AlUla: Saudi Arabia's Ancient Wonder Opening to the World

AlUla: Saudi Arabia's Ancient Wonder Opening to the World

AlUla is one of the world's most extraordinary destinations — a place where 200,000 years of human history are written in the landscape, where ancient civilizations left monuments of breathtaking scale and beauty, and where the dramatic desert scenery creates a sense of wonder that is difficult to put into words. For decades, this extraordinary region in northwest Saudi Arabia was closed to international visitors. Today, as Saudi Arabia implements its Vision 2030 tourism program, AlUla is finally opening its doors to the world, and what travelers are discovering is nothing short of extraordinary.

Hegra — Saudi Arabia's Petra

Hegra (also known as Mada'in Saleh) is the jewel of AlUla, a Nabataean city of over 100 monumental tombs carved into the sandstone outcrops of the Hejaz region. Designated Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, Hegra is often compared to Petra in Jordan — and the comparison is apt. The scale and craftsmanship of the tombs, some rising to 22 meters in height and decorated with elaborate facades, is extraordinary. Unlike Petra, which receives over a million visitors per year, Hegra is still largely undiscovered, offering an experience of remarkable intimacy and tranquility. Explore AlUla on Globioo →

The Old Town of AlUla

The Old Town of AlUla is one of the Arabian Peninsula's most atmospheric historic settlements. The ancient mud-brick city, inhabited for over 2,000 years before being abandoned in 1983, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, crumbling towers, and ancient mosques. The Royal Commission for AlUla has invested heavily in the preservation and interpretation of the Old Town, creating a remarkable visitor experience that combines historical authenticity with contemporary design.

Dadan — The Ancient Kingdom

Dadan, located just south of AlUla Old Town, was the capital of the ancient Dadanite and Lihyanite kingdoms, which flourished between the 9th and 4th centuries BC. The site's rock-cut tombs, carved high into the sandstone cliffs, are among the most impressive in the region, and the ongoing archaeological excavations are revealing new insights into these little-known ancient civilizations.

The Elephant Rock

Jabal AlFil, or the Elephant Rock, is one of AlUla's most iconic natural landmarks — a massive sandstone formation that bears a striking resemblance to an elephant. The rock, which stands 52 meters tall, is particularly spectacular at sunset, when the golden light transforms the sandstone into a glowing amber. The surrounding desert landscape, with its dramatic rock formations and ancient caravan routes, creates a setting of extraordinary beauty.

Maraya — The Mirror in the Desert

Maraya is one of the world's most extraordinary buildings — a concert hall and events venue clad entirely in mirrors, set in the desert landscape of AlUla. The building, which holds the Guinness World Record for the world's largest mirrored building, reflects the surrounding landscape in a way that makes it appear to disappear into the desert. Maraya has hosted performances by some of the world's greatest artists, including Andrea Bocelli and Lionel Richie, and it has become a symbol of Saudi Arabia's cultural ambitions.

Practical Information

AlUla is served by Prince Abdul Majeed bin Abdulaziz Domestic Airport, with direct flights from Riyadh, Jeddah, and other Saudi cities. International visitors can also fly into Medina and drive to AlUla (approximately 3 hours). The best time to visit is between October and April, when the temperatures are comfortable for outdoor exploration. The Royal Commission for AlUla has developed a range of accommodation options, from luxury desert camps to boutique hotels, and the destination's infrastructure is improving rapidly as investment continues.