Nestled in the northwestern desert of Saudi Arabia, AlUla Old Town Village (or Ad-Deerah) is an enchanting destination that transports you to the past, stretching many centuries. It is in this valley where the medieval world coincides with modern exploration, documenting human and natural heritage like nowhere else. As one of the earliest settlements in the country, AlUla Old Town stands as a living museum that offers a rare and intimate glimpse of rich Saudi history and culture. This Arabian gem is a treasure trove of ancient wonders and modern architectural marvels that promise immersive experiences for everyone, especially for history enthusiasts. Get ready to experience the old-world charm and natural beauty of AlUla Old Town up close!
Discover AlUla Old Town Village of Saudi Arabia
AlUla Old Town is not just a place but a story waiting to be discovered. Inhabited for over 800 years, AlUla Old Town is now a well-preserved heritage site, which reveals the history of different human civilizations that once thrived here. From narrow alleyways lined with mud-brick houses to traditional markets and mosques, each corner of this walled village is steeped in a rich past and unique cultural charm. However, AlUla has so much more to offer to the travelers. AlUla Old Town Village is situated on a higher part of the valley, surrounded by an expansive desert, striking rock formations, and lush oases. Through an incredible blend of historic indulgence, cultural revival, and natural beauty, AlUla promises an unforgettable experience filled with magical discoveries and lasting memories for every visitor. Well, here’s our guide to tune into the pulse of AlUla!
The Rich History of AlUla Old Town Village
Established in the 10th century, AlUla Old Town once thrived as a key trading hub in the Medina Province of Saudi Arabia. Settled along the ancient Incense Route, the village was abandoned in the 1980s when its residents relocated to the nearby modern town of AlUla following the government orders to preserve it as an archaeological site. The site features 900 mudbrick houses, 100 of which have been renovated using traditional methods. There are about five town squares (also known as rabhas) and around 400 shops, each showcasing the best-preserved architecture that has withstood the test of time. In 2022, AlUla Old Town Village was recognized by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) as one of the world’s best tourism villages.
Location: JWG7+6X4, AlUla 43562, Saudi Arabia
Visit Hours: 24/7
Entry Fee: Free
Best time to visit: October to March
What to Expect In & Around AlUla Old Town
Old Town is the living heartbeat of AlUla, taking you on a unique journey that blends natural beauty, culture, history, and modernity. Here are the key attractions to see in and around AlUla Old Town Village:
1. AlUla Castle
Also known as Mousa Bin Nusair Fort, AlUla Castle is a key attraction to include in your AlUla Old Town tour. This fort was constructed in the 6th century to defend this town, using quarried sandstone from a nearby hill. Located on the eastern edge of AlUla Old Town Village, it is perched atop a large rock outcrop overlooking a deep canyon and the surrounding oasis. In the past, the castle spanned up to the edge of the oasis. The stairs are beautifully carved into the rock, allowing the sightseers to explore the different levels of this historic fort. The platform where the town crier would make announcements to the village below still exists. The lookout point at the top of the structure offers breathtaking views of the northern and southern parts of AlUla Old Town.
Location: AlUla 43562, Saudi Arabia
Visit Hours: 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
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2. AlJadidah Arts District
Overlooking the AlUla Old Town Village, AlJadidah Arts District is the vibrant cultural hub showcasing a blend of traditional art and rich history in a stunning backdrop. This pedestrian-friendly area features a maze of art galleries, studios, and creative spaces that exhibit local artistry through traditional crafts and modern installations. The most popular spot is the rust-colored Design Space AlUla, known for displaying design initiatives from the region and promoting democratic creativity for diverse cultural backgrounds. AlUla Public Library is the place to indulge in workshops and events to discover the diverse facets of AlUla, especially its art culture. Moreover, the district has several cafes, restaurants, food trucks, and unique shops offering a taste of AlUla's culinary scene, especially artisanal coffee.
Location: JWJ7+56H, Aljadidah, AlUla 43523, Saudi Arabia
Visit Hours: 24/7
3. AlUla Oasis
Surrounded by towering rock formations, AlUla Oasis is a lush sanctuary nestled in the golden desert expanse of Saudi Arabia. This stunning oasis features a 6km trail lined with over 2.3 million date palm trees, 2 lakh citrus trees, and the native Moringa peregrina trees. It is a key destination included in the bestselling AlUla tour packages designed especially for indulgence in the rich cultural and ecological heritage of AlUla.
