About us

We are Dubai Astronomy Group

We are a passionate community dedicated to making astronomy accessible, engaging, and unforgettable for everyone. Through curated events, hands-on experiences, and educational programs, we bring people closer to the wonders of the universe!

01 · Our beginnings

Where it all started

Created with a deep love of the night sky and a belief that the wonders of the cosmos belong to everyone, Dubai Astronomy Group chose to start things off by being "your gateway to the Universe" — a seeding point of a community where enthusiasts and friends would gather under the stars, sharing telescopes and stories. What began as those small, heartfelt meetups has grown into one of the region's most beloved communities for astronomy, now welcoming thousands of stargazers, dreamers, and curious minds.

Since its inception in 2000, the group has been guided by its Founder and CEO, Hasan Ahmad Al Hariri, whose genuine passion for the Universe has touched countless lives. His dedication has helped weave astronomy into the fabric of the community — through the creation of Al Thuraya Astronomy Center, and ensuring that Dubai Astronomy Group remains a welcoming home where anyone can look up, wonder, and belong.

02 · What we do

More than stargazing

Dubai Astronomy Group has also played a key role in developing astro-tourism and educational programs across the UAE, transforming the desert landscape into a gateway to the stars. Through guided stargazing nights, large-scale celestial events, and immersive programs for schools and families, we connect communities with the cosmos in ways that are engaging, memorable, and deeply meaningful.

We also lead innovative projects in astronomy, scientific research, robotics, dome manufacturing, and radio technology, and have represented the UAE on the international stage — including at the 2023 U.S. Balloon Fiesta, where we educated over 150,000 attendees about the annular solar eclipse. From VR/AR space exploration and meteorite exhibitions to STEM camps and teacher training, every program is a step toward a more scientifically curious society.

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Inspiring curiosity since 2000

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A thriving community of enthusiasts

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Participants across programs & events

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Fleet of professional-grade instruments

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Served through school programs since 2015

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Year-round programs & stargazing nights

In pictures

Moments under the stars

A glimpse of life at Dubai Astronomy Group — from desert nights to a community that keeps looking up.

03 · Our mission

Why we do it

At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to making astronomy accessible, inspiring, and integrated into everyday life. We believe that looking up at the night sky is one of the most powerful things a human being can do — it grounds us, humbles us, and ignites a curiosity that no classroom alone can teach.

As a non-profit aligned with the UAE Vision 2031 and Dubai Agenda 33, DAG is dedicated to building a scientifically literate community through public engagement, youth empowerment, and innovation. We don't just want people to see the stars — we want them to feel connected to the universe, and to carry that wonder into everything they do.

To promote astronomy and inspire scientific curiosity across the UAE and beyond.

Accessibility

The universe belongs to everyone. We make astronomy welcoming for all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels.

Education

We nurture curiosity and scientific thinking through hands-on programs, school outreach, and expert-led experiences.

Community

We're a gathering place — a home for dreamers, researchers, and stargazers united by a love of the cosmos.

Innovation

From NEO detection systems to AI-powered telescopes, we push the boundaries of what astronomy can achieve.

04 · Our purpose

Built around the UAE's vision

Dubai Astronomy Group is not just a community, it is a purpose-driven organisation aligned with the UAE's national priorities. From advancing scientific literacy and the knowledge economy to championing sustainability and social inclusion, every programme we run contributes to the country's long-term ambitions.

As Dubai's only licensed astronomy non-profit and the largest in the UAE, we sit at the intersection of education, innovation, and culture — exactly where the nation's vision is pointing.

National Strategy

UAE Vision 2031

We advance the UAE's ambition to build a knowledge-driven, innovation-led society by making science accessible to every segment of the population.

  • Youth empowerment through hands-on STEM programs
  • Building scientific literacy and future-ready skills
  • Supporting a knowledge economy through education
  • Promoting tolerance and inclusion through shared discovery
Economic Agenda

Dubai D33 Agenda

Dubai's Economic Agenda D33 seeks to double the emirate's economy by 2033. DAG contributes directly by strengthening the science, education, and astro-tourism sectors.

  • Astro-tourism programs driving visitor engagement
  • Science education fuelling a skilled, innovative workforce
  • Bridging NGO, industry, and government ecosystems
  • Enhancing Dubai's global positioning as a science hub
Environmental Commitment

Sustainability

Sustainability is embedded in how we operate and what we teach — connecting astronomy to climate awareness and responsible stewardship of our natural world.

  • Zero-waste event operations aligned with UAE 2030 priorities
  • 80% reduction in paper use through digital ticketing
  • Light-pollution education with Dark Sky International
  • Environmental stewardship through astronomy outreach
Space Strategy

National Space Strategy 2030

As the UAE advances its ambitions in space exploration, DAG plays a direct role in building the public awareness and scientific culture needed to support a thriving national space sector.

  • Inspiring the next generation of UAE space professionals
  • Advancing public understanding of space science
  • Supporting UAE's position as a global space hub
  • Connecting communities to the UAE's space journey
05 · Our people

The people behind the stars

A small, passionate team making the universe accessible across the UAE — and a growing community of volunteers behind every event.

Volunteer with us →
Chief Executive Officer & Founder

Hasan Ahmad Al Hariri

Founder and CEO of Dubai Astronomy Group, leading the organisation since 2000 and a driving force for astronomy, education, and science outreach across the UAE.

Leadership & governance

Our board of directors

Ahmad Madani

Board member

Yousef Marhoon

Board member

Sayed Abdullah Al Hashemi

Board member

Husain Ahmad Mohammad

Board member

Rashid Ahmad

Board member

Our team

Sheeraz

General Manager

Khadijah

Operations Manager

Habiba

Marketing Manager

Ahmad

Head of Technical Dept.

Mahmood

Public Relations Officer

Ali

Operations Asst.

Hamzah

Marketing Asst.

Zainab

Admin. Manager

Ameena

Social Media Asst.

Omar

Administrative Asst.

06 · Testimonials

Loved by stargazers

Real words from people who have spent a night under the stars with us.

Average rating ★★★★★★★★★★ 4.2/5

Ready to look up?

The sky is better seen together

Join an upcoming stargazing night, or become a member and make the wonders of the universe part of your routine.

Dubai Astronomy Group
DAG
DAG Assistant
Ask me about astronomy & events
Hi! I'm the Dubai Astronomy Group assistant. Ask me about our events, telescopes, or anything about the night sky. ✦