UAE from space: Emirates coast provides spectacular backdrop to SpaceX Dragon approach

Dubai and Abu Dhabi islands and all seven emirates feature in new photo from International Space Station

The SpaceX Dragon approaches the International Space Station  - some 418 kilometres above the UAE coastline. Dubai's islands, the Palm Jebel Ali and Palm Jumeirah can be seen under the wing of the spaShow more

The UAE's distinct coastline has caught the gaze of the International Space Station again with Dubai's islands, Abu Dhabi and even Al Ain visible in a single frame.

In a photo taken from the ISS on July 27, 2019 as the SpaceX Dragon approached, the UAE provided a dramatic backdrop during the crucial approach of the reuseable spacecraft some 418 kilometres above the Earth.

From the left of the photo, the UAE's east coast and Oman's Musandam peninsula makes way for Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain and Ajman. Then the built-up cities of Sharjah and Dubai hug the coast underneath the spacecraft. On the right of the photo, the emirate of Abu Dhabi takes over with the capital city's main island, Saadiyat and Yas all visible.

At the top of the picture, the garden city of Al Ain features in an otherwise reddish hue of the Empty Quarter.

Dubai and the UAE has long been a favourite with astronauts on board the ISS.

In June, the team from Expedition 59 were enamoured with Dubai's artifical islands and ensured the World Islands, the Palm Jumeirah and Palm Jebel Ali were documented and posted on social media.

Dubai's changing coastline was also celebrated in a re-released Google Earth timelapse video to mark World Environment Day.

The video, below, shows how the city has changed from developing around Dubai Creek to putting "palm trees" in the sea in the space of 35 years.