AlUla, Saudi Arabia's hidden gem steeped in history, vibrant culture, and surreal landscapes, is a global destination for once-in-a-lifetime adventures. And AlUla Moments, which celebrates this magical destination every year, has returned for another season. AlUla Moments 2025 promises an even more spectacular celebration of ancient wonders, modern marvels, and signature experiences, showcasing the raw beauty and significance of this magnificent desert city. Taking place from 1 September 2024 to 25 April 2025, this exclusive winter extravaganza welcomes people from across the world to journey through time while also enjoying festivals, events, and fun-filled activities in a canyon setting. Get ready to witness the rich tapestry of the tradition of Saudi Arabia like never before through a captivating blend of historical exploration, art, music, and wellness at AlUla Moments 2025!
Experience the Essence of AlUla Moments 2025: Key Details, Tips & More
AlUla Moments 2025 is not just an event, but an invitation to explore one of the world’s most enchanting destinations – AlUla. The event has really got everyone talking, as it continues to unveil the incredible heritage, astounding discoveries, and unique culture of AlUla. At this festival, you will find everything, from music concerts, dance performances, sports competitions, and wellness events to cutting-edge heritage and art exhibitions. While you gear up to witness the grand cultural festivities in AlUla, there are so many details and storylines to look forward to. Let’s take you through the highlights of AlUla Moments 2025, including the festivals and events, attractions, distinctive adventures, and what makes this occasion an unmissable experience.
AlUla Moments: What is it All About?
AlUla Moments is an annual carnival highlighting what makes AlUla amazingly beautiful in the entire world! It offers a myriad of exciting festivals and events, each featuring a unique theme, immersive historical experiences, and thrilling activities. Launched in 2021 by Royal Commission, AlUla Moments has grown into a pinnacle of honoring the cultural heritage of AlUla and promoting cultural exchange and creativity in Saudi Arabia. The expansive desert, impressive sandstone formations, and green oases further provide a dramatic backdrop for the activities and festivals organized during this extravaganza.
Key details of AlUla Moments 2024-25
- Date: 01 September 2024 – 25 April 2025
- Venue: AlUla, Saudi Arabia
Key Events in AlUla Moments 2025
This year, AlUla Moments kickstarted with the Saudi National Day celebrations in September and has an enchanting lineup. Have a look at the epic calendar of AlUla Moments 2025 events:
1. Winter at Tantora (19 December 2024 – 11 January 2025)
The flagship event of AlUla Moments is set to return for another season but with enhanced experiences! Rooted in AlUla’s agricultural traditions, the 22-day festival captures the true essence of this Saudi region. The festival derives its name from the traditional sundial located in the heart of AlUla Old Town, where residents for many centuries would gather to celebrate the start of the planting season. It features historical theatre, musical performances, and art displays amidst desert scenery, bringing AlUla’s narrative to life while making every audience a part of the story. Watch the Old Town come alive with a festive spirit and immerse yourself into the uniqueness of AlUla!
Highlights:
- Immersive Theatre Experience (19 December 2024 - 25 January 2025)
- Tantora Old Town Celebration (20 December 2024)
- Sanaam AlUla Night (19 December 2024 - 25 January 2025)
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2. AlUla Arts Festival (16 January 2025 – 22 February 2025)
Organized in the AlJadidah Arts District, this four-week festival transforms AlUla into an open-air museum! Discover contemporary exhibitions and public art installations by renowned regional and international artists and learn about the evolution of AlUla’s art scene. The event also hosts music and dance performances to invoke a festive vibe at the venue. This year, it's the fourth edition of the AlUla Arts Festival, which will feature special talk sessions, workshops, and other programs. It will be held at multiple locations in AlJadidah and AlUla Old Town.
Highlights:
- Wadi AlFann
- Film and Photography Exhibition
- Ayman Zedani Film Screenings and Talk
- AlUla Artist Residency Programme
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3. AlUla Trail Race (23 January 2025 – 24 January 2025)
AlUla is gearing up to organize the 3rd edition of the Trail Race, the most exciting endurance race in the region, and it's going to be bigger than ever! The event is a massive marathon, wherein athletes challenge their physical and mental selves as they run through the Old Town Amphitheatre surrounded by the historic and spectacular landscapes of Saudi Arabia. The event is not just for specific-aged runners, but a wholly family affair. Anyone from six-year-olds to professional runners can take part in this marathon and push their limits while competing with runners from across the globe at AlUla Trail Race.
