Welcome to AlUla

Marhaba! Welcome to AlUla

Discover AlUla – a time-capsule that is being opened to offer a new understanding of human history of the Arabian Peninsula. A must-visit destination for discerning travellers seeking meaningful, authentic travel experiences

Where is AlUla?

The vast region that comprises AlUla covers nearly 8,700 square miles of mostly untamed desert (about the size of Wales), though the majority of its sights are within 35 minutes of each other.

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It sits in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, about 650 miles northwest of Riyadh and 400 miles north of Jeddah, with its own international airport. AlUla is crucial to the success of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 – an ambitious tourism project that hopes to rocket Saudi into pole position among future global tourism players by presenting upscale travellers with futuristic travel experiences, mountain and desert adventures and other luxury pursuits.

A centre of civilisation

AlUla was once an important stop on the ancient incense trade route, at the crossroads of Asia, Africa and Europe, where weary travellers transporting precious cargos stopped to enjoy its legendary oasis. Thanks to its strategic position, AlUla is home to a series of historic sites spanning 200,000 years of human endeavour.

Hidden amongst its fiery Martian landscapes of shifting sands and monumental rock formations are thousands of archaeological sites, many yet to be uncovered, including the lost cities of Hegra – built by the same civilisation who founded sister city Petra in Jordan, and Dadan, an ancient pre-Arabic city carved out of the sandstone mountains.

Whether your clients want to channel their inner Indiana Jones and search for ancient tombs, get their adrenaline pumping by ziplining across canyons, taste the unparalleled hospitality of Arabia, enjoy the silence as they gaze at the desert’s clear night sky or watch an A-list concert in an otherworldly setting, AlUla has something for everyone.

Be prepared...

It’s never been easier to visit AlUla, but make sure you're prepared for this unspoilt desert destination.

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia launched its eVisa programme in September 2019, meaning tourists from 49 countries including the UK, can apply online through its eVisa portal (visa.visitsaudi.com) ahead of travel. Visas are granted within minutes. Independent touring is welcomed for both men and women.

Getting there & about

Fly into Riyadh or Jeddah on Saudia or British Airways and easy connections are available on Saudia domestically or on flynas. AlUla’s newly renovated international airport is approximately a 30 minute drive to most of the accommodation, taxis are available and we can provide transfers. Both low-cost carrier flynas and Emirates’ partner carrier flydubai offer direct services into AlUla from Dubai, providing a popular option of an Emirati/Saudi twin-centre holiday or a short break to AlUla. In October 2023, Qatar Airways added a bi-weekly Doha-AlUla service.

AlUla is easy to get around as most attractions are within 15-35 minutes drive of each other. Pick-up and drop-offs are usually included in our packages. There is limited public transport, taxis are available and you can hire a car from the airport.

When to go

AlUla is open year-round but, although it’s less humid than other Saudi cities, visitors may find the heat a bit much between June and August. The optimum time to visit is October to April, when temperatures are manageable and the biggest concerts are scheduled. It’s worth noting that the night temperature can drop fast in the desert and evenings can be surprisingly chilly. The terrain around AlUla can be uneven so a good pair of walking shoes is essential. If possible, schedule any visit for mid-week to avoid the busy weekends.

What to wear

Saudi Arabia has relaxed its rules for traditional dress and women may go without wearing a headscarf or abaya, but dressing respectfully and covering knees and shoulders is recommended. Swimwear should be worn strictly at the poolside.

Saudi Arabia is a conservative society and using bad language or raising your voice is considered extremely disrespectful.

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