Best Things to Do in Alula Saudi Arabia

An Underrated gem in the heart of Saudi Arabia

Alula found in the middle of Saudi Arabia, is a time capsule filled with ancient mysteries and breathtaking views that look like they were taken from a sci-fi film set. Imagine tombs older than your great-great-great grandparents, tall sandstone mountains that make you feel like an ant, and enough stargazing to make you wonder about the secrets of our universe. It’s a place where history meets adventure with a dash of wonder. Visitors can climb through canyons that resemble Mars or get fascinated by Nabatean carvings which are as old as Cleopatra. Alula attractions are simply waiting for you to ask yourself, "Wow, is this even real?”

Enter the world of the Bygone era here at Alula Old Town, an ancient city dating back to the 6th century. The town consists of mud, bricks, and stone houses along with an advanced irrigation and trade system. Now this place serves as a famous tourist spot, which is popular for its similarity to the Byzantine, Nabatean, and Roman empires. Visitors can enjoy a self-tour or they can hire a local Rawi (storyteller) to guide them through the tales and history of this epic town.

Elephant Rock, also known as Jebel Alfil, is a magnificent elephant-shaped rock structure that can be visited for free. Visitors can hire a rental car, and drive here to enjoy the lively ambiance with food stalls, music, and cafes serving delectable juices and smoothies (non-Muslim visitors should know that alcohol is prohibited in Saudi Arabia). Visitors can also bring snacks to enjoy in the comfortable lounging areas. Elephant Rock is open every day and has different hours. Once you visit this place don’t miss out on breathtaking sunset views from the rock, that’s the HIGHLIGHT!

Maraya Hall, one of the largest mirrored buildings in the world, is a truly unique place to visit in AlUla. This modern architectural marvel blends seamlessly with the desert surroundings, creating a captivating illusion. The name "Maraya" comes from an Arabic word meaning "mirror," and the design symbolizes the reflection of AlUla's rich history and culture. Maraya Hall primarily serves as a venue for a variety of events, including exhibits, operas, forums, and conferences.

With a view of the Old Town and lush date farms on one side and rocky formations on the other, Harrat Viewpoint provides one of AlUla's most breathtaking views. You can enjoy a top parking area with cozy seats, restrooms, and an on-site cafe after an exciting (mostly windy) journey up a twisted route. This short but steep journey is worth it because of the spectacular scenery and free-of-cost parking!

Revive the old history of Alula by traveling to Dadan and Jabal Ikmah. You can see the old structures of the Lion Tombs from Dadan, which was once the capital of the Lihyanite Kingdom as well as an important trading hub on the Incense Road. The Open Library at Jabal Ikmah offers an enigmatic window into ancient civilizations with its centuries-old inscriptions in ancient languages. For quick and easy transportation and a knowledgeable tour, visitors can schedule a half-day tour from Winter Park. It's surely one of the best things to do in Alula for History enthusiasts curious about ancient civilizations.

Adventure-seeking individuals will enjoy the Oasis Heritage Trail in AlUla, which offers a unique combination of nature and history. The trail consists of abandoned, but original mud dwellings that are being restored along the 10-kilometer trail full of beautiful palm trees and date farms. After a long day, hikers can relax at the quaint Pink Camel Cafe for a quick break along the route. This hike is perfect for anyone looking for a genuine historic experience surrounded by nature and offers a unique window into AlUla's past.

Under the roof of Dark Sky, Al Gharameel in AlUla provides a once-in-a-lifetime cosmic experience for stargazers. This three to four-hour trip is hosted by Husaak Adventures, providing raw and local experience with traditional grilled supper over a campfire with knowledgeable constellation interpretations. This astronomy experience is best on full moon nights when visitors are taken on a tranquil desert walk. Guests are encouraged to follow precautions by checking the weather, dressing in layers, and carrying a red light torch.

A small neighborhood with restaurants, cafes, and art exhibits can be explored across from AlUla's old mud homes. Vibrant local crafts like woven baskets and bright carpets brighten up this space even during the slower months. Visitors can check out stores offering local souvenirs and regional cuisine, making it an excellent place to take in AlUla's cultural charm. For a livelier environment, this neighborhood is worth visiting during the busier months.

Not every day do you get a chance to start your mornings up high in the sky! Book a ride at AlUla’s Hero Ballon Flights, which also offers hotel pickup and drop-off as well as an hour-long ride for just SAR 995. As an alternative, Eagle Adventures offers a comprehensive experience that includes a falconer-led ground tour and a small breakfast in SAR 1200, and the entire excursion lasts roughly three hours. Note that both of the alternatives rely on decent weather conditions.

If you feel like treating yourself and have a good budget, book a lavish stay at Habitat. This luxurious hotel offers a wide range of amenities, from rooms and suites to a distinctive camping experience, all while being tucked away in a majestic setting of orange cliffs. The overall services and access to special attractions like trampolines, a large swimming pool, and Maraya make it worth the price.