Location: AlUla 7453 DADD 2546 43523, Saudi Arabia
Visit Hours: 24/7
Entry Fee: SAR 35 Per Person
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4. Market Street
Running along the Old Town of AlUla, Market Street is an ancient trading route. This marketplace has been a prime shopping destination for the residents of AlUla for many centuries. It boasts a wide selection of restaurants, coffee shops, arts and crafts galleries, and jewelry stores where visitors can buy everything they need and indulge in a hearty meal in a traditional setting. Many local artisans also sell their products on wheeled trading stalls with umbrellas. The houses draped in bright carpets add a vibrant touch to this ancient market.
Location: JWG7+M7X, AlUla 43562, Saudi Arabia
Visit Hours: 8 AM to 12 AM (Daily)
Entry Fee: Free
5. Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil)
Often dubbed as the Jewel of the Desert, Jabal Al-Fil (also known as the Elephant Mountain) is a spectacular geological marvel featuring a unique elephant-like shape. Located around 11 km northeast of AlUla, this sandstone structure stands at a height of 117 ft and looks like an elephant touching the ground with its trunk. The structure was formed organically many million years ago through rain, wind, and sand erosion. Jabal Al-Fil is a must-visit for photographers and those interested in witnessing the beauty of nature at its best!
Location: AlUla 43521, Saudi Arabia
Visit Hours:
Sunday to Wednesday & Saturday – 4 PM to 11:40 PM
Thursday Friday – 4 AM to 2 AM
Entry Fee: Free
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6. Maraya Concert Hall
Set in the Ashar Valley, Maraya Concert Hall is a true architectural masterpiece amid the desert canyon! This multi-purpose theatre and entertainment venue has been designed by Italian German architectural and design team named Giò Forma and Black Engineering. It features a cubic and reflective structure that merges into the backdrop, creating a mesmerizing gaze. In 2019, the Guinness World Records declared Maraya Hall as the world's largest mirror-clad building, designed using 9,740 mirrored panels on its exteriors. The 500-seat venue hosts several live musical concerts, performing arts shows, operas, meetings, business events, especially during AlUla Moments.
Location: Al Atheeb 43552, Saudi Arabia
Visit Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: Free (Depends on the Event/Concert)
7. Hegra (Mada’in Salih)
Located about 26 km from AlUla, Hegra (also known as Mada’in Salih or Al-Ḥijr) is among the most popular places to visit in Saudi Arabia. In 2009, Hegra was recognized as the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia. The archaeological site once was a booming global trade hub and the economic capital of the Nabatean kingdom. Today, it stands as a testimony to the fascinating history of the Nabataean Kingdom of the Arab world. Spanning over 13.4 km, the site features 131 well-preserved burial tombs of elite Nabataeans, dating to the 2nd century BCE. The ornate facades of the rock-cut tombs are decorated with epigraphs.
Location: AlUla, Saudi Arabia
Visit Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM (Last Entry at 2 PM)
Entry Fee: SAR 95 Per Person
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Significance of AlUla Old Town Village
AlUla Old Town Village is the centerpiece of the Vision 2030 initiative of Saudi Arabia, which aims to revive and reshape the country into a global beacon of history, cultural heritage, nature, and art. The last few years have seen AlUla turning into a prime international interest, embedding it as a significant cultural hub of the country and the world. The town has witnessed an increased inflow of historians and tourists alike, boosting tourism like never before. AlUla presents an incredible collection of historical marvels and natural wonders in a dynamic landscape. This ancient town reflects Saudi Arabia's commitment of Saudi Arabia to preserving the heritage of many civilizations for many generations to come!
Unique Experiences in AlUla
Beyond history, AlUla offers a wide range of once-in-a-lifetime experiences that are unique in themselves and cannot be missed. These include:
Attend Winter at Tantora Festival
Celebrate the music, art, culture, and natural beauty of AlUla at this three-week-long festival hosted in the Old Town! The festival derives its name from a traditional sundial located right in the center of AlUla Old Town, which was the gathering point for residents to celebrate the beginning of the planting season. During the festival, you can enjoy cultural performances, music concerts, live orchestra shows, interactive activities, themed visual installations, ancient town tours, and food. This year, the festival is taking place from 19 December 2024 to 11 January 2025. The main highlights of the event include Sanaam AlUla Night, Tantora Old Town Celebration, Almanshiyah Carnival, and AlUla Citrus Season.
