Far from the bright lights of the city, Saudi Arabia's ancient city of AlUla has long been a go-to destination for stargazers and in recent years has earned its place among the world's most prestigious astronomical destinations.
This ancient oasis and archeological gem, renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra, has been officially recognised as the first International Dark Sky Park in the Kingdom and the entire GCC region.
As a voluntary program established in 2001, the International Dark Sky Places Program encourages local communities to come together to safeguard their night skies, through responsible lighting practices and public education.
AlUla is Saudi's First 'Dark Sky Park'
Dark Sky International has recognised two specific locations in AlUla as being Dark Sky Parks: AlUla Manara and AlGharameel Nature Reserve.
AlUla's newly awarded status of Dark Sky Park is a testament to its dedication to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism. The region's vast and pristine natural landscapes, coupled with minimal light pollution and expansive tranches of unlit lands, ensures the destination can offer both experts and visitors unparalleled stargazing experiences.
By minimising light pollution, the region protects wildlife habitats, preserves cultural heritage, and supports responsible tourism practices, and encourages the investment in astro-tourism initiatives.
Astronomy Activities in AlUla
This most recent accreditation of Dark Sky Park lends itself to the ambitions of the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) to develop the region further with regards to stargazing, astro-tourism, and solidify the location as a hub for astro and space sciences.
Every year, thousands of visitors marvel at millions of stars visible to the naked eye, even without telescopes in the expanse of AlUla desert. The reduction of light pollution ensures that the stars and constellations are even more clear when viewed through telescopes and other hi-tech visual aids. From guided stargazing camps and tours, and workshops led by expert astronomers, the region's commitment to preserving its natural beauty has ensured optimal conditions for astronomical observation, and unobstructed night skies.
Earlier this year it was announced that a collaboration between the RCU and the renowned SETI Institute has resulted in the development of the AlUla Manara Observatory, and further established the region as a burgeoning global hub for astronomy and space research.
An Incredible Achievement
By embracing the pillars of this program and being recognised by Dark Sky International, AlUla Manara and AlGharameel Nature Reserve have demonstrated their commitment to preserving dark skies and combating light pollution.
These two locations now proudly stand as the only destinations in Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC community with this accreditation and recognition. AlUla Manara and AlGharameel Nature Reserve also stand alongside over 220 other designated Dark Sky Places worldwide, where communities actively work together to protect the night sky from the adverse effects of artificial light.
Of the achievement, Ruskin Hartley, CEO & Executive Director of DarkSky International said, "AlUla Manara and AlGharameel Nature Reserve’s certification as the first International Dark Sky Place in Saudi Arabia and the GCC marks a significant milestone in protecting the region’s nighttime environment.
Dark Sky Places play a vital role in preserving wildlife habitats, safeguarding cultural heritage, and promoting responsible astrotourism, which supports and diversifies local economies. We congratulate AlUla Manara and AlGharameel Nature Reserve on this achievement and commend the Royal Commission for AlUla for prioritising the preservation of their remarkable dark skies."
