🚀 Major Update — June 17, 2026
The project now features a 4-meter primary telescope alongside two 2-meter telescopes, plus a world-class research center, observation platforms, and interactive exhibitions. Partners include the Saudi Space Agency, KACST, and the SETI Institute.
“Manara” means “The Lighthouse” in Arabic — a beacon of discovery, navigation and orientation. AlUla Manara is a remote plateau 74 km north of the ancient oasis of AlUla, rising to 1,209 m elevation. Its exceptionally clear skies have been used for millennia by local communities for calendars, navigation and stargazing.
In October 2024, AlUla Manara became one of the first sites in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region accredited by DarkSky International. Independent measurements rank its night skies in the top 5% globally for natural darkness and clarity.
Together with neighbouring AlGharameel reserve, it forms part of the world’s third‑largest Dark Sky Park by area.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is bringing a 4‑meter class optical‑IR telescope to AlUla Manara — the first facility of its scale in the region. The site enjoys over 79% clear nighttime hours, stable winds and low atmospheric humidity, making it ideal for professional astronomy.
The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has partnered with the SETI Institute to search for technosignatures, while international astrophysicists are evaluating the site for deep‑sky surveys and exoplanet studies. The plateau will feature visitor‑accessible telescopes and immersive exhibits.
For centuries, the people of AlUla relied on stellar positions to mark seasons, navigate trade routes and determine Islamic calendar events. Many Arabic star names (like Aldebaran, Rigel) preserve this legacy. AlUla Manara revives that connection between Earth and sky.
Under Saudi Vision 2030, AlUla Manara is being developed as a global hub for astro‑tourism, science education and astronomical research. Planned facilities include a visitor center, research lodges, and high‑definition telescopes for public and professional use — a true “lighthouse” for stargazers worldwide.
✨ Did you know? The Arabic word “manara” also refers to a minaret — a place of light and calling. AlUla Manara is designed as a beacon that calls humanity to look up and wonder.
