AlUla walking tour & city guide
Ancient tombs carved in desert rock.
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AlUla, in the desert of northwest Saudi Arabia, is a vast open-air museum of sandstone canyons and ancient civilizations. Its highlight is Hegra, Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hegra
Hegra was the second city of the Nabataean kingdom, after Petra in Jordan. More than 100 monumental tombs are carved into sandstone outcrops, many with decorated facades.
Old town and rocks
AlUla's old town is a maze of mud-brick houses. Elephant Rock is a giant natural arch, and Maraya, the world's largest mirrored building, reflects the desert.
A day in AlUla
Visit Hegra, Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO site, where more than 100 monumental tombs were carved into sandstone outcrops by the Nabataeans, the same people who built Petra. Then explore AlUla Old Town, a maze of mud-brick houses, and climb to the castle for a view over the oasis.
At sunset, go to Elephant Rock, a giant rock formation shaped like an elephant, and stay for stargazing in the desert.
Good to know
AlUla's sites are visited with pre-booked tickets and guided tours. Maraya, a mirrored concert hall, reflects the desert around it.
The best season is October to March.
Top sights in AlUla
- 1
Hegra
Nabataean rock-cut tombs.
- 2
Elephant Rock
A natural rock arch.
- 3
AlUla Old Town
Mud-brick houses and lanes.
- 4
Maraya
A mirrored concert hall.
- 5
Dadan
An ancient kingdom's capital.
Food markets & where to eat in AlUla
Old town
Cafés and restaurants.
AlUla farms
Citrus and date farms.
Desert camps
Dinner under the stars.
Food to try in AlUla
Dates
From AlUla's oasis.
Kabsa
Spiced rice with meat.
Moringa tea
A local herbal tea.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to AlUla
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in AlUlaCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in AlUla.
- eSIM for Saudi ArabiaStay online from the moment you land.
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