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Beyond adventurous desert road trips and luxurious resorts nestled in the sand, Saudi Arabia is demonstrating strategic vision and significant investment in the promising market of astronomical tourism. By building a unique night sky park, the country is rolling out the red carpet for visitors from around the world, maximizing the potential of this "gold mine" of space tourism.
Saudi Arabia boasts vast deserts with clear, blue skies and minimal light pollution, creating ideal conditions for observing the wondrous beauty of the universe. Recognizing this advantage, the Saudi Arabian government has been implementing numerous projects aimed at transforming the country into a "paradise" for astronomy enthusiasts.
Along with the United States, New Zealand, and Germany, Saudi Arabia is now one of 21 countries on the list of the world's best destinations for viewing the night sky.
Sara Sami, a Bahraini photographer and tour guide, recalls the first place where she truly saw the most spectacular stars. The location was a large cliff overlooking the vast desert, known as The Edge of the World – one of Saudi Arabia's most popular tourist destinations.
Since then, Saudi Arabia has become Sara Sami's favorite stargazing destination. She drives herself into the desert of the kingdom dozens of times from her home in Bahrain, an island nation in the Persian Gulf connected to Saudi Arabia by a 24-kilometer (15-mile) road. Camping under the stars, Sami seeks out undisturbed, dark spots far from towns and cities where she can see the Milky Way.
According to CNN Travel, Sami isn't the only one fascinated by Saudi Arabia's starry skies. Last November, the AlUla Manara and AlGharameel nature reserves near the ancient oasis city of AlUla were also recognized by DarkSky International, an organization fighting light pollution, as the first night sky parks in the Middle East.
Astrotourism is emerging as a promising phenomenon, offering not only significant economic benefits but also serving as a bridge between humanity and the vast universe.
Along with major players like the US, New Zealand, and Germany, Saudi Arabia has officially joined the list of 21 countries with the "World's Best Night Sky Viewing Destinations." This is a proud milestone, marking a significant shift for this Middle Eastern nation in exploring its space tourism potential, while also affirming its commitment to preserving its unique natural beauty.
Gary Fildes, Senior Director of the AlUla Manara Observatory, did not hesitate to express his amazement at the magical beauty of the AlUla night sky. "The night sky in AlUla always amazes visitors," he shared. Indeed, with its unique geographical location and ideal climate conditions, AlUla boasts a clear, blue sky with minimal light pollution, creating a magnificent cosmic "picture" that leaves anyone who beholds it in awe.
To preserve this "treasure" of the night sky, the 2,334 km² (901 square mile) reserve has implemented a series of strict measures, including meticulous lighting design. The lighting system is equipped with lampshades that direct the light downwards, rather than upwards, minimizing light pollution and protecting the "pristine beauty" of the night sky.
Middle Eastern countries are investing heavily in the development of astronomical tourism.
Saudi Arabia's inclusion in the list of "World's Best Night Sky Viewing Destinations" is not only a source of national pride but also a major boost for the tourism industry. Tourists from all over the world, especially astronomy enthusiasts, will have another ideal option to admire the beauty of the universe.
In recent years, astrotourism has emerged as a shining star in the sustainable tourism industry, delivering significant economic benefits. In the U.S., the National Park Service has documented substantial contributions from astronomy enthusiasts, totaling billions of dollars, through spending on accommodation, food, and observation equipment. Other countries such as India and Australia have also seen significant growth in nighttime visitors, particularly during astronomical events like solar eclipses.
The allure of astronomical tourism extends beyond simply admiring the beauty of the night sky. It's also a journey of space exploration, discovering the wonders of nature, and connecting with like-minded individuals.
Astronomical tourism not only offers unique experiences for tourists but also has significant economic benefits.
DarkSky International, a prestigious organization in the field of night sky conservation, has established five recognition categories for areas with low light pollution levels and policies to preserve darkness. "These areas are typically isolated from densely populated areas, and are also where you can see the Milky Way most clearly," said Dan Oakley, Chairman of DarkSky International's Night Sky Parks Committee.
Areas recognized by DarkSky International are not only ideal destinations for astronomical tourists, but also serve as "homes" for many wildlife species, biodiversity conservation areas, and valuable resources for scientific research.
Astronomical tourism not only brings economic benefits but also contributes to raising public awareness about the importance of protecting the night sky. Light pollution not only affects astronomical observation but also has negative impacts on human health, ecosystems, and the environment.
The development of astronomical tourism also presents significant challenges. Close coordination among stakeholders, from the government and businesses to local communities, is necessary to ensure that tourism activities do not cause negative impacts on the environment and culture.
With its immense potential and practical benefits, astronomical tourism promises to continue its strong growth in the future, becoming a new "gold mine" for sustainable tourism.
