Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea to eliminate light pollution almost entirely

 

Nature conservation: Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea destination to become dark sky reserve

Saudi Arabia's Red Sea destination is set to become the world's largest international dark sky reserve, aiming to eliminate light pollution almost entirely. Located along the northwest coast, this expansive area promises to be a sought-after tourism hotspot.

For millennia, the night sky has held a special place in Middle Eastern culture, guiding explorers, pilgrims, and trade caravans across the desert. Many stars bear Arabic names, reflecting this deep connection. Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea project seeks to honor this heritage by becoming a premier dark sky reserve.

Ambitious Goals and Natural Beauty

Covering 28,000 square kilometers, the Red Sea destination is surrounded by sand dunes and pristine waters. It’s one of the least light-polluted regions in Saudi Arabia, and Red Sea Global aims to preserve and enhance this quality. The area features carefully considered lighting designs to minimize light pollution, including at the Desert Rock Hotel and the new Red Sea Airport.

 

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“We’re working closely with DarkSky International to achieve this certification,” said Andrew Bates, associate director of lights at Red Sea Global. “There hasn’t been a dark sky reserve on this scale before, and we’re setting new standards.”

The project aims to become the world’s second-largest dark sky reserve, behind the Greater Bend in Texas. Certification is anticipated by the end of the year, following the review of phase one projects.

A Haven for Stargazers and Wildlife

Reducing light pollution not only enhances the stargazing experience but also benefits local wildlife, such as sea turtles and migratory birds, which are affected by artificial light. The lighting schemes are designed to be warm, low, and subtle, creating an ambient environment for visitors and protecting nocturnal creatures.

“Seeing the stars for the first time can be a transformative experience,” Bates noted. “We want our visitors to reconnect with the night sky.”

Community Engagement and Future Prospects

The initiative extends beyond the Red Sea destination. Developers are collaborating with local authorities in nearby towns like Al Wajh and Umluj to improve lighting there as well. This community outreach aims to replace façades and retrofit new lighting fixtures, enhancing the overall area.

 

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The cultural and historical significance of the night sky resonates with local communities, who have welcomed the project. As global urbanization increasingly obscures the stars, Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea destination aims to restore this ancient relationship with the cosmos, providing inspiration and solitude in the darkness.

As American novelist Isaac Asimov once said, “In the presence of total darkness, the mind finds it absolutely necessary to create light.” The Red Sea project embodies this philosophy, creating a space where the natural night sky can shine its brightest.

Source: https://www.thenationalnews.com/