G. Mudalige, Jadetimes Staff
G. Mudalige is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology & Innovation
In the heart of Saudi Arabia’s golden desert dunes, a new phenomenon is drawing travelers from around the world. AlUla Manara and AlGharameel Nature Reserves have been officially designated as the first-ever Dark Sky Parks in the Middle East by DarkSky International. This recognition marks a significant step in astrotourism, a growing niche that offers visitors the chance to witness the wonders of the night sky in areas free from light pollution.
The Dark Sky Park certification, awarded in late 2024, highlights the region’s commitment to preserving natural darkness. Both reserves span 2,334 square kilometers (901 square miles) and have implemented strict lighting guidelines to ensure minimal light pollution. Outdoor lights are carefully designed with shades that direct light downward, maintaining the natural brilliance of the star-filled sky. This commitment not only enhances the experience for visitors but also protects the region’s wildlife and ecosystems, which rely on natural darkness for their behavioral patterns.
Astrotourism is rapidly gaining traction worldwide, with destinations like the Grand Canyon and New Zealand’s Aoraki Mackenzie Reserve leading the way. Saudi Arabia is now positioning itself as a key player in this market. The AlUla Manara observatory, launched by the Royal Commission of AlUla, serves as both a scientific research center and a tourism hub. Guided stargazing tours, known as “starlore safaris,” allow visitors to explore the region’s rich astronomical heritage, rooted in the traditions of the Nabataeans and Bedouins. These ancient tribes used celestial objects like Venus and the sun for navigation and religious rituals, a cultural legacy that continues to captivate modern-day explorers.
The economic potential of astrotourism is substantial. In the United States, the National Park Service estimates that visitors seeking stargazing experiences contribute billions of dollars annually to local economies. Saudi Arabia aims to replicate this success by developing its Red Sea Destination, which is set to become the region’s largest Dark Sky Reserve. Covering an area roughly the size of Belgium, this project incorporates advanced lighting designs and sustainability measures to minimize environmental impact. With resorts like Six Senses Southern Dunes already achieving Dark Sky compliance, the region is poised to attract a new wave of eco-conscious travelers.
However, the rise of astrotourism presents a unique challenge: balancing increased tourism with the need to preserve natural darkness. Light pollution, caused by street lamps, electronic displays, and sports floodlights, obscures the stars for approximately 80% of the world’s population. To address this issue, Saudi Arabia is implementing sustainable tourism practices, including visitor caps and renewable energy systems. These measures aim to protect the night sky while ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at its beauty.
For travelers like Bahraini photographer and tour guide Sara Sami, Saudi Arabia’s deserts offer an unparalleled stargazing experience. Whether camping beneath a blanket of stars or capturing the Milky Way through her camera lens, Sami finds solace in the region’s vast, unspoiled landscapes. With Saudi Arabia leading the way in astrotourism, more visitors will soon have the opportunity to witness the timeless magic of the night sky in all its natural splendor.
Comments