Top 5 Stargazing Spots to Experience the Magic of the Night Sky

Image: Stargazing at Gharameel, AlUla, Saudi Arabia

AlUla, Saudi Arabia – October, 2024: The ancient oasis city of AlUla has been awarded the prestigious International DarkSky Park Certification, recognising its pristine night skies that are among the top 5% of dark sky quality locations globally for stargazing and astro-tourism.

The certification from globally renowned US-based organisation DarkSky International affirms AlUla’s commitment to minimising light pollution, preserving and protecting the night-time environment, and ensuring that its breathtaking skies remain crystal-clear for stargazers.

With a plethora of sprawling open-air locations and favourable weather conditions after nightfall, AlUla’s visitors can escape into the cosmos, marvel at the celestial wonders, and connect with the ancient heritage of celestial navigation that once guided travellers.

In the heart of northwest Arabia, AlUla is crafting a celestial experience unlike any other, transforming its vast desert skies into a haven for stargazers, astro-tourists, and space explorers alike. Here, where the ancient sands meet an untouched, tranquil horizon, the heavens come alive. Countless stars shimmer brightly against the ink-black sky, revealing a cosmic canvas both awe-inspiring and infinite.

With the naked eye, the stars dance above, but through telescopes, entire galaxies unfurl in breathtaking clarity. AlUla’s serene landscape, steeped in timeless beauty, offers the perfect stage for this stargazing odyssey and the next chapter of space discovery.

For travellers seeking to experience AlUla’s clear skies, here are the top five stargazing spots that promise an unforgettable experience:

1. The Dancing Rocks in Raggasat Valley offer a blend of natural wonder and cosmic beauty. These rock formations, sculpted by the forces of nature, appear to sway in unison, almost as if they are dancing under the stars. The absence of light pollution in this remote location means the stars above shine bright, providing a dazzling celestial show.

2. An hour outside of AlUla’s city centre lies Gharameel, where towering otherworldly rock pillars stretch skyward, creating a dramatic landscape that offer unrivalled stargazing opportunities. Gharameel’s dark skies and the striking vertical rock formations create a one-of-a-kind visual experience, where visitors can gaze up at the stars amid the ancient spires. Travellers can pick from a variety of hikes and tours of this natural marvel, with stargazing taking pride of place.

3. Ashar Valley, a stunning desert escape known for its majestic rock formations that surround world-class resorts, provides a luxurious stargazing experience. Whether you’re staying at the opulent Banyan Tree AlUla, Our Habitas AlUla, or enjoying the rugged beauty of Ashar Tented Resort, the stars here shine as brightly as ever. The valley’s remote location and epic landscapes make it an ideal setting for gazing at the night sky, allowing visitors to enjoy modern comfort while feeling deeply connected to celestial wonders.

4. For truly epic stargazing, head to Rainbow Rock, a landmark that has become synonymous with stunning celestial photography. The rock’s unique arched shape, hewn by time and the elements, provide the perfect foreground for a spectacular night sky brimming with stars. Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or a professional astrophotographer, Rainbow Rock is an iconic spot to witness the beauty of AlUla’s dark skies.

5. One of AlUla’s most iconic historical sites, Hegra, offers not only a window into the past but also a gateway to the stars. A little-known but perfect spot for stargazing is the hill that overlooks the Tomb of Lihyan. Also known as the Son of Kuza, this instantly recognisable structure is the most iconic tomb at the UNESCO World Heritage Site. By day, it tells the story of the Nabataean civilisations that once thrived in AlUla. At night, it becomes a sanctuary for stargazing and remarkable night-time views.

These are just a few of the many stargazing spots beneath the tranquil skies of this ancient city. Across AlUla, visitors can connect deeply with the cosmos while enjoying the region’s diverse offerings, from world-class hospitality and wellness to arts, culture, and music events.