Rare Blood Moon Lunar Eclipse to Light Up UAE Skies September 7

The UAE is preparing for one of the most exciting astronomical events in years. On September 7, 2025, a total lunar eclipse will turn the Moon a glowing red, creating what is known as a Blood Moon. The eclipse will last into the early hours of September 8, giving skywatchers plenty of time to enjoy the spectacle.

The Dubai Astronomy Group (DAG) has called it “one of the most photogenic eclipses of the decade.” The group will also host a public viewing event in Dubai and join an international global livestream to bring this cosmic wonder to people worldwide. With a total phase lasting 82 minutes, this Blood Moon will be one of the longest in recent history, making it an unmissable event for astronomy lovers.

What Is a Total Lunar Eclipse?

A total lunar eclipse happens when the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon. During this alignment, Earth blocks sunlight, and the Moon falls into its shadow. Instead of going dark, the Moon glows in shades of red, orange, or copper.

This red glow is caused by Earth’s atmosphere. As sunlight passes through, blue light scatters away while red and orange light bends around the Earth and reaches the Moon. That’s why the lunar surface looks red—a sight known as the Blood Moon.

Not every full moon turns into an eclipse. It only happens when the Moon’s orbit lines up near one of its nodes—the points where it crosses Earth’s orbital path. This rare alignment is what makes total lunar eclipses so special.

Eclipse Timings in the UAE

Residents of the UAE will get a clear, extended view of the entire event, which lasts almost five and a half hours. The phases are:

• 7:28 PM – Penumbral eclipse begins
• 8:27 PM – Partial eclipse begins
• 9:30 PM – Total eclipse starts
• 10:12 PM – Maximum eclipse (peak totality)
• 10:53 PM – Total eclipse ends
• 11:56 PM – Partial eclipse ends
• 12:55 AM (Sept 8) – Penumbral eclipse ends

Each stage has its own beauty. From the faint penumbral dimming to the fiery red total phase, the Moon will go through a dramatic transformation.

The Phases Explained

At the start, the Moon will enter the Earth’s penumbra, the lighter shadow. This dimming is usually hard to notice. As the event progresses, the Moon will slip into the umbra, the darker shadow, creating a visible dark “bite” on its surface.

The highlight is the total eclipse, when the Moon is completely inside the umbra and turns red. Depending on Earth’s atmospheric conditions, the shade could be bright orange or deep copper-red. After this, the Moon will slowly return to its normal brightness as it exits the shadow.

Why This Blood Moon Is So Rare

Total lunar eclipses don’t happen often, and not all of them last this long. What makes this September event unique is its combination of long totality, vivid coloring, and global reach. Nearly 87% of the world’s population will be able to see at least part of it.

For the UAE, this means a once-in-a-decade opportunity to enjoy one of the most striking celestial displays.

How to Watch the Blood Moon

The lunar eclipse is safe to view with the naked eye. No special glasses or filters are needed. However, using a telescope or binoculars will make the details stand out, from lunar craters to the depth of the red glow.

Photographers can also capture the event using tripod-mounted cameras with long exposure settings. To get the best experience, it’s recommended to find an open area away from city lights, where the night sky is clearer.

Public Viewing in Dubai and Global Livestream

The Dubai Astronomy Group will organize a public viewing event where people can use telescopes, attend guided sessions, and learn more about the eclipse.

At the same time, the group is teaming up with astronomy organizations across six continents to host a global livestream. Partners include Al Sadeem Astronomy in Abu Dhabi, Perth Observatory in Australia, Bahrain Stargazers, Space India, Lahore Astronomical Society in Pakistan, Astro Barcelona in Spain, and the Egyptian Society for Astronomy (ESA).

A special highlight will be a live attempt to capture the Blood Moon with the Burj Khalifa in the frame, in collaboration with photographer Rami Dibo. This will create one of the most iconic eclipse shots ever taken in Dubai.

When Is the Next Lunar Eclipse in the UAE?

If you miss this one, the next chance will not come soon. The UAE will see a partial lunar eclipse on July 6, 2028. However, the next total lunar eclipse will not arrive until December 31, 2028.

That event will be even more memorable—it will happen on New Year’s Eve. The Blood Moon will last for hours, offering a spectacular way to welcome 2029 under a glowing red Moon.

UAE and Its Passion for Astronomy

The UAE is quickly becoming a hub for astronomy and space exploration. With projects like the Emirates Mars Mission and plans for future Moon missions, the country is inspiring young minds to look to the skies.

Events like the Blood Moon eclipse add to this growing interest. They bring people together, encourage curiosity, and show how science and culture can unite under one shared sky.

Tips for Capturing the Eclipse

If you want to photograph the Blood Moon, remember:

• Use a tripod to keep the camera steady.
• Set the camera to manual mode for better control.
• Try long exposures to capture the red glow.
• Frame the Moon with landmarks like the Burj Khalifa for unique shots.

Smartphone users can use night mode or clip-on lenses for clearer images.

A Night to Remember

The September 7 Blood Moon is more than just an astronomical event. It is a chance for people across the UAE—and the world—to look up and witness the same wonder together.

For many, it will be a moment of awe and reflection. For photographers, it will be a chance to capture unforgettable images. And for the UAE, it will be another opportunity to celebrate science, culture, and unity under the stars.