Heard about Al Ula for the first time? Well, this is your ticket to the guide that will give a clear picture of this famous tourist destination in Saudi Arabia.
About AlUla
Touted as the world’s largest living museum and the first-ever UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia, AlUla is located in the Madinah region, 200 km from the Red Sea. This gorgeous valley desert is an admiration for natural wonders, with historic sites, cultural attractions, and sandstone formations. Interestingly, this is fertile land and always had a sufficient water supply. Well, the place that had drawn numerous archaeologists and historians from around the world is gradually transforming into a hotspot. It has undergone a neck-turning transformation for global travelers. It is one of the unique holiday destinations that amalgamates natural and human-made attractions.
Al Ula was founded in the 6th century along the Incense Road, a route famous for trading spices and silk across the Arabian Peninsula, Egypt, and India. Over the years, this region remained significant for trade and civilization. It was in the 20th century that extraordinary developments began and the local people maneuvered from the Old town to the new town center. Despite the changes, one can still find ruins within the boundaries.
The place officially opened its doors to international tourists in 2020 just a year after the process for Saudi Arabia tourist visa was launched. There have been tremendous reformations for travel in the past three years from the introduction of eVisas to new attractions.
What Al Ula Looks Like in Present Days?
Al Ula is gradually emerging as one of the hottest tourist places in Saudi Arabia. People Under the program “Journey through Time Masterplan”, this region has ticked off several development ideas, from the expansion of the airport to the generation of thousands of new jobs. Millions of tourists flock to check out the unique desert ecosystem, where luxury and ruins coexist. It is a postcard-worthy destination with delightful places like the 171-ft Elephant Rock and countless mysteries waiting for you to uncover.
A. Things to Do in Al Ula
1. Breathe in the Sanity of the Old Town
Uncover Saudi Arabia’s past, harking back to the 6th century, in the Al Ula Old Town. Wander through the winding alleys where pilgrims and residents lived from the 12th century up to the 1980s. Soak in the peace of this UNESCO-recognised mud-brick village. Later, browse the traditional markets to check out handmade crafts, clothes, jewelry, and souvenirs. If you are a history buff, tag along with a tour guide, who will help you discover the rich heritage and dig deeper into its origins. You will also find out the mind-blowing techniques of the water systems for irrigation and other uses that were used centuries ago.
2. Visit the Archaeological Wonderland Hegra
What can be a better experience of witnessing history face-to-face other than watching a striking sandstone cliff from the 1st century AD? Hegra, stamped as a UNESCO Heritage Site, is home to 110 protected and preserved tombs shaped in picturesque formations. Do take your camera because these deserve a photo book of their own. A testament to Al Ula’s rich heritage, Hegra was once the region’s center during the Nabatean’s rule and enjoyed a golden era then. Sprawling over 52 hectares, this is an underrated gem away from the hustle and bustle of Instagram influencers. As you walk further, discover historic wells and water channels. You can also hire a local tour who will narrate interesting and fascinating facts about this place.
3. Take a Moment to Appreciate Maraya
As you wander in the endless desert, you will stumble upon the largest mirror-covered building, Maraya. Built by the Italian design firm Gio Forma Studio in collaboration with Black Engineering, this is one of the iconic attractions in Al Ula. This masterpiece camouflages with the environment and as the sun clocks through the day, there are times it seems to vanish. It is a 500-seater concert venue, and if lucky, you can enjoy an exciting event.
4. Unravel the History at Jabal Ikmah
It’s time to read the book backward as you visit the open-air library in Al Ula. Here you will discover an awe-inspiring collection of rock inscriptions, petroglyphs, and rock art. These inscriptions belong to Dadanitic and Lihyanite eras — and are true evidence of the ancient civilization. The carvings are of different humans, musical instruments, tools, and animals letting you know how people lived in those days. Since this is one of the best places in Al Ula, book the tour in advance.
5. Go for Self-Camping
Put on your adventure hat and go camping with your buddies or partner amidst the oasis. Soak in the amazing views of the off-beaten path and marvel at the grand canyons and sandstone beats set against the pink-hued sky. Dance beside the bonfire and stargaze in the middle of nowhere. It’s an out-of-the-world experience when you wake up to the jaw-dropping sunrises behind the sand hills. These camping and glamping tours in Al Ula are highly recommended for free-spirited travelers.
6. Take up the Challenge at Al Ula’s Adventure Hub
Adventure Hub is your official entry to thrilling actions in Al Ula. Sign up for abseiling, an epic adventure where you descend from the rocky mountains. Or you can whiz through the magnificent landscapes on a zipline. Get your heart pumping as you swing through the giant and lofty canyon walls. This Giant Swing experience is unlike any other. We would recommend you try this in the morning when the sunrise is in the background and you fly like a bird. Other daring outdoor sports you can try in Al Ula are rock climbing and canyon hammock.
7. Hop on the Caravan
Al Ula is a large domain; one of the best ways to tour is to get on the vintage Land Rover. What makes it more exciting is that it’s a private and comfortable tour where you can sit with your friends and family and marvel at the scenic landscape. This trail would give you an overview of Al Ula — unparalleled views of ruins, golden sands, studded outcrops, and majestic wildlife.
B. Best Time to Visit Al Ula
The best time to visit Al Ula is winter, which falls from November to March. The temperature ranges between 18-24 °C. Saudi Arabia is not one of the preferable destinations in the summer months. The other good time is spring when the Al Ula weather is pleasant. Days remain warm and nights get cold with average temperatures of 29-35 °C.
C. Where to Eat in Al Ula?
It’s hard to believe when we tell you that a destination with sand and mountains all over the place has some of the most exquisite places to dine in Saudi Arabia. You can find a choice of restaurants in this valley desert, from stunning rooftop views or open-air comfy setups. Gobble your favorite dishes from Italian, Parisian, or Middle Eastern cuisine. Al Hate Bakery, Entrecote, Harrat at Banyan Tree, Daimumah Restaurant, Saffron, and Tama are a few fine-dining spots in Al Ula.
D. Where to Stay in Al Ula?
Although this place is tucked away from the urban landscape, staycations at Al Ula are nothing less than a luxury. You can find villas located in the desert with pristine views, grand lounging, and comfy beds. These places also have regional flavors in the restaurants. Some of the famous hotels in Al Ula, Saudi Arabia are Habitas, Banyan Tree, Sahary Resort, Cloud 7 Residence, and Ashar Tented Resorts.
Conclusion
Al Ula is a timeless mystery that holds the history of millions of years ago. Book your next trip here before the footprints exceed.
A travel influencer, adventurer and blogger on a mision to dicover the hidden gems of this beautiful planet. For me traveling isn’t a hobby, but a way of living.
