Exploring AlUla: A Journey into the Must-See Destination of 2023

AlUla has served as a pivotal cultural intersection for nearly 200,000 years. With Saudi Arabia welcoming international visitors since 2019, the enigmatic allure of AlUla presents a unique and enriching escape for your clientele.

It's no wonder that AlUla has swiftly become one of the premier locations for discovery worldwide. Home to Saudi Arabia's inaugural UNESCO World Heritage Site, AlUla is replete with stunning natural wonders, a vibrant art community, and some of the country's most opulent accommodations. As interest in this destination surges, we've compiled our top recommendations for experiences that will stand out in any travel itinerary you design.

Discover Hegra

The inhabitants of Hegra, the historic capital of the Nabataean Kingdom, left behind a treasure trove of evidence showcasing the sophistication of their culture, especially through the monumental tombs and petroglyphs that form the city's nearly one-mile Rock Art Trail. As travelers delve into the remnants from the Bronze Age to the Roman Empire, and into the subsequent Islamic period, they will discover a wealth of inspiration in the area's winding ghost towns and verdant oases. If you plan a visit from January to March, guests can partake in Hegra After Dark, featuring chariot rides amidst the illuminated tombs.

With so much untapped history to absorb, local guides offer invaluable insights. Consider Tistahel, who can enhance their existing three-day tour of AlUla to tailor a journey that aligns perfectly with any client's interests.

Enjoy the sunset at Elephant Rock

Just a few minutes from Hegra, Jabal Alfil—commonly known as Elephant Rock—is an intriguing geological formation shaped over millions of years by erosion, serving as one of the most recognizable symbols of modern AlUla. As dusk descends on Hegra, visitors can settle into the comfortable sunken lounge seats around Elephant Rock to witness one of the most breathtaking sunsets in the country. Additionally, travelers can enhance their experience by stargazing with Husaak Adventures, who can organize a campfire dinner and celestial viewing at the nearby Gharameel.

Browse the Old Town Market

Old Town AlUla is actually quite modern, with current residents living in stone and adobe buildings that trace back to the 12^th century. The village warmly welcomes visitors, especially at its historic market, where they can bring home a piece of history.

After arriving at the uninhabited section of the old town via a zero-emission autonomous pod (similar to electric jitneys), a local guide will help everyone explore these historic ruins safely and sustainably. Once back at the Old Town Market, visitors can wander through hundreds of shops offering traditional handmade crafts, art, and local cuisine, culminating in an authentic Saudi lunch at a restaurant like the contemporary fine dining establishment, Suhail.

Explore Dadan in a vintage Land Rover

A must-visit for history enthusiasts, the ancient capital of the Dadan and Lihyan Kingdoms dates back to the first millennium C.E. Guests can observe evidence of their reign in the well-preserved inscriptions carved into the walls of red rock tombs, flanked by detailed lion sculptures.

Your clients can experience the city in luxury with a classic convertible Land Rover, accompanied by an educational guide. Tours last for two hours and feature a guided exploration of Jabal Ikmah, a mountain adorned with petroglyphs and thousands of inscriptions in ancient pre-Arabic languages, including one of the earliest known examples of written Arabic.

Experience a concert at Maraya

Maraya symbolizes the promising future of AlUla, which is rapidly establishing itself as one of the most vibrant cultural hubs in the Middle East. Cloaked in nearly 10,000 mirrored panels, this avant-garde building mirrors the surrounding desert landscape, attracting those fascinated by innovative architecture. Even more exciting, the cultural center it hosts has drawn international icons like Yanni and Andrea Bocelli, creating a backdrop for unforgettable vacations.

Perched atop the complex, Maraya Social offers a dining experience crafted by Michelin-starred British chef Jason Atherton. Showcasing farm-to-table dishes in an unmatched atmosphere, its menu presents creative interpretations of Arabic cuisine. Reservations are highly recommended.

Experience a contemporary art exhibition

Beyond being a concert venue, Maraya also features film screenings, mixed-media performances, and art residencies. For clients passionate about art, it's essential to align their visit with the venue's schedule, which, until May 16, 2023, highlights FAME, an extensive showcase of Andy Warhol’s most renowned works, created in collaboration with the artist’s hometown museum in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

For those keen on other modern exhibitions, there are plenty to enrich a visit, including the month-long, traditional Winter at Tantora Festival, celebrated annually from December to January. On a grander scale, the ‘Valley of the Arts,’ or Wadi AlFann, will feature large-scale, immersive installations designed to harmonize with the ancient landscapes upon its completion in 2024.

Resting in an oasis

When it comes to luxury accommodations, travelers have an abundance of options in AlUla, with Habitas offering a distinctive combination of privacy, design, and sustainability. Nestled in an exclusive bungalow within an oasis, guests are surrounded by stunning sandstone formations, palm trees, and a stylish, serene pool. For those who favor a more communal experience, the resort also boasts a nearby caravan complex featuring outfitted Airstreams, along with DJ and film nights under the stars, ensuring there’s always something new to explore in this ancient landscape.