ALULA: Two more nature reserves in Saudi Arabia’s AlUla have won recognition as Dark Sky Places, joining more than 250 locations worldwide that are protected from light pollution.

The official accreditation of Sharaan National Park and Wadi Nakhlah reserves from DarkSky International builds on AlUla’s 2024 achievement.

Last year, AlUla Manara and Al-Gharameel Nature Reserve became the first sites in the Kingdom and Gulf region to receive Dark Sky Park designations.

The latest recognition strengthens AlUla’s position as a leading global destination for night-sky protection and astronomical tourism, said the Royal Commission for AlUla in a statement carried by the Saudi Press Agency recently.

Dark Sky International noted earlier that the reserves’ combined area of 6,146 sq. km reflects the “expanded scope of environmental protection efforts aimed at preserving AlUla’s pristine night skies and reducing light pollution across a vast geographical area.”

DarkSky International works to reduce light pollution in urban and rural areas and raise global awareness of the importance of protecting the night sky.

AlUla’s protected areas are located in the heart of northwest Arabia, near the ancient oasis city of AlUla in Madinah province.

“Towering sandstone cliffs, labyrinthine canyons, tranquil basins, and volcanic formations create a dramatic setting where geological diversity, cultural heritage, and thriving biodiversity converge beneath exceptionally dark, open skies,” DarkSky International stated.

Scientists have noted that AlUla’s natural isolation from urban light sources, combined with ideal atmospheric conditions, makes it a world-class destination for stargazing, astronomy education, and immersive dark-sky experiences.

With the phased development of its reserves, AlUla is now ranked third globally in the Dark Sky Park category.