The different races to be hosted as a part of AlUla Moments 2025 are mentioned below along with their key details:
- Kids Race:
Date: 23 January 2025
Entry fee: SAR 45 per person
Age eligibility: 6 years & above
- Sunset Run (3 km)
Date: 23 January 2025
Entry fee: SAR 45 per person
Age eligibility: 13 years & above (children under 5 can join for free if accompanied by a parent)
- AlUla Oasis (10 km)
Date: 23 January 2025
Entry fee: SAR 140 per person
Age eligibility: 13 years & above
- Elephant Rock (23 km)
Date: 24 January 2025
Entry fee: SAR 240 per person
Age eligibility: 16 years & above
- AlMejdar (50 km)
Date: 24 January 2025
Entry fee: SAR 290 per person
Age eligibility: 18 years & above
- Hegra Hundred (100km)
Date: 24 January 2025
Entry fee: SAR 390 per person
Age eligibility: 18 years & above
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4. The AlUla Falcon Cup (9 February 2025 – 15 February 2025)
Get ready to witness the world’s largest falconry event in AlUla, but with a little twist! This event boasts the traditional art and practice of falconry that has been a part of the culture of the Middle East for civilizations. The first-ever AlUla Falcon Cup was organized at AlUla's Mughayra Heritage Sports Village from 28 December 2023 to 5 January 2024, and this year, it's the second edition of this tournament. Daily races are held during this week-long event wherein more than 2,000 elite falcons, including the most sought-after species and sub-species, take part. Watch the international competitors showcase their mastery of this traditional sport. And for the winners, the prizes are huge!
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5. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup (February 2025)
This is a flagship equestrian event, which tests the strategy and stamina of man and horse against time and other elements. The custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup hosts a 120-km horse race, organized each year by the Royal Commission for AlUla in collaboration with the Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation. It also features a wide array of activities, live entertainment, and food options at the venue to ensure a fun day for the spectators. Gear up to watch the professional riders navigate through the unique and rugged desert terrain of AlUla and put up their best show to bag the winner's trophy!
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6. Ramadan and Eid (28 February 2025 to 29 March 2025)
Ramadan and Eid are two significant festivals that blend self-reflection and joy with colorful celebrations. While you get to experience the true spiritual traditions of AlUla through iftar parties in open-air venues, cultural activities, local folklore, and performances add to the festivities. Enjoy walking through the streets, all decked up for the largest spiritual festivities of Islam. This year, experience the magic of Eid and Ramadan in the magical land of AlUla!
Other Festivals on AlUla Moments 2024-25 Calendar:
- Azimuth Festival (19 September 2024 to 21 September 2024)
- AlUla Skies Festival (26 September 2024 to 5 October 2024)
- AlUla Wellness Festival (17 October 2024 to 2 November 2024)
- Ancient Kingdoms Festival (7 November 2024 to 30 November 2024)
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Reasons to Visit AlUla Moments 2025
AlUla Moments is not merely about participating in a wide array of events, but it is about experiencing the rich art and culture of Saudi Arabia in its purest form. From folk dance and music performances to interactive workshops, every activity at AlUla Moments 2025 presents an authentic glance into the diverse heritage of the region. Moreover, the city is home numerous ancient sites like Hegra, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site of Saudi Arabia, and AlUla Moments bring these centuries-old landmarks to life, allowing you to connect with their past and significance in a more meaningful way.
Unique Experiences at AlUla
Beyond the historical activities and affairs, AlUla is known for offering a range of unique experiences that you will not find anywhere else.
- Maraya Concerts
The venue features the Maraya Concert Hall, which hosts a lineup of live musical performances during AlUla Moments. Expect diverse genres, from classical and jazz to contemporary pop and traditional Arabic music. The Concert Hall in itself is an architectural masterpiece with its mirrored exterior that seamlessly merges into the desert in the backdrop.
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- Garden of Moments, Al Ula
The Garden of Moments at Al Ula offers an experience that you'll find nowhere else! This innovative space allows visitors to immerse themselves in multi-sensory experiences. With a nature-inspired design, tranquil spaces, and interactive art installations on unique themes of time, like memory, and human connection, Garden of Moments keeps the visitors both engaged and amazed. Additionally, it hosts regular events, workshops, and performances that celebrate the rich heritage of AlUla and encourage creativity among the residents.
