Geminids Meteor Shower 2026 (DAY 1)
Join us for Day 1 of our Geminids Meteor Shower experience at Al Khatim Desert, Abu Dhabi, as we gather under dark skies to witness one of the most spectacular meteor showers of the year.
The Geminids are unusual because, unlike most major meteor showers that originate from comets, they are produced by debris from 3200 Phaethon, an asteroid-like object. The shower is active from early to mid-December and reaches its peak on the night of 13–14 December 2026, with a Zenithal Hourly Rate (ZHR) of around 150 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. The meteors travel at around 35 km/s and are known for being bright, often appearing white or yellow, with occasional fireballs.
Day 1 takes place on Saturday, 12 December, giving you a chance to experience strong Geminids activity just ahead of the peak. Throughout the evening, enjoy an engaging astronomy lecture, a Q&A session, telescope observations, an astrophotography session and guided sky mapping. As the night progresses, we’ll turn our attention to the Geminids meteor shower and deep-sky objects, giving you plenty of time to look up and take in the cosmos.
With a waxing crescent Moon expected around the 2026 peak, moonlight should provide relatively little interference during the best observing hours, making this a particularly promising year for Geminids watching.
Please note: This registration is specifically for Day 1 (12 December). A separate event page is live for Day 2 registration: https://dubaiastronomy.com/event/geminids-2026-day-2/
Make your way to the desert, collect your wristband, and settle in under the stars.
Discover the origins of the Geminids and what makes them so spectacular.
Ask your questions and share your curiosity.
Learn how to capture the beauty of the night sky.
Learn to identify constellations and navigate the stars.
Lay down and look up as the peak of the Geminids meteor shower begins.
Explore planets, stars, and celestial wonders through our telescopes throughout the night.
Capture celestial objects using your phone through the telescopes with the help of astronomers.
End the night with unforgettable memories beneath the stars.
We’re hosting the Geminids Meteor Shower event over two days to accommodate as many stargazers as possible. DAY 1 starts on Saturday, 12 December at 10:00 PM and ends at 2:00 AM.
A precise location pin will be sent by email after your registration is confirmed.
A standard car is enough to reach the event location — the road is paved throughout.
Taxis and public transport cannot reach this location. Please plan your travel accordingly.
We'll be on uneven desert terrain. Closed-toe shoes are required for your safety and comfort.
This is an open desert with active natural surroundings. Please stay within the event area and follow our team's guidance.
Screenshot your ticket email on your phone — the QR code is required at check-in.
Mats, water, snacks and hot drinks are provided. Bring jackets, extra layers, or anything else you might need.
Under 5 enter free (not recommended). Children under 13 must be accompanied by a ticketed parent.
Sudden weather changes like cloud cover are beyond our control. Local conditions can be unpredictable. The weather is expected to be very cold so be sure to dress accordingly.
Alcohol, smoking, open flames/BBQs, and pets are not permitted at our events. We aim to keep the experience clean, safe, and family-friendly for everyone attending.
We will have bonfire stations available for everyone to huddle around and warm up as the night is expected to be cold.
Join Us on Day 2 Instead
We’re hosting the Geminids over two nights, so you can still catch the meteor shower on 13 December.
View Day 2
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