Two Saudi Red Sea resorts earn first global certification for protecting natural night skies

RIYADH: Two Red Sea Global resorts have become the first in the world to earn a new certification recognizing hospitality destinations that protect natural night skies, marking a milestone in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to advance regenerative tourism and sustainable hospitality.

Desert Rock and Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, are the first recipients of the DarkSky Approved Resort certification, launched by Red Sea Global in partnership with DarkSky International.

The new global standard recognizes large-scale resorts that reduce light pollution through responsible outdoor lighting while protecting biodiversity and enhancing stargazing experiences.

The certification expands DarkSky International’s lodging program, introduced in 2023, to address the unique operational needs of large resorts, which require more extensive outdoor lighting and infrastructure than conventional hotels.