What Makes AlUla, Saudi Arabia, a Unique Travel Destination
You’ll not be alone if you’ve never heard of the resort of AlUla Saudi Arabia. You’ll also not be alone if you’ve never thought of Saudi Arabia as a tourist destination. Furthermore, you’ll also not be alone if you know very, very little about the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
At Glamorous Gallivant, I’m always seeking out places that offer something rare—and AlUla delivers in every sense. In this blog, I want to show you why this extraordinary place deserves a spot on your bucket list.
I hope to introduce you to a little slice of paradise in the north west of this vast Saudi Arabian Kingdom. Visit my Destinations page on https://glamorousgallivant.com for further information on this unique resort and how to get to AlUla.
Firstly, a little History on the Resort of AlUla Saudi Arabia
The resort of AlUla is one of Saudi Arabia’s most breathtaking hidden gems. It’s a magical oasis of history, culture, and natural wonders. AlUla has been a crossroads of civilisations for thousands of years. It was a vital stop along the ancient Incense Route, where traders carried spices, silk, and other luxury goods between Arabia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean.
As you walk on the golden sand through this 2,000 year-old city carved into sandstone cliffs, you’ll feel you’ve stumbled onto the set of a fantasy movie.
The Petra of Saudi Arabia
The Nabataeans, the same people who built Petra in Jordan, left behind incredible rock-carved tombs in Hegra (Madain Salih), Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back over 2,000 years, these ruins provide a fascinating insight into the Nabatean civilisation.
However, unlike Petra, you won’t have to elbow your way through hordes of selfie-stick-wielding tourists.
What can You expect to See at the Resort of AlUla Saudi Arabia
AlUla is rightly famous for its dramatic landscapes. Towering sandstone formations, vast golden deserts, and lush green oases create a surreal contrast.
However, alongside the incredible backdrop of the region, is a vibrant Old Town. AlUla’s Old Town is a hub of artisan shops, cafes and restaurants. The redevelopment of this Old Town sits seamlessly alongside the mudhut remains of a bygone era.
Enjoy exploring the town and its labyrinth of alleyways before sitting down at the end of the day under the twinkling lights of one of its many first-class restaurants.
Ancient Times meet Modern Days in the Saudi Desert
The AlUla resort is at the heart of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 tourism initiative, aiming to transform this ancient desert region into a world-class cultural, adventure, and luxury travel destination. Massive investments are being made to preserve its rich heritage while creating sustainable, high-end tourism experiences.
AlUla Saudi Arabia is not just about the past—it is also embracing the future with cultural festivals, art installations, and luxury resorts. Andrea Boticelli, James Blunt, Mariah Carey and Usher are just a handful of artists who have performed here.
The region is witnessing the development of high-end accommodations, wellness retreats, and eco-tourism initiatives that aim to preserve its beauty while offering visitors a comfortable and immersive experience.
Nature’s Masterpieces Stand Proudly in the Al Ula Resort
Visiting Hegra is undoubtedly an unforgettable experience, however, Elephant Rock is also an incredible sight. Have you ever seen a real-llfe elephant made of rock? It’s a giant sandstone structure that looks exactly like an elephant, trunk and all.
The best time to visit is sunset. Grab a comfy seat at one of the outdoor lounges nearby, sip some Arabic coffee (or a mouthwatering burger from Salt), and watch the sky turn into a masterpiece of pink, orange, and purple hues. Pure magic.
Adventure Awaits in the Desert!
Think AlUla is just about history? Think again! This place is an adventure playground for thrill-seekers.
- 🚀 Hot Air Balloon Ride: Float over AlUla’s landscapes and watch the desert wake up at sunrise. Trust me, your Instagram feed will thank you.
- 🏜️ Hiking & Rock Climbing: AlUla’s canyons and mountains are perfect for an epic hike or climb. The views? Unreal.
- ✨ Stargazing: With no city lights to ruin the view, AlUla’s night sky is one of the best places in the world for stargazing. Lay back, spot constellations, and make a wish!
- 🔗 Zip-Lining: Soar over this incredible landscape at speed. Saudi’s longest and fastest zipline. Head first too for that extra adrenaline rush!
A Hub of Culture and Modern Attractions in the Saudi Desert
The Winter at Tantora Festival brings world-class music, art, and entertainment, making it a vibrant cultural hotspot. The uber modern, mirror-clad cube of Maraya is quite incredible. Rising up from the desert, this huge architectural masterpiece seems to take on a life of its own. It perfectly reflects the surrounding landscape and plays tricks with your eyes. Get your cameras out as you have great fun with the reflective optics.
Luxury in the Middle of Nowhere? Yes, Please!
After a day of exploring, you deserve a little pampering. AlUla Saudi Arabia is home to some incredibily cool resorts, like:
- Banyan Tree AlUla – Where luxury meets the desert. Think private villas, spa treatments, and unreal views.
- Habitas AlUla – A boho-chic eco-resort where you can wake up to sunrise over the desert and fall asleep under a blanket of stars.
- Caravan AlULa – Immerse with nature in luxury Airstreams providing every comfort. Fancy munching popcorn whilst watching a huge movie screen projected on the rock?
