Al Ula, one of Saudi Arabia's oldest cities, is home to a plethora of intriguing archaeological sites.The city that once used to be the prime location of the incense, spice, and silk routes that linked Arabia, Egypt, and India is now one of the must-visit destinations for history buffs and avid travelers. There are several fascinating places to visit in AlUla that truly are magical wonders. The heritage sites in the city don’t just take the tourists’ breath away; they also make them appreciate the skill and competence of the people who once built those sites.
Top Places to Visit in AlUla: Learn about the City's Ancient Heritage
It hasn’t been a long time since Saudi Arabia opened its doors for foreign tourists to explore the hidden gems in the country. From having Hegra as its first UNESCO World Heritage Site to the creation of natural wonders like the elephant rock, which is an incredible example of the natural forces of wind and water; there are some quite intriguing places to visit in AlUla. One of the oldest cities in Saudi Arabia, AlUla is an epitome of preserved heritage, rich culture, and an interesting history that must be explored by all travel enthusiasts.
- Hegra
- Dadan
- Elephant Rock
- Jabal Khuraibah
- AlUla Old Town
- Sparhawk Arch
- Danat Al Madayin Dates Shop
- ACME Restaurant
1. Hegra – Explore the Remnants of the Ancient City
Apart from being Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO Heritage Site, Hegra is also home to many fascinating things.The ancient city of Hegra is known to be home to the Nabataean tribe that used to trade primarily in incense. The highest point in Hegra is Jabal Ithlib, which was a scary place for Nabatean people. Many inscriptions, shrines, altars, and sanctuaries can be found within this mountain. Hegra is one of the most significant places to visit in AlUla which is not just the top spot for history buffs to unravel the mysteries of a city but also a prime location to enjoy a hot air balloon ride.
Top Attractions: History, UNESCO Site, and inscriptions
Location: Al Madinah Region, Al-Hejaz, Saudi Arabia
2. Dadan – An Ancient City that Thrived Against All Odds
Another gem in Saudi Arabia’s pocket is the charming ancient city of Dadan, which once used to be the capital of the Dadan and Lihyan kingdoms. The existence of this stone-built city can be traced back to the 9th and 8th centuries. Although there are over 10 tombs in the city that are carved into red-rock cliffs, the ‘lion tombs' are one of the top attractions among visitors. These are seated lion scriptures that depicted the burial sites of the civilization's elite members. This heritage site is one of the interesting places to visit in Saudi Arabia.
Top Attractions: Lion Tomb, history, and stone-built structures
Location: AlUla
3. Elephant Rock – Admire the Geological Wonder
If you are one of those travelers who look for naturally formed marvels in a new city, then you will be pleased with AlUla. There are so many such wonders in the city that have been formed with the pressure of wind and water over several decades. The Elephant Rock, or Jabal Alfil, is one such amazing spot in AlUla. This massive geological wonder is set in the golden desert sand of the city, and the way that it has been formed is a happy astonishment for many geologists. Many shows are organised near the Elephant Rock that show the formation of this beautiful rock in a short documentary style in a simple language.
Top Attractions: Rock formation, geological marvel, and history
Location: AlUla 43521
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4. Jabal Khuraibah - Designed to Astound Future Civilizations
Jabal Khuraibah, a mountain in AlUla, is an old fortress with ancient rock inscriptions and other fascinating features.What attracts the tourists the most at this location is the rock-cut tomb at the bottom of the peak. One of the things to do in Saudi Arabia is visit the location and witness the tomb of the lion, which is named after the two lions carved on both sides of the entrance. Another amazing attraction that brings many people to this ancient site is the gigantic headless sandstone statue in Kurabibi, curated with stone stairs.
Top Attractions: Rock-cut tomb, tomb of lion, and sandstone statue
Location: Al-Abwa
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5. AlUla Old Town – The Architecture that Stood the Test of Time
If you are a newlywed couple planning a honeymoon in Saudi Arabia, do not miss visiting the old town of AlUla to be enchanted by the ruins of a once-thriving town.The old town of AlUla has about 900 houses and 400 shops, which are spread across the location. The town is one of the most interesting places to visit in AlUla for history buffs and avid travellers to explore and learn about the lives of people who once lived there.It has been discovered that although the whole town has been built with mud and bricks, there is an advanced architectural technique that has kept a part of it thriving even today.
Top Attractions: History, ancient structure, and advanced architectural techniques
Location: 375, AlUla 43562
6. Sparhawk Arch – Witness Nature’s Magic
Located near Elephant Rock, Sparhawk Arch is one of the many geological marvels of the city of AlUla. It is easily one of the top attractions in AlUla that makes people from all over the world come and visit this piece of natural beauty. The arch exists around golden sand dunes and rocky outcrops that are of interesting sizes and shapes. One can climb the arch to get a good view; however, be careful of the slippery and steep climb. The whole view of the arch standing tall among other beautