Spectacular image from space shows the bright lights of UAE

It may be shot from an unfamiliar angle but on close inspection, this spectacular image clearly outlines the coastline of the UAE - capturing the Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman conurbation; Abu Dhabi and Al Ain all in one frame.

UAE from space provided by the ISS Crew Earth Observations experiment and Image Science & Analysis Laboratory, Johnson Space Center. The image was taken by the Expedition 38 crew. It has been cropped and enhanced to improve contrast, and lens artifacts have been removed. Courtesy NASAShow less

The National staff

DUBAI // It may be shot from an unfamiliar angle but on close inspection, this spectacular image clearly outlines the coastline of the UAE.

The large lit area in the centre of the shot is the Ajman, Sharjah and Dubai conurbation and looking down the coastline leads you to the bright lights of the capital, and Abu Dhabi island.

The photograph was taken by an astronaut on the International Space Station on December 11 and provides an interesting night-time view of the country, highlighting the arterial roads that connect the various urban areas.

The Palm Jumeirah is visible off the coast of Dubai, as too is Sheikh Khalifa motorway that connects the metropolis of Abu Dhabi, running across Yas and Saadiyat islands before joining with Abu Dhabi island at the Corniche.

Inland, Al Ain is also visible, as too is Fujairah and Dibba, on the UAE’s Gulf of Oman coast. In the distance at the top of the image Oman’s capital, Muscat, can be seen.