AlUla’s starriest season is back. From April 18 to 27, the AlUla Skies Festival 2025 will return with a fresh lineup of events celebrating the region’s pristine desert skies, ancient stargazing heritage, and unique landscapes.
Organised by AlUla Moments, the festival shines a (subtle) light on the area’s rare status as a haven from light pollution. It also honours AlUla’s long-standing relationship with the cosmos. The region is home to Gharameel and AlUla’s Beacon, the first certified Dark Sky sites in the Middle East, recognised by the International Dark-Sky Association. These designations position AlUla as a global hub for astro-tourism and elevate the experience for stargazers seeking a truly unobstructed view of the night sky.
Visitors can venture out to the Gharameel Reserve, where the Milky Way is visible in striking detail thanks to the minimal light interference. Nights here stretch into immersive experiences, complete with guided walks, campfire dinners, and the kind of celestial displays that inspired ancient civilizations to chart the stars.
The 10-day festival won’t be limited to just the night sky. Hot air balloons will float above AlUla’s iconic sandstone formations, with both tethered and free-flight rides offering panoramic views of the dramatic terrain. Illuminated balloon shows will paint the skies at dusk, while musical concerts and cultural performances on the ground will round out the experience—blending AlUla’s timeless landscapes with sound, story, and spectacle.
More information about the festival and its schedule can be found on the official Experience AlUla website.
