A journey to a land that breathes history—beneath a sky so clear that no city light dims its stars, and among rocks that have told the story of humankind for thousands of years.
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A History Carved in Stone
AlUla is one of the oldest continuously inhabited regions in the Arabian Peninsula, boasting over 200,000 rock inscriptions dating back millennia, representing civilizations such as the Lihyanites and Nabataeans.
The most iconic site is Jabal Ikmah, known as “AlUla’s Open Library,” featuring inscriptions in multiple ancient languages, including Lihyanite and Thamudic. Even local souvenirs draw inspiration from these engravings—a symbol of enduring cultural identity.
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Skies That Celebrate the Stars
The Royal Commission for AlUla has designated the city as a prime destination for stargazing. Light pollution is carefully managed to preserve the clarity of the sky.
AlUla has hosted public astronomy events and witnessed rare cosmic displays, such as meteor showers and planetary alignments.
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Elephant Rock: Nature’s Icon
Sculpted by wind over millions of years, Elephant Rock stands as a majestic natural landmark. The area has become a lively evening destination with seating areas and outdoor entertainment.
This geological wonder is among the most photographed sites in AlUla.
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AlUla’s Nature Reserves
As part of its environmental stewardship, the Royal Commission established protected areas like Sharaan Nature Reserve, which safeguards species like the Arabian oryx and mountain gazelles.
These reserves meet global conservation standards and offer eco-tourism experiences like desert safaris and nature hikes.
⸻ Old Market with a Modern Soul
Souq AlUla, located in the heart of the old town, has been carefully restored to preserve its heritage while offering a modern visitor experience. Tourists can enjoy coffee, tea, or a traditional meal, and shop for artisan-made gifts inspired by the region’s culture and history.
The Royal Commission ensures authentic Saudi hospitality—offering Arabic coffee across the market—and provides eco-friendly transport such as electric shuttles and autonomous pods.
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Eco-Friendly Luxury
AlUla is home to a range of world-class resorts like Habitas AlUla and Banyan Tree, designed in harmony with the surrounding desert landscape. These lodges integrate sustainability into every detail, offering comfort without compromising nature.
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A Vision from the Heart of the Desert
From rehabilitating oases and planting millions of trees to turning AlUla into a global model of sustainable tourism, the Royal Commission is actively shaping the future of heritage travel as part of Vision 2030.
AlUla is not just an archaeological gem—it is a living example of balance between legacy and innovation.
Written by Aljawhara Minwer