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Set beneath some of the clearest and darkest skies on Earth, AlUla has unveiled the design of AlUla Manara, a landmark destination for astronomy, scientific discovery and astrotourism that will transform how visitors experience the cosmos.
Situated within the world’s third-largest Dark Sky Park and designed by Heatherwick Studio, the facility will connect AlUla’s rich celestial heritage with the future of scientific exploration, creating a world-class destination for discovery, learning and inspiration.
The design was recently approved by the Board of Directors of the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) as part of the Kingdom’s wider ambitions to strengthen its position in astronomy, scientific research, innovation and sustainable destination development under Saudi Vision 2030.
The facility represents one of AlUla’s most significant tourism and scientific developments, supporting Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a global leader in astronomy and space sciences while creating a world-class destination for exploration, learning and inspiration.
Rooted in AlUla’s longstanding connection to the stars and traditions of celestial navigation, AlUla Manara contributes to preserving this intangible heritage while presenting it through a modern scientific lens. The project combines astronomy, research, education and visitor experiences, creating new opportunities for learning, innovation and cultural discovery while supporting the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030.
The announcement also strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as an emerging global hub for astronomy and space science while creating a distinctive new reason for travellers to visit AlUla.
More than a traditional observatory, AlUla Manara is designed as a destination where visitors, researchers and astronomy enthusiasts can engage directly with the wonders of the universe through immersive experiences, scientific discovery and hands-on learning.
The main visitor structure will feature immersive exhibitions and galleries, a planetarium, restaurant and rooftop observation deck, inviting guests to connect with AlUla’s rich celestial heritage and the future of astronomical exploration. Alongside interactive experiences, the facility will host real-time scientific research, offering visitors a rare opportunity to witness discovery in action.
Situated between Gharameel Nature Reserve and Harrat Uwayrid Reserve, AlUla Manara will be located beneath some of the clearest skies on Earth, providing visitors with a gateway to the region’s first and the world’s third-largest Dark Sky Park.
The project builds upon AlUla’s growing reputation as a global astrotourism destination, supported by Dark Sky Park certifications, the Astrotourism Policy, community astronomy initiatives and the wider AlUla Manara programme. Together, these efforts are establishing AlUla as one of the world’s leading destinations for celestial exploration and night-sky experiences.
Designed by Heatherwick Studio, the globally renowned architecture and design practice behind landmark projects including Little Island in New York, Azabudai Hills in Tokyo and Coal Drops Yard in London, AlUla Manara’s distinctive form draws inspiration from spiralling geometries observed throughout the universe, from galaxies and planetary rings to collections of stars and gas, alongside similar patterns found in plants, fossils and shells on Earth.
The collaboration with Heatherwick Studio reflects AlUla’s ambition to create world-class cultural and visitor experiences, with AlUla Manara combining striking architectural design with scientific discovery to establish a new landmark for the destination.
Clad in textured stone inspired by AlUla’s dramatic sandstone landscape, the architecture creates a dialogue between earth and sky, connecting the surrounding desert environment with the cosmos above.
Stuart Wood, Executive Partner and Group Leader at Heatherwick Studio, said:
“Space observatories are often remote, sterile places, technical outposts that feel distant from the public. We saw an opportunity to dissolve those barriers and create a place where visitors can step inside the wonder of the cosmos: an environment that is both immersive and inspiring, standing alongside the most advanced science of our time.
“Our design draws from the dramatic spiralling geometries that shape both the solar system above us and the natural world around us. Three interlocking telescope-like formations reach skywards while remaining rooted in the desert landscape, embodying a dialogue between earth and universe.
“The AlUla Manara Visitor Centre will place experiential learning at the heart of world-class science, igniting curiosity and inspiring generations of stargazers and scientists to come.”
The project forms part of AlUla’s wider strategy to develop world-class visitor experiences that combine heritage, culture, nature, science and innovation. Alongside Hegra, Maraya and AlUla’s growing network of protected landscapes and nature reserves, Manara represents the next chapter in the destination’s evolution as a global centre for exploration and discovery.
Phillip Jones, Chief Tourism Officer at the Royal Commission for AlUla, said:
“For millennia, AlUla’s night skies have guided communities and traders, inspired stories and shaped histories within and beyond the region.
“With AlUla Manara, visitors will be able to connect with this extraordinary legacy while experiencing the future of astronomical discovery. By combining world-class architecture, scientific research and immersive visitor experiences, we are creating a destination unlike anywhere else in the world.
“Just as Maraya became an internationally recognised icon for architecture and culture, Manara has the potential to become a defining symbol of AlUla’s future as a destination for exploration, learning and inspiration.
“This investment expands AlUla’s tourism ecosystem beyond heritage, culture and archaeology while reinforcing its appeal for discerning travellers, astronomy enthusiasts and researchers alike.”
AlUla Manara is designed in harmony with its surrounding environment. The facility’s tubular forms incorporate integrated shading systems that manage sunlight during the day while protecting dark-sky visibility at night. Operable windows respond to changing weather conditions, enhancing energy efficiency while preserving views across the surrounding landscape.
Naif AlMalik, Vice President of Wildlife & Natural Heritage at the Royal Commission for AlUla, said:
“Sustainability and conservation-led development are at the heart of AlUla and reflected throughout the design and ambition of AlUla Manara.
“Our dark skies are one of AlUla’s most remarkable natural assets and a resource we are actively safeguarding. Through AlUla Manara, we are creating a platform for scientific research, education and innovation while ensuring this celestial heritage remains protected for future generations.
“The facility will inspire future scientists, researchers and explorers while contributing to Saudi Arabia’s growing role in astronomy and space sciences.”
AlUla’s night skies rank among the top five per cent globally for natural darkness and sky quality. The AlUla Manara site, Gharameel Nature Reserve, Sharaan National Park and Wadi Nakhlah Nature Reserve have all received Dark Sky Park certification from DarkSky International.
To protect this natural asset, RCU has introduced the Astrotourism Policy, establishing lighting controls, zoning requirements and visitor management standards designed to preserve AlUla’s exceptional night skies for generations to come.
Through advanced observation technologies, research facilities, interactive exhibitions and immersive visitor experiences, AlUla Manara will create a platform for scientific research, innovation and global knowledge exchange while opening new horizons for public engagement with astronomy and space science.
As a destination where heritage, science, architecture, conservation and tourism converge, AlUla Manara reinforces AlUla’s position as one of the world’s most distinctive destinations for discovery, exploration and lifelong learning.
Visit experiencealula.com to learn more.
