Al Ula – Saudi Arabia´s timeless touristic treasure

A journey through ancient wonders and modern luxury

We are now coming to the final Blog of my Saudi Arabia series and of course I have saved the best for last. Al Ula is one of the most spectacular landscape sceneries that I have ever seen plus plays a significant historical role for Saudi Arabia. Over many years this place has been almost forgotten and the stunning rock graves were totally abandoned. However with the new tourism initiative and the new future approach of the country – Al Ula has become the main player on the tourism landscape for Saudi Arabia. Currently it is the number one attraction in Saudi Arabia and became already well-known far beyond the borders of Saudi Arabia.

Introduction

Nestled in the northwest region of Saudi Arabia, Al Ula stands as one of the world’s most unique and captivating tourist destinations. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient heritage sites and innovative hospitality, Al Ula has emerged as a must-visit location for travellers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion. This article takes you on a journey through the wonders of Al Ula, highlighting its historical significance, natural beauty and modern attractions.

How to reach

Although the Al Ulah region lies in a quite remote location its accessibility has increased a lot with the touristical uprise. Nowadays Al Ula is easily reachable via its international airport, although direct international flights are still on a very small scale. However the domestic flight network with Riyadh and Jeddah is very good and flight frequency is getting increased during the high season.

Also the road network to Al Ula has seen a make-over. From Madinah it will take you around three hours on well-maintained roads and through some nice desert landscape.

For our transfer we enjoyed the luxury of a GMC and we were driven by our wonderful guide Hassan. As we really enjoyed our three Al Ula days with him and as he showed us every hidden place in the area in a very professional way, I have promised to mention him specifically here in my Blog – so HASSAN – thanks a lot for the wonderful time we had with you!

Where to stay – Our Habitas (www.ourhabitas.com/alula)

We were staying at the wonderful Our Habitas Hotel - one of Al Ula’s standout accommodations.

The Our Habitas is a luxury eco-resort nestled amid the region’s dramatic sandstone landscapes. Designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings, the hotel features spacious villas that blend modern comfort with traditional Arabian aesthetics.

The rooms are shaped like tents and are equipped with all amenities of a luxury resort. I liked the cosy ambiance of our room very much – especially the open bathroom concept. Lighting of the room was perfect and it was a real pleasure to enjoy our desert nights on the wide terrace. The view onto the canyon was also spectacular.

The hotel really tries to give you the feeling that you are out in nature away from the modern world – so make a guess on what this is?

Nope, it´s not a treelike-rock it is actually the mobile phone mast in camouflage 😊

The resort is huge and spread all around the canyon – so for us the pool and restaurant area was quite far away, but you can order a buggy at any time.

At Habitas guests can unwind at the spectacular infinity pool, dine under the stars and immerse themselves in curated wellness experiences, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the desert and surrounding cliffs. Habitas Al Ula is committed to sustainability and cultural connection, offering a unique blend of relaxation, adventure and authentic hospitality in the heart of Saudi Arabia’s ancient oasis.

We enjoyed our breakfast and dinner at the main restaurant with a nice ambiance and a very good food selection.

As I mentioned Habitas is only one hotel out of a selection of newly built hotel resorts in the area. I can further recommend Banyan Tree (www.banyantree.com/saudi-arabia/alula) or the Chedi Hegra (www.ghmhotels.com/en/the-chedi-hegra).

For a different experience check out the luxury Caravans that also belongs to the Habitas Group (www.ourhabitas.com/caravan-alula)

Or try the Heritage Hotel Dar Tantora (www.dartantora.co) in the heart of Al Ula Town.

Further recommended possibilities would be Cloud 7 (www.cloud7hotels.com/alula/) or Sahary Resort (www.saharyalularesort.com/en/).

What to see

First a few sentence to the historical significance of Al Ula: Al-Ula’s history stretches back thousands of years, with evidence of human settlement dating to the Neolithic period. The region’s most renowned heritage is associated with the ancient city of Dadan, capital of the Dadanite and Lihyanite kingdoms (circa 9th century BCE to 1st century CE). These kingdoms controlled vital caravan routes that transported incense, spices, and luxury goods between southern Arabia, Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Mediterranean. The Dadanites and Lihyanites are celebrated for their advanced irrigation systems, monumental tombs and intricate inscriptions, many of which survive until today.

