Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 17th, the world will witness a first. solar eclipse Known as an “annular” solar eclipse, this solar eclipse occurs when the moon is too far from Earth to completely cover the sun, leaving a glowing fiery ring visible around its edge. However, there are pitfalls for those of us living in the UAE. The Ring Road is incredibly narrow and remote, stretching almost exclusively over Antarctica. The alignment will take place when the sun is below our local horizon, so the eclipse will be completely invisible from the UAE sky. Although we won’t see the sky darken over Burj Khalifa, this event remains a major global scientific milestone. Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 17th, the world will witness the first solar eclipse of 2026.
What is the “Ring of Fire” solar eclipse?
The term “Ring of Fire” refers to the bright circle of sunlight that remains visible during an annular solar eclipse. A solar eclipse occurs when the moon moves between the Earth and the sun, temporarily blocking sunlight. However, during an annular solar eclipse, the moon moves slightly away from Earth in its orbit. This increased distance makes the moon appear smaller in the sky and prevents it from completely covering the surface of the sun. Rather than the sky being plunged into darkness, as in a total solar eclipse, a thin halo of sunlight surrounds the moon’s dark silhouette. This glowing halo creates a dramatic “ring of fire” effect that mesmerizes sky watchers. Unlike a total solar eclipse, an annular solar eclipse never results in complete darkness because part of the sun remains visible at all times. During the February 17, 2026 event, this impressive ring effect will last up to approximately 2 minutes and 20 seconds at the peak viewing location.
How can I watch from the United Arab Emirates?
You don’t have to miss a show just because you can’t see it from your balcony. Because the eclipse will occur in one of the most desolate places on Earth, several space agencies and research bases in Antarctica are preparing to share the spectacle.
- The partial phase begins at 1:56pm UAE time (GST) and ‘Ring of Fire’ reaches its peak at 4:12pm UAE time.
- Find live streams from
NASA Or a virtual telescope project. These broadcasts offer high-resolution views from the frozen continent, allowing you to enjoy celestial choreography without the need for 14-hour flights or sub-zero temperatures.
The next solar eclipse will occur in August
If you feel like February was a missed opportunity, we have good news for you. A total solar eclipse will occur on August 12, 2026, and will be visible in some parts of Europe, including Spain and Iceland. Although it is not yet visible from the UAE, its geographic proximity may attract eclipse chasers from the region planning a trip.Additionally, 2026 will also feature other astronomical highlights such as lunar eclipses and meteor showers that may be visible from UAE skies.