AlUla... when the sky turns into a tourist destination

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When night falls in AlUla, the features of the scene change. The rocks and natural formations that attract visitors during the day give way to a clear sky revealing its stars and celestial bodies, turning the governorate into a destination that combines the magic of nature with the experience of observing the sky.

In conjunction with World Space Week, AlUla attracts tourists and those interested in stargazing from various countries around the world, benefiting from the clarity of its skies and low levels of light pollution, which has strengthened its position as an emerging destination for astronomy tourism.

The experience is not limited to stargazing, as visitors can engage in various experiences that include photographing the sky, observing planets and celestial bodies using telescopes, in addition to learning about the cultural heritage and stories related to astronomy, and the presence this science has left in the lives of the people of the region, ancient and modern.

The unique nature of AlUla gives these experiences a different dimension. The rock formations, desert landscapes, and various natural sites form an open stage for visitors, combining nature exploration and sky contemplation away from city lights.

Tourism companies in the governorate, owned and managed by qualified Saudi men and women, organize various tours and experiences and receive visitors, while male and female tour guides play a role in introducing the archaeological and natural landmarks that AlUla abounds in, and providing information to visitors in multiple languages.

AlUla’s efforts did not stop at providing astronomical observation experiments, as several sites in the governorate obtained accreditation from the International Dark Sky Organization (DarkSky International), in a step that reflects the efforts made to preserve the quality of the sky, reduce light pollution, and enhance AlUla’s presence on the astronomical tourism map.

The experience is completed by the “Manarat Al-Ula” team, which provides programs and cognitive activities that combine observation and learning, through astronomical experiments and interactive workshops in which specialists in astronomy and space science participate.

Thus, AlUla does not provide the visitor with a tourist experience linked to the land alone, but also opens a window to the sky for him. Where ancient rocks juxtapose with the stars, the quiet desert nights turn into an experience that combines tourism, knowledge, and contemplation of the vastness of the universe.