These resorts are standalone ‘go-to’ destinations but teamed with everything AlUla has to offer you will definitely not be disappointed.
Download the Experience AlUla App
This app is the official destination guide for AlUla, designed to enhance your visit by providing up-to-date information and seamless planning tools.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Exploration: Discover points of interest, including landmarks, dining options, festivals, events, concerts, and various experiences to enrich your trip.
- Personalized Account Management: Register or sign in to manage bookings, save preferences, and stay connected through newsletter subscriptions.
- Streamlined Booking and Payments: Enjoy an enhanced in-app booking experience with live availability, shopping cart functionality, and secure payment options like Credit Card or Apple Pay.
- Interactive Map: Utilize the app’s interactive map to filter and locate experiences, accommodations, concerts, and more, aiding in efficient trip planning.
If you are visiting Hegra or Dadan, you need to prebook your tickets. You are unable to just visit on your own and it is obligatory to go on an organised tour. There are plenty of time slots throughout the day but obviously during peak season it is busier.
Don’t worry tho’, when I say tour, it need only be 2-3hrs unless you like full day tours which are also readily available. You simply meet at Winter Park, some 20 mins from Hegra, park up and hop on your coach at your pre booked time slot.
The tours are extremely informative with guides explaining the history in perfect English. The transportation is also excellent with clean, air conditioned coaches. Water and toilets also available! In fact, all services in AlUla are really first class. They seem to have a formula that works exceptionally well.
Getting Around in the AlUla Resort
My recommendation would definitely be to hire a car at the airport. Driving in this area is easy and it gives you the independence to go at your own speed to soak in the stunning landscape. Plus petrol is SO cheap!
However, there are taxi and shuttle services that you can use if you would rather. Please see my Destinations page for more information on getting around in AlUla.
Why You Should Visit the AlUla Resort, Saudi Arabia
AlUla is a destination unlike any other, blending history, adventure, and culture into one unforgettable experience. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a nature lover, AlUla has something to offer. As Saudi Arabia continues to open its doors to tourism, now is the perfect time to explore this magnificent desert jewel.
Plan your visit to AlUla and embark on a journey through time and nature—you won’t be disappointed!
How do You Get to AlUla will give you guidelines on the best ways to reach this part of Saudi Arabia
My 3 Day Itinerary in the resort of AlUla Saudi Arabia
Day 1
Arrive at your accommodation and enjoy the day marvelling at your beautiful surrounds. If you’re lucky enough to stay in one of my suggestions above, you will be more than happy to wind down in your new home. Furthermore, you will have passed Maraya, the mirrored-clad structure rising from the sands, so you will have been compelled to stop, stare and snap those shots!
When you have a moment, on your downloaded AlUla App, book your tours to Hegra on one day and Dadan and Jabal Ikmah on the following day (or 1 full day if you prefer).
At sunset, if you can tear yourself away from your luxury oasis, drive to The Old Town. There is ample parking either side of the town with very regular, courtesy golf carts that transport you from the car park directly to the town.
Stroll around this vibrant area and enjoy a meal in one of the many restaurants. The town comes alive in the evenings as everyone wanders out for a stroll and some people watching.
Favourite Eateries:
- Somewhere – Mediterranean and definitely a favourite of mine
- Entrecôte Café de Paris – French
- Suhail – Middle Eastern cuisine
- 7Ribs – Steakhouse
Day 2
After a leisurely breakfast and maybe a dip, drive to the meet-up point, Winter Park for your Hegra tour.
Lunch at your accommodation or the Old Town.
Before sunset, drive up to Harrat Viewpoint. The entry is free and no ticket is required. If you like ziplines this is your place. The viewpoint overlooks deep canyons, the lush green Oasis and incredible rock formations as far as the eye can see. Enjoy the views and relax in the comfy seating as firepits are lit and darkness descends.
For dinner, depending on how you’re feeling, you are spoilt for choice. You can go high-end to establishments led by internationally acclaimed chefs who have earned Michelin stars elsewhere. Notably, Ducasse in AlUla or Maraya Social by Jason Atherton.
Or please go to my particular favourite Somewhere
Day 3
If you are not staying in the Ashar Valley, where Maraya is located, then you will definitely need to take time to visit it. However, access is restricted so you will have to tick a certain box before you’ll be able to witness this iconic, must-see structure.
Either:
- stay in one of the hotels in the Ashar Valley
- have a reservation at one of the restaurants in the hotels or the Maraya Social
- attend an event in the Maraya Concert Hall
- go on an arranged tour
Drive to the meet-up point, Winter Park, for your Dadan and Jabal Ikmah tour.
Drive to Elephant Rock. The entry is free and no ticket is required. At the base of Elephant Rock, you’ll find cozy outdoor seating areas with fire pits and comfy lounge chairs for relaxing and stargazing. There are food trucks (Salt is excellent) and cafés to help you enjoy the experience. Sunrise or sunset are fabulous here.
Evening time, you’ll probably be ready to just relax in the grounds of your luxury accommodation and marvel at all that you have experienced in this very special corner of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
