UAE set for rare celestial event after 172 years

Thursday, 26 December 2019 at 07:01

Sky gazers are in for a treat on Thursday as a rare solar phenomenon will be visible from the UAE for the first time in over 170 years.

This annular solar eclipse happens when the moon covers the sun's centre, leaving a "ring of fire".

The full eclipse, which is expected around 7:35 am will last just a few minutes but the total spectacle is likely to last more than two hours.

It's advised not to look directly at the sun during the eclipse as special glasses are required.

Public viewing sessions have been organised at multiple venues across the Emirates.

More from UAE

UAE carriers cancel more flights to Saudi Arabia amidst regional disruption

Etihad Airways and flydubai have extended the cancellation of flights to several cities in Saudi Arabia due to the impact of regional disruptions.
Six UAE diplomats conferred First Class Order of Zayed II

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has conferred the First Class Order of Zayed II on six UAE ambassadors and heads of diplomatic missions abroad.
Ministry confirms tanker oil spill causing foul smell across UAE

The UAE's Ministry of Climate Change and Environment has confirmed that an oil spill from a tanker is the reason for the foul smell that residents across Sharjah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain have been reporting, adding that there is no health risk associated with it.
Abu Dhabi Crown Prince tours National Gallery of Greece in Athens

His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, has visited the National Gallery of Greece in Athens on the sidelines of his official visit to Greece.