Know before you go

A visit to the historical sites of Al Ula is only possible with a guided tour. If you come with your personal driver/guide or also with your rented car, you can only reach to the specific info and visitor centers from which the organized tours depart. In Dadan and Hegra you have the choice of various tours starting from guided tours in a regular bus over tours in vintage jeeps or a private tour – the choice is yours. All tours can be booked online and are based on a slot system. If you visit during the peak season it is recommended to book your tour well in advance.

Dadan & Ikmah

Before the rise of Hegra, Dadan was the capital of the ancient Dadanite and Lihyanite kingdoms, flourishing between the 9th and 2nd centuries BCE. Located in a lush valley south of Al-Ula, Dadan became a prominent centre of trade, religion, and governance. The site is renowned for its rock-cut tombs, statues and inscriptions in both Dadanitic and Lihyanite scripts, highlighting the region’s importance as a crossroad for caravans and cultural influences. Archaeological discoveries at Dadan continue to shed light on the sophisticated societies that thrived here long before the Nabataeans.

After the visit of the Dadan sites your tour will bring you over to the desert canyon of Jabal Ikmah where you can see some impressively well-preserved ancient rock inscriptions.

After the tour it´s hands on for you – with some experienced instructors you can carve your own stone to take it home as a souvenir.

Book your tour @ www.experiencealula.com/en/places-to-go/dadan

Hegra (Maidan) Salih – an UNESCO World Heritage Site

Just north of Al-Ula lies Hegra the southernmost outpost of the Nabataean Kingdom. Dating from the 1st century BCE to the 1st century CE, Hegra is home to more than 100 monumental rock-cut tombs with elaborate facades, reflecting the distinctive Nabataean architectural style also seen in Petra, Jordan. In 2008, Hegra became Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding preservation and historical importance.

For those of you who have been already in Petra – I would not say that Al Ula is better, it is different. But for me with the breathtaking desert and rock landscape around it felt a little bit more impressive than my experience in Jordan. Plus Hegra is still at the beginning of its excavations, still a lot of tombs haven´t been found and as the area is huge the experience feels more unique as in the nowadays crowded Petra canyon.

Depending on the tour that you have booked you will see a selection of different tombs. Tours are conducted by bus, in vintage jeeps or as a private guided tour.

In any case the main highlight of each tour is the stunning Tomb of Lihyan, son of Kuza also known as the Lonely Castle. This 22-meter-tall, large rock-cut tomb is Hegra's most iconic and largest monument, left unfinished and is a significant example of Nabataean architectural skill.  

Below some pictures of our guided bus tour:

Stop 1

Stop 2 - Tomb of Lihyan

Stop 3

Stop 4

Book your tour @ www.experiencealula.com/en/places-to-go/hegra

Natural Beauty

As I have already mentioned the landscape above, I would name the natural beauty actually as one of the main touristic sites of Al Ula beside the historical heritage. The colours of the desert, the stunning rock formations that are completely different behind each corner make Al Ula a real special and absolutely unique place. To experience that all I recommend at least 3-4 nights in the area to see the historical as well as the natural sites in all its stunning beauty. Plus the landscape is so different in its appearance during the various sunlight hours of the day.

Can you see the rock face?

Further attractions

Elephant Rock

One of Al Ula’s most recogniseable natural landmarks is the Elephant Rock. Famed for its remarkable elephant-like shape formed naturally by millennia of wind and water erosion, the rock became an unique geological wonder. This massive sandstone formation stands majestically in the open desert, offering a breath-taking backdrop for photos, particularly at sunset when the rock glows with warm, golden hues. The area surrounding Elephant Rock is also a popular spot for picnics and evening gatherings, occasionally they also have concerts and parties in front of this fantastic backdrop.

On one side of the rock you can find nice seating areas and for your culinary delights you have some food trucks on site.

www.experiencealula.com/en/places-to-go/elephant-rock

Mountain View

To get an overall glimpse of the spectacular landscape of Al Ula, I highly recommend you the drive up to the Harrat View point. From there you can enjoy a spectacular view on the rocks and the desert around – especially at sunset this is a very popular point.

You also have a Mountain Café on site for some snacks and drinks. The road up to the viewing point is good to drive and in very good condition (a tar road throughout).

www.experiencealula.com/en/places-to-go/harrat-viewpoint

The Mirror

The Mirror, also known as Maraya, is another spectacular sight of Al Ula – however a man-made man one, but it blends perfectly into the landscape around. The reflections of the Mirror are breath-taking, I can´t describe it otherwise.

