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What we do International Dark Sky Places

AlNufud ITBA

Where the dunes glow with starlight taken by Mohammed Alanazi.

About

AlNufud Dark Sky Park located in AlNufud AlKabir Desert, one of the largest and most ecologically distinct deserts in the Arabian Peninsula, situated primarily in the northern provinces of Saudi Arabia. The Dark Sky Park covers an area of 13,416 square kilometers. Its unique features are defined by vast, iconic reddish-orange sand dunes that can reach heights up to 200 meters.  

Applying Dark Sky guidelines is essential to protecting the fragile wildlife and ecosystems of AlNufud AlKabir. Artificial light at night could disrupt the natural rhythms and behaviors of nocturnal species, including key predators like the Sand Cat, Arabian Wolf, and the Ruppel’s Fox. By implementing DarkSky’s lighting standards and replacing high-glow fixtures, the Reserve will limit the negative effects of light pollution and ecological disturbance. This will also benefit migratory and resident birds by preventing disorientation and supporting healthy nesting cycles. Conserving natural darkness ultimately strengthens the entire ecosystem of AlNufud, allowing wildlife to feed, breed, and thrive according to their natural biological patterns. 

ITBA’s initiatives aim to strike a balance between sustainable tourism and environmental conservation. A new visitor center has been established to welcome tourists, provide educational information about Dark Skies, and demonstrate best practices for appropriate lighting. Additionally, in collaboration with the small local communities living within settlements in AlNufud Desert, ITBA plans to retrofit the existing lighting fixtures to raise awareness and ensure compliance with the Lighting Management Plan. 

AlNufud Dark Sky Park is open to the public for nighttime visits, either through organized trips or independent camping. Independent campers can obtain an instant permit through ITBA’s website. 

Designated

2025

Category

International Dark Sky Park

Address

AlNufud Dark Sky Park, Hail Province, Saudi Arabia
Google Maps

Land area

13,416 km sq.

Documents

Application
Announcement
Annual Report

Website

https://itba.gov.sa

Contact

+966 9200 22077
[email protected]

Dan Oakley
Policy and Destination Senior Manager, DarkSky International
+44 780 357 0818
[email protected]

Weather

Click here to check if the weather conditions are ideal for nighttime sky viewing in AlNufud Dark Sky Park (28.92N, 40.398E).