AlUla Expands Astrotourism Push Under AlUla Manara Initiative
Astrophotographers join local authorities to promote AlUla as a dark-sky destination.
A new initiative in AlUla is bringing leading astrophotographers together with local authorities to strengthen the governorate’s positioning as a destination for sustainable astrotourism. Implemented under the AlUla Manara umbrella, the programme supports efforts to protect the night sky, document AlUla’s low light pollution levels, and develop astronomy-focused experiences for visitors from within Saudi Arabia and abroad.
According to the Royal Commission for AlUla, the initiative convenes national and Arab astrophotography specialists to enhance documentation quality, exchange technical and scientific expertise, and advance professional standards in the field. The programme focuses on producing scientific and documentary content that highlights AlUla’s astronomical features, strengthens its global profile as a dark-sky destination, and builds local knowledge while promoting awareness of preserving the night sky as both a natural and cultural resource.
The commission noted that several sites in AlUla have received international Dark Sky designations. AlUla Manara and AlGharameel Reserve were the first accredited Dark Sky sites in Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf region. Sharaan Nature Reserve and Wadi Nakhlah Nature Reserve have also been designated under international standards aimed at reducing light pollution and protecting night-sky visibility.