This striking structure holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest mirrored building, with its façade seamlessly reflecting the surrounding desert and rock formations. The effect is particularly captivating during sunrise and sunset, when the shimmering panels blend into the landscape, creating a surreal illusion.

Inside, Maraya hosts a range of cultural events, concerts and exhibitions, making it a hub for creativity and entertainment in the heart of Al Ula. However these events are on a non-regular basis and sometimes also not open to the public. For more information check out:

www.experiencealula.com/en/places-to-go/maraya

An option that is always available to enter the building would be a reservation at the famous Maraya Social restaurant:

www.experiencealula.com/en/places-to-go/maraya

I haven´t tried it myself, but I am sure that it is an excellent restaurant. Nevertheless I think the unique beauty of the Mirror lies more in its outer façade rather than from the inside.

Al Ula – Old Town

All that natural beauty and historical sites are for sure the main reason why tourists are coming to Al Ula – nevertheless let´s not forget about the little town of Al Ula itself, which has been partially restored in a very sensitive way.

Al Ula Town offers a charming blend of tradition and modernity, with its narrow labyrinth-like streets, mudbrick houses and bustling souks providing a glimpse into local life. Strolling through the Old Town, visitors can admire beautifully restored architecture, browse artisan shops for unique handicrafts and enjoy the warm hospitality of local residents. The town is also dotted with cosy cafés and inviting restaurants, perfect for sampling authentic Saudi cuisine in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re exploring historic alleyways or simply soaking up the laid-back atmosphere, Al Ula Town is a delightful complement to the region’s stunning natural and archaeological wonders.

Driving on the main road through the town you will see that one part is still not restored yet – but plans are in place to do that shortly.

www.experiencealula.com/en/places-to-go/alula-old-town

Al Ula Oasis

Further it is worth to take a stroll through the adjacent Al Ula oasis where you can walk under huge date palm trees that will shade you off from the sun and give you a fresh breeze.

The Al Ula oasis is a tranquil place nestled beside the town, offering a lush contrast to the surrounding desert landscape. Visitors are enveloped by towering date palms and flourishing gardens, creating a peaceful retreat from the arid environment. The oasis is not only a source of natural beauty, but also a vital part of the region’s heritage, having sustained local communities for centuries. Here you can observe traditional farming practices, spot native wildlife and enjoy the soothing sounds of water channels winding through the greenery. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, a picnic or simply to savour the serenity that defines Al Ula’s unique charm.

www.experiencealula.com/en/places-to-go/alula-oasis

Where to eat

Along the main road of Al Ula Old Town you have numerous options for your dining experience from Saudi cuisine over to all kind of international food. Beside the excellent food all these venues also have super nice set-ups and for cooler days very nice outdoor seating spaces.

It is really up to your individual taste and preferences. Check out your options here:

www.experiencealula.com/en/things-to-do/food-and-drink

I just wanna recommend two very special places:

Somewhere Restaurant

The first one is directly beside the Old Town of Al Ula nestled inside a small oasis. The food is amazing and very creative – a mix of traditional Saudi´s favourites with a modern twist. The tranquil outdoor set-up is fantastic and after your meal you can even have a small walk through the Somewhere oasis. Occasionally the restaurant sees also some celebrity dinners as well as members of the Royal Family.

www.experiencealula.com/en/things-to-do/food-and-drink/somewhere

Shalal Cafe

The second place is outside of town and actually a real hide-away. To reach the restaurant you need to walk first through a very narrow canyon that later opens up and gives way for a nice outdoor seating area surrounded by high cliffs and rock formations. What better set-up for your daily dose of coffein?

(They don´t have an official website, but you can find the place with google maps. The car park is beside the Waterfall Tourist Resort. From there you can see the gap in between the two big rocks. Walk towards them and you will find the entry to the Canyon).

So that´s it!!! It is time to say goodbye now for us not only to Al Ula, but also to Saudi Arabia. What a stunning trip – Saudi has impressed and surprised me a lot and was so very different from my imaginations that were to be honest not always positive in the past.

I can highly recommend to everybody to come and experience Saudi for yourself – you will be amazed plus I can confirm that you can travel safely (also as a female traveller) and you will feel very welcomed.

This is the end of my Blog series of Saudi – but for sure I will be back for more! This country is huge and there are so many other places to discover. This was just the beginning!!