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Stargazing in the Desert Landscape
Venture into the desert landscape of Gharameel for the most magical stargazing experience! Take a stargazing tour to witness the spectacular views of the night sky of AlUla. Enjoy observing the stars and constellations in the dark sky with the naked eye or through a simple telescope. The best time to take the tour is between early October and late March.
Hot Air Balloon Rides Over the Desert
Taking a hot air balloon ride over the spectacular desert terrain of Alula is one of the best things to do in Saudi Arabia. This activity is a golden opportunity to view the dynamic beauty of AlUla from a whole different perspective. The flight takes you 1200 meters high above the landscape. Consider taking an early morning or evening flight for breathtaking sunshine and sunset vistas.
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Hiking and Exploring Sandstone Canyons
AlUla's sandstone canyons provide a perfect setting for an unforgettable hiking adventure in the desert. The trails range from beginner to challenging, allowing every adventure enthusiast a memorable experience. Trek through the narrow passageways, towering cliffs, and hidden valleys while taking in panoramic views of the rocky and sandy landscape.
Rich Culinary and Hospitality
AlUla is globally renowned for its exceptional hospitality and culinary scene. With luxurious accommodations and diverse dining options, the town assures an unforgettable stay for travelers. Farm-to-Table dinner is a must-have experience in AlUla, which allows you to enjoy authentic Arabian cuisine prepared with fresh local produce in a traditional setting.
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Rock Climbing
The rugged terrain of AlUla is an absolute heaven for rock climbers. Experience the thrill of plunging down the steep rocks of AlUla while being attached to a rope and harness. There is a variety of climbing routes available in AlUla, suitable for beginners and professional climbers.
Tips for Visiting AlUla Old Town
- Book your hotel well in advance
- Carry lightweight clothing and sturdy footwear for exploration
- Stay hydrated to get through the arid climate
- Be mindful of the local customs and dress codes
- Keep the camera handy to capture stunning landscapes and experiences
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AlUla Old Town Village is a must-visit destination for those seeking a glimpse into the past and more for those seeking to experience the essence of Saudi Culture. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or just a casual cultural explorer, AlUla Old Town has something for everyone. So, if you are looking forward to a trip to AlUla, explore our range of exclusively designed Saudi Arabia tour packages, and choose the one that best suits you. Book your adventure to AlUla today and get ready to witness the magic of this timeless treasure!
AlUla Old Town Village - FAQ’s
The best time of the year to visit AlUla, in Saudi Arabia is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds to allow convenient and comfortable exploration of this historic town. AlUla Moments, comprising several events and festivals, is also held during this period, making it even more ideal for visits.
Yes, several walking tours are available in AlUla Old Town Village, spanning about 1 to 3 hours.
Hegra, Elephant Rock, AlUla Oasis, Harrat Viewpoint, Jabal Ikmah, and Maraya are the popular tourist attractions to visit in AlUla.
Fly to Al-Ula International Airport (ULH), about 35 km from AlUla city. Further, take a taxi to reach the city center.
The popular activities to try in AlUla include a hot air balloon ride, night tour of Hegra site, Rock climbing, go hiking in the trails, and take a helicopter ride in the skies.
AlUla in Saudi Arabia is known worldwide for its ancient history, dynamic landscape, and wellness experiences.
No, there is no entry fee to enter AlUla Old Town Village in Saudi Arabia.
Kabsa, Al Harees, Jareesh, Matazeez, and Mutabbaq are the popular traditional foods to eat in AlUla.
There are several festivals to attend in AlUla Old Town, celebrating art, culture, music, and adventure. Popular ones include AlUla Arts Festival, Winter at Tantora, and AlUla Dates Festival, held as a part of AlUla Moments.
Some of the best things to buy in AlUla as souvenirs are antiques, scarves, pottery, trinkets, jewelry, and beauty products.
