AlUla Manara will be a landmark destination for astronomy, scientific discovery and astrotourism.
It will offer some of the most unique stargazing experiences in Saudi Arabia.
It will be located between Gharameel Nature Reserve and Harrat Uwayrid Reserve.
AlUla Manara is redefining desert travel with immersive stargazing, space discovery and astro-tourism experiences in Saudi Arabia.
AlUla is one of the wonders of Saudi Arabia, home to arts, entertainment, breathtaking landscapes and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra. The destination is now set to transform its relationship with the night sky with the unveiling of AlUla Manara, a landmark destination for astronomy, scientific discovery and astrotourism.
The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and SETI Institute previously announced their collaboration to develop AlUla Manara as a destination for space research, discovery and astro-tourism, with the ambition of transforming AlUla into a global hub for community, culture, science and sustainability.
Designed by Heatherwick Studio, the internationally recognised architecture and design practice behind projects including Little Island in New York, Azabudai Hills in Tokyo and Coal Drops Yard in London, AlUla Manara will connect AlUla’s ancient relationship with the stars with the future of astronomical exploration.
Located within the world’s third-largest Dark Sky Park, AlUla Manara will offer some of the most unique stargazing experiences in Saudi Arabia. Positioned between Gharameel Nature Reserve and Harrat Uwayrid Reserve, the destination benefits from some of the clearest and darkest skies on Earth, creating the ideal setting for astronomy, astrophotography and night-sky experiences.
AlUla Manara will feature advanced research facilities, observation technologies and educational programmes designed to support astronomy and space science. Building on its partnership with the SETI Institute, the project will create opportunities for scientific research, innovation and global knowledge exchange.
More than a traditional observatory, AlUla Manara will be an immersive astronomy destination where visitors can explore the universe through interactive exhibitions, galleries, a planetarium, a restaurant and a rooftop observation deck. Guests will have the opportunity to experience scientific discovery first-hand through educational programmes, live research and guided stargazing experiences.
The design of AlUla Manara draws inspiration from the spiralling forms found throughout the cosmos, including galaxies, planetary rings and star formations, while also reflecting natural patterns found in AlUla’s landscape. The structure’s textured stone exterior takes inspiration from the region’s dramatic sandstone formations, creating a connection between the desert environment and the night sky.
Sustainability and conservation are central to AlUla Manara’s development. The facility has been designed with integrated shading systems, climate-responsive features and dark-sky protection measures to preserve AlUla’s exceptional natural darkness and protect the region’s celestial heritage for future generations.
Through astronomy, innovation, immersive visitor experiences and environmental conservation, the site will strengthen AlUla’s position as one of the world’s leading destinations for astrotourism, scientific exploration and lifelong learning — supporting Saudi Arabia’s ambitions for tourism, research and cultural development.
Where: AlUla Manara, Dark-Sky Park, AlUla
Contact: www.experiencealula.com