‘Pink Moon’ in Dubai 2025: Everything you need to know about this rare event
Find the best stargazing spots to enjoy this lunar spectacle this month
DUBAI: A rare lunar spectacle is set to grace Dubai’s sky this month. The Pink Micromoon, a full moon that coincides with the moon’s farthest distance from Earth, will be visible in the early morning hours.
While the name suggests a rosy glow, this moon won’t actually be pink – but its significance in folklore and astronomy makes it an event worth waking up for.
Astronomy enthusiasts and casual skywatchers alike will have a brief window to catch the Pink Micromoon before it sets. The moonrise is expected at 5:56 AM, and with clear skies, it will be a serene sight in Dubai’s western horizon.
What is a 'Pink Moon'?
The term "Pink Moon" originates from Native American traditions, referring to the bloom of pink wildflowers, particularly phlox, in early spring. However, the moon itself will maintain its usual silvery-white appearance.
What makes this year’s 'Pink Moon' special is that it’s also a micromoon. A micromoon occurs when the full moon is at apogee – the farthest point in its elliptical orbit from Earth, approximately 405,000 km away. Because of this distance, the moon will appear around 14 percent smaller and slightly dimmer than a regular full moon.
This is the opposite of a supermoon, which occurs when the moon is at its closest point to Earth and appears much larger and brighter. The contrast makes the 2025 Pink Micromoon a unique event for skywatchers.
Best time to view it
For the best chance to see the Pink Micromoon in Dubai, look towards the western horizon just before sunrise. Since the moon will be low in the sky, an unobstructed view will be essential. Skyscrapers and urban structures may block the sightline, so finding a high vantage point or an open desert area will improve visibility.
Key details:
- Date: Sunday, 13 April 2025
- Moonrise time: 5:56 AM
- Best direction to look: West
- Ideal viewing spots: Open desert areas, elevated locations, or the coastline
Where to see the Pink micromoon in Dubai
Dubai and the UAE offer excellent stargazing locations, away from the bright city lights. Here are a few top spots:
- Al Qudra Desert: A popular choice for astronomy lovers, this area provides dark skies with minimal light pollution.
- Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve: A protected area where nature meets astronomy, perfect for an immersive moon-watching experience.
- Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah: The UAE’s highest peak offers breathtaking views and clearer night skies.
If you prefer a guided experience, the Dubai Astronomy Group often organises observation events for celestial occurrences like the Pink micromoon.
Other celestial events in 2025
If the Pink Micromoon sparks your interest in stargazing, keep an eye out for these upcoming astronomical events in the UAE:
- Lyrid Meteor Shower (21–22 April 2025): This annual meteor shower will light up the night sky just a week after the Pink Micromoon.
- Total Lunar Eclipse (7–8 September 2025): A full lunar eclipse where the moon will pass through Earth’s shadow, turning a deep red hue.