When Major Hazza Al Mansouri took to the skies in the Soyuz MS-15 spacecraft earlier this autumn, he bagged the title of the first Emirati in space and turned the spotlight on to the region and its stargazing potential.

The vast beauty of Abu Dhabi’s Al Wathba region with its beautiful Liwa desert is said to be the place where Al Mansouri first fell in love with the night sky and its stars.

Lucky then that guests at the elegant Jumeirah Al Wathba Desert Resort and Spa, set just 40 minutes from the capital emirate, can now venture out in comfort to also have their star spotting moment.

Activities include venturing out on ‘fatbikes’ to take a guided ride through the dunes, spotting lizards and sand foxes along the way, or taking to the sands on horseback with a thrilling gallop through the wild landscape.

Those preferring a more gentle approach can venture out on a camel trek, for a traditional experience. Whichever mode of transport or activity, guests can regroup at the end of the day and enjoy a drink of the lantern-lit terrace while gazing up at the skies and the endless sights of stars that once inspired an intrepid astronaut.