AlUla Dark Sky Parks

About

Situated in the heart of northwest Arabia, near the ancient oasis city of AlUla in Saudi Arabia’s Medina Province, AlUla’s protected areas including AlUla Manara Site, AlGharameel, Sharaan, and Wadi Nakhlah, showcase some of the region’s most striking desert landscapes. Towering sandstone cliffs, labyrinthine canyons, tranquil basins, and volcanic formations create a dramatic setting where geological diversity, cultural heritage, and thriving biodiversity converge beneath exceptionally dark, open skies. AlUla’s natural isolation from urban light sources, combined with ideal atmospheric conditions, makes it a world-class destination for stargazing, astronomy education, and immersive dark-sky experiences. With the phased development of its reserves, AlUla is now ranked 3rd globally in the Dark Sky Park category, solidifying its status as one of the world’s premier destinations for astronomical discovery.

Phase 1 – AlUla Manara & AlGharameel Nature Reserves (2024)
AlUla Manara Site and AlGharameel Nature Reserves offer surreal desert vistas and exceptional night-sky clarity. Towering rock formations, ancient ruins, and Nabatean heritage sites provide a dramatic daytime experience, while nighttime reveals a spectacular canvas of stars and the Milky Way. The site is being developed as a hub for sustainable tourism, astronomy education, and scientific research. Guided stargazing tours, overnight camping, and immersive astronomy experiences allow visitors to fully connect with the rhythm of the desert and the cosmos, while ongoing measures prevent future light pollution to preserve these dark nights for generations.

Phase 2 – Sharaan National Park & Wadi Nakhlah Nature Reserve (2025)
Sharaan National Park and Wadi Nakhlah Nature Reserve showcase monumental sandstone cliffs, sweeping valleys, and serene desert basins. As newly certified International Dark Sky Parks, they mark a major milestone in AlUla’s conservation journey. The project included rigorous night-sky monitoring, systematic light measurements, and a comprehensive lighting inventory, which informed extensive retrofits replacing outdated fixtures with fully shielded, low-CCT luminaires to minimize skyglow and protect nocturnal ecosystems. Alongside these technical improvements, community outreach, stakeholder engagement, and specialised training for rangers, guides, and partner entities have fostered a strong culture of dark-sky stewardship. Visitors can enjoy guided stargazing, educational programmes, and nature-based activities that highlight both the desert’s ecological richness and its celestial wonder.

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) leads the initiative, implementing strict guidelines and measures to reduce light pollution and safeguard these pristine night skies for generations. Together, the four areas form AlUla Dark Sky Parks a living testament to AlUla’s dedication to preserving natural darkness, honoring cultural heritage, and offering world-class opportunities for stargazing and astronomical discovery.

Area

6,146 Sq. Km

Designated

2024: AlUla Manara & AlGharameel Nature Reserves
2025: Sharaan National Park & Wadi Nakhlah Nature Reserve

Category

International Dark Sky Park

Address

Google Maps

Website

https://www.rcu.gov.sa/en/

Contact

[email protected]

Documents

Application
Announcement
Annual Reports