Two more nature reserves in Saudi Arabia’s AlUla—Sharaan National Park and Wadi Nakhlah—have been recognized as Dark Sky Places, joining over 250 sites worldwide protected from light pollution. This follows AlUla’s 2024 achievement, when AlUla Manara and Al-Gharameel became the Kingdom’s and Gulf region’s first Dark Sky Parks.
The Royal Commission for AlUla said the designation strengthens the region’s status as a global hub for night-sky preservation and astronomical tourism. DarkSky International noted that the combined area of the reserves spans 6,146 sq. km, reflecting AlUla’s efforts to protect pristine night skies.
Situated near the historic oasis city of AlUla in Madinah province, the reserves feature sandstone cliffs, canyons, volcanic formations, and basins, where biodiversity and heritage thrive under dark skies. AlUla’s isolation from urban light and ideal atmospheric conditions make it world-class for stargazing, astronomy education, and immersive dark-sky experiences. With ongoing development, AlUla now ranks third globally in the Dark Sky Park category.
