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Concept images of AlUla Manara\u2019s design inspired by the spiralling forms of galaxies and planetary rings. (Supplied)<\/p>\n
\n\tRIYADH: 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.<\/p>\n
\n\tLocated within the world\u2019s third-largest Dark Sky Park and situated between Gharameel Nature Reserve and Harrat Uwayrid Reserve, AlUla Manara will connect the area\u2019s rich celestial heritage with the future of scientific exploration, creating a destination for discovery, learning and inspiration.<\/p>\n
\n\tDesigned by Heatherwick Studio \u2014 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 \u2014 AlUla Manara\u2019s distinctive form draws inspiration from spiraling 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.<\/p>\n
Concept images of AlUla Manara\u2019s design inspired by the spiralling forms of galaxies and planetary rings. (Supplied)<\/p>\n
\n\tThe design was recently approved by the directors of the Royal Commission for AlUla as part of the Kingdom\u2019s wider ambitions to strengthen its position in astronomy, scientific research, innovation and sustainable destination development under Saudi Vision 2030.<\/p>\n
\n\tExteriors will draw from AlUla\u2019s identity, with textured stone cladding that references the sandstone mountains and surrounding UNESCO World Heritage landscape. The facility\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
\n\tRooted in AlUla\u2019s long-standing 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.<\/p>\n
\n\t\tJust as Maraya became an internationally recognized icon for architecture and culture, Manara has the potential to become a defining symbol of AlUla\u2019s future as a destination for exploration, learning and inspiration.<\/p>\n
\n\t\tPhillip Jones, Royal Commission for AlUla chief tourism officer<\/p>\n
\n\tNaif Al-Malik, vice president of wildlife and natural heritage at the RCU, said: \u201cSustainability and conservation-led development are at the heart of AlUla and reflected throughout the design and ambition of AlUla Manara.<\/p>\n
\n\t\u201cOur dark skies are one of AlUla\u2019s 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.\u201d<\/p>\n
\n\tAccording to the royal commission, AlUla Manara is a movement that is \u201credefining humanity\u2019s relationship with the night sky,\u201d positioning astrotourism as a new frontier for exploration while connecting ancient landscapes, cultural heritage and future scientific discovery.<\/p>\n
\n\tEnvisioned as a \u201cone-of-a-kind opportunity for public engagement with science and astronomy,\u201d it will \u201ccontribute to Saudi Arabia\u2019s growing significance in the world of space research while positioning AlUla globally as a future-forward astronomy destination.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
\n\tThe project builds upon AlUla\u2019s growing reputation as an astrotourism destination, supported by Dark Sky Park certifications, the Astrotourism Policy, community astronomy initiatives and the wider AlUla Manara program. The Astrotourism Policy establishes lighting controls, zoning requirements and visitor management standards designed to preserve AlUla\u2019s exceptional night skies.<\/p>\n
\n\tStuart Wood, executive partner and group leader at Heatherwick Studio, told Arab News: \u201cSpace 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.<\/p>\n
\n\t\u201cThe AlUla Manara visitor center will place experiential learning at the heart of world-class science, igniting curiosity and inspiring generations of stargazers and scientists to come.\u201d<\/p>\n
\n\tAlUla Manara will be more than a traditional observatory, with visitors, researchers and astronomy enthusiasts able to engage directly with the wonders of the universe through immersive experiences, scientific discovery and hands-on learning.<\/p>\n
\n\tIt will feature immersive exhibitions and galleries, a planetarium, restaurant and rooftop observation deck. Alongside interactive experiences, the facility will host real-time scientific research, offering visitors a rare opportunity to witness discovery in action.<\/p>\n
\n\tPhillip Jones, chief tourism officer at the RCU, told Arab News: \u201cFor millennia, AlUla\u2019s night skies have guided communities and traders, inspired stories and shaped histories within and beyond the region.<\/p>\n
\n\t\u201cWith AlUla Manara, visitors will be able to connect with this extraordinary legacy while experiencing the future of astronomical discovery \u2026 Just as Maraya became an internationally recognized icon for architecture and culture, Manara has the potential to become a defining symbol of AlUla\u2019s future as a destination for exploration, learning and inspiration.\u201d<\/p>\n
\n\tHe added the project would expand AlUla\u2019s tourism ecosystem beyond heritage, culture and archaeology while \u201creinforcing its appeal for discerning travelers, astronomy enthusiasts and researchers alike.\u201d<\/p>\n
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