AlUla becomes global summer hotspot for photographers, astronomy lovers
Updated 01 July 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: AlUla is increasingly recognized as a top summer spot for photography and astronomy lovers, according to a Saudi Press Agency report.
Its clear, low-light skies and striking landscapes make it an ideal setting for night photography and stargazing.
(SPA)
Sites like Al-Gharameel Nature Reserve and the Arch Rock formation, along with other desert landmarks, draw photographers from across the Kingdom and abroad, who capture night scenes featuring stars, galaxies, and dramatic rocky terrain against the sunset, the SPA added.
AlUla Manara, managed by the Royal Commission for AlUla, serves as a hub for astronomy enthusiasts, offering workshops, observation programs, and public events that promote interest in space and night photography.
(SPA)
DarkSky International recently designated AlUla Manara and Al-Gharameel Nature Reserve as the first Dark Sky Park in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region, recognizing efforts to reduce light pollution and promote astro-tourism.
Photographers from several countries praised AlUla’s natural setting and facilities, noting its strong potential as a global astrophotography destination, the SPA reported.
Tourism initiatives in AlUla include night camping, guided tours, and activities that connect visitors with nature and the cosmos, offering a complete experience under the stars.
Jeddah Book Fair set to showcase rising Saudi literary scene
This year’s cultural program reflects the Kingdom’s heritage, with over 170 events including lectures, panel discussions and workshops
Updated 09 December 2025
Arab News
JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission is preparing to host the Jeddah Book Fair from Dec. 11 to 20 at Jeddah Superdome, bringing together more than 1,000 local and international publishing houses and agencies from 24 countries across 400 booths.
Held under the slogan “Jeddah Reads,” the fair is part of the commission’s “Saudi Reads” campaign, which seeks to strengthen the Saudi literary landscape by encouraging reading and creating meaningful engagement between authors and audiences.
Jeddah Book Fair’s cultural program reflects the Kingdom’s heritage. (Supplied/@saudibookfairs)
Dr. Abdullatif Al-Wasil, CEO of the commission, said the Jeddah Book Fair reflects the leadership’s continued commitment to cultural development and the rapid growth of the Kingdom’s literature, publishing and translation sector.
He highlighted the fair’s interactive programs for publishers, authors, translators and the public, which are designed to enhance content quality, support creative development and foster knowledge partnerships.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Jeddah Book Fair seeks to strengthen the Saudi literary landscape by encouraging reading and creating meaningful engagement between authors and audiences.
• It will host prominent writers, thinkers and cultural figures from Saudi Arabia and abroad, offering a 10-day schedule of literary, intellectual and scientific events.
• The fair will continue to support emerging Saudi voices through the Saudi Authors’ Corner for self-published writers.
The event also reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as a cultural hub attracting major publishers, content creators and investors.
This year’s cultural program reflects the Kingdom’s heritage, with over 170 events including lectures, panel discussions and workshops. A dedicated children’s zone will feature literary and entertainment activities tailored to young visitors, along with competitions to inspire reading and creativity.
The fair will host prominent writers, thinkers and cultural figures from Saudi Arabia and abroad, offering a 10-day schedule of literary, intellectual and scientific events.
Book-signing stations will give readers the chance to meet their favorite authors, while cultural organizations, community groups and universities will present their latest publications and initiatives.
A manga and anime zone will highlight collectibles from the genre, alongside specialized books. A discounted books section will also be available to promote wider access to reading.
The fair will continue to support emerging Saudi voices through the Saudi Authors’ Corner for self-published writers, where hundreds of titles across literary and cultural fields will be showcased, underscoring the fair’s role in nurturing local talent and enriching the Kingdom’s evolving literary scene.