- Hot Air Balloon Rides & Nature Activities
Capture the beauty of the otherworldly landscapes of AlUla from above in a hot air balloon, which is also one of the best things to do in Saudi Arabia. Take a flight early in the morning to experience the breathtaking views as the sun rises over Hegra. Additionally, you can go hiking on the trails of AlUla and enjoy mesmerizing views of sandstone cliffs and the skyline.
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- Exclusive City Tours
When in AlUla, take advantage of private tours to archaeological sites, museums, and historic buildings, allowing you to experience the best of this beautiful Saudi Arabian city. Stroll through the traditional marketplaces, reveal so much about AlUla's culture and its people. Browse elegant antiques, local handicrafts, and souvenirs as memoirs of AlUla.
- World-Class Hospitality & Culinary
Over the years, AlUla has developed into a prime destination for global visitors for many reasons, with the hospitality and culinary contributing largely to the city’s growing popularity. AlUla offers luxurious accommodations, fine dining opportunities, and seamless commute to make your stay in the city an unforgettable experience. From accommodation at a high-end resort or in a glamping tent to dining in a local restaurant or an upscale venue, everything in AlUla is as unique as the city itself. Don’t miss out on a Farm-to-Table dinner, where you can relish Arabian cuisine made from fresh local produce in a traditional setting.
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Tips for Planning Your AlUla Moments 2025 Trip
- Book your hotel in advance since accommodations fill up quickly during AlUla Moments
- Wear lightweight clothing and sturdy footwear for desert exploration
- Be mindful of the local customs and dress codes of Saudi Arabia
- Keep yourself hydrated to get through the arid desert climate
- Carry your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and memorable experiences
AlUla is one of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia, and AlUla Moments makes it even more inviting. Whether you are an adventure seeker or a true history enthusiast, AlUla Moments events 2025 have something to offer for every visitor. So, if you are looking forward to becoming a part of this huge cultural celebration, book your Riyadh tour packages today and get ready to immerse yourself in the dazzling world of AlUla where Saudi music, art, food, and culture create magic!
AlUla Moments 2024 - FAQ’s
AlUla Moment 2025 is a series of events that showcase the heritage and culture of AlUla and Saudi Arabia in the most authentic manner, leaving a significant impact on the international audience. This event is driven by the objective to promote tourism and cultural exchanges, which will help Saudi Arabia not only retain its authentic essence but also facilitate in achievement of Vision 2030.
Yes, all travelers (except Saudi Arabia citizens) need a visa to visit AlUla. Additionally, the passport must be valid for a minimum of six months beyond the date of return from AlUla.
The top attractions you must not miss on your trip to AlUla are AlUla Old Town, Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil), AlUla Oasis, Harrat Viewpoint, AlUla Museum, and Hegra.
At AlUla Moments 2025, you will experience a wide range of cultural festivals, activities, live entertainment, dining, and equestrian events.
The popular traditional Saudi dishes to eat in AlUla are Kabsa, Mutabbaq, Al Harees, Jareesh, Falafel, Hummus, Tabbouleh, Mansaf, Mulukhiyah, and Baba Ganoush.
To get to AlUla, take a direct flight to the Al-Ula International Airport (ULH), located about 35 km from the heart of the city. Further, you can take a taxi to reach the city center.
The best luxury hotels to accommodate in AlUla for an amazing experience are Banyan Tree AlUla, Dar Tantora The House Hotel, Our Habitas AlUla, Cloud 7 Residence AlUla, and Shaden Resort.
Al Qatt Al Asiri art, palm fronds, Saudi fashion and accessories, natural essential oils, homemade perfumes, traditional sculptures, antique pieces, and beauty products are some of the best souvenirs to buy in AlUla.
Old Town Market Street, Deerah Souq, Kingdom Centre Mall, House of Otta, The Pure Village for Oil Press, and Madrasat AdDeera are some popular destinations to indulge in a memorable shopping experience in AlUla.
The best time to visit AlUla is during the winter season from October to April with pleasant weather. AlUla Moments is also held during this period, which makes it even more ideal time to dive into Saudi Arabia's culture and history.
