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AlUla Manara Design Is Approved & It Looks Something Out Of A Sci-Fi Movie!

Saudi Arabia's Royal Commission for AlUla has finally approved the design of AlUla Manara.

by Anupriya Mishra
AlUla Manara Design Is Approved & It Looks Something Out Of A Sci-Fi Movie!

Recently, the board of directors of the Royal Commission for AlUla approved the design for AlUla Manara. This is an integrated project, which includes an advanced astronomical observatory. The design, which has been approved, looks something straight out of a sci-fi movie, and we are here to tell you about this.

AlUla Manara Design Approved

Saudi Arabia’s Royal Commission for AlUla has finally approved the design of AlUla Manara, which means lighthouse, would have a primary telescope which will have a diameter of 4 m. This will be along with two additional telescopes, as revealed in a report of the Saudi Gazette. Each of these would measure 2 m in diameter! As a result, it would place the observatory among the largest in the world. There will also be a visitor and world-class research centre, observation platforms, telescopes, interactive experiences, and exhibitions at the upcoming observatory.

It Would Be Located Between Harrat Uwayrid Reserve & Gharameel

The innovative design of the building is inspired by the natural and cultural landscape of AlUla. With the intention of making this observatory the ideal destination for scientists, researchers and visitors who wish to seek to explore the universe, the facility will be built with locally-sourced sandstones. These are for the exterior of the building. It will offer a clear view of the night sky and panoramic vistas of the natural environment. It is located 70 km north of AlUla and would be located between the Harrat Uwayrid Reserve and Gharameel.

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It Would Attract Space Enthusiats, Visitors & More

The site selection has been based on the basis of criteria that assess the suitable levels of light pollution. The commission is collaborating with a range of partners, such as the Saudi Space Agency, the SETI Institute, and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, to make AlUla Manara, a centre for innovation and scientific advancement.

Finally, it will also be taking measures to reduce light pollution by implementing outdoor light regulations. With the aim of attracting visitors, space enthusiasts, scientists, and astronomy enthusiasts from across the world, this is a big development that’s coming to AlUla.

Cover Image Courtesy: X/RCU_SA

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First Published: June 18, 2026 1:39 PM

FAQs

What has the Royal Commission for AlUla approved?

Royal Commission for AlUla has approved the design for AlUla Manara.

What is AlUla Manara?

AlUla Manara is an integrated project which includes an advanced astronomical observatory.

What is the highlight of AlUla Manara?

AlUla Manara will have a primary telescope with a diameter of 4 m along with two additional telescope, each of which would measure 2 m in diameter. This would make it among the largest observatory in the world.