Saudi Arabia is making a significant push into astrotourism, positioning itself as a premier destination for stargazing enthusiasts. The country’s vast, sparsely populated deserts provide an ideal environment for viewing the night sky, free from the excessive artificial light that plagues urban areas. The recent recognition of AlUla Manara and AlGharameel Nature Reserves as Dark Sky Parks by DarkSky International has solidified the Kingdom’s reputation as a leader in night-sky preservation.
The certification of AlUla Manara and AlGharameel Nature Reserves as the first Dark Sky Parks in the Middle East is a milestone in the region’s efforts to combat light pollution. Saudi Arabia now joins 21 other nations that have received similar recognition, including the United States, Germany, and New Zealand.
AlUla, an ancient oasis city, has long attracted visitors with its archaeological treasures and natural landscapes. However, the region’s night sky has become an equally mesmerizing attraction. The observatory at AlUla Manara, part of a scientific and tourism initiative, is working on guidelines to preserve the night sky by implementing responsible outdoor lighting practices. These measures include the use of shaded light fixtures that direct illumination downward rather than upward, reducing unnecessary brightness in the atmosphere.
Gary Fildes, senior manager of AlUla Manara’s observatory, emphasized the importance of these efforts, stating that careful lighting design will ensure future generations can continue to enjoy the region’s starry skies.
Astrotourism is gaining momentum as a lucrative and sustainable form of travel. In the United States, the National Park Service has reported that astronomical tourism generates billions of dollars in revenue. Visitors interested in stargazing frequently spend on accommodations, local tours, and specialized equipment, creating economic benefits for surrounding communities.
Other countries, such as India and Australia, have also seen a rise in astrotourism, particularly during celestial events like solar eclipses. Saudi Arabia is tapping into this trend by offering guided night-sky tours and integrating its rich cultural and historical connections to astronomy.
The Arabian Peninsula has a deep-rooted history of astronomical observation. The Nabataeans and Bedouins, ancient inhabitants of the region, used the stars for navigation and religious symbolism. Venus, often the brightest object in the night sky, was linked to Al-Uzza, a revered goddess, while the sun was associated with Dushara, a powerful deity. High rock outcrops in AlUla may have served as celestial observation points for these early civilizations.
By incorporating elements of Islamic astronomy, Saudi Arabia is further enhancing the astrotourism experience. Tourists can learn about the use of celestial navigation during the Hajj pilgrimage, the significance of moon phases in the Islamic calendar, and other traditional practices tied to the stars.
The recognition of AlUla’s reserves is only the beginning of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious plans for night-sky conservation. Red Sea Global, a major development project along the Red Sea coast, aims to create the largest Dark Sky Reserve in the Middle East. Covering an area comparable to the size of Belgium, this project is implementing state-of-the-art lighting solutions to minimize light pollution.
Andrew Bates, associate director of lighting at Red Sea Global, highlighted key strategies such as shielding light sources, using warm lighting colors, and integrating smart control systems powered by renewable energy. These measures will be crucial in ensuring that future resorts maintain compliance with Dark Sky standards. The first resort under this initiative, Six Senses Southern Dunes, has already achieved Dark Sky compliance.
Despite the benefits of astrotourism, there is a paradox in its growth. Increased tourism can lead to higher levels of light pollution, particularly in previously untouched areas. Everyday sources of artificial illumination, such as streetlights, electronic billboards, and sports facilities, contribute to a phenomenon known as “sky glow,” which obscures natural celestial views for nearly 80% of the global population.
Saudi Arabia is taking a proactive approach by capping visitor numbers at one million annually for its Red Sea project, ensuring that tourism growth does not come at the cost of environmental degradation. Additionally, sustainability initiatives are being incorporated across various resorts to mitigate the effects of human activity on the night sky.
With some of the lowest population densities in the world averaging just 15 people per square kilometer Saudi Arabia has a significant advantage in preserving its night skies. Even outside designated Dark Sky Parks, many areas remain free from excessive artificial lighting, making them prime locations for celestial observation.
Saudi Arabia’s commitment to astrotourism aligns with its broader Vision 2030 strategy, which seeks to diversify the country’s economy by expanding tourism and reducing reliance on oil revenue. By embracing dark sky conservation and integrating cultural heritage into its tourism offerings, the Kingdom is positioning itself as a global leader in sustainable travel.
For stargazers and adventurers alike, the Middle East’s first Dark Sky destination is proving that the beauty of the night sky is an attraction in its own right one that is well worth preserving for generations to come.
