altitude reduces atmospheric haze, making the planets appear like sharp diamonds.
- Fujairah: The Al Hajar Mountains provide excellent silhouettes for photographers. Ensure you find a location with a clear, unobstructed view toward the west.
Scientific Significance and Cultural Context
A planetary alignment occurs when the orbits of planets bring them to the same side of the Sun from Earth's perspective. Although they appear to line up, they are actually millions of miles apart in space—a beautiful trick of geometry. This specific six-planet parade is considered rare due to the number of planets involved and their high visibility in the northern hemisphere. For many in the UAE, this event transcends mere science; it offers a moment of reflection and wonder during Ramadan, a holy month dedicated to spiritual contemplation and looking toward the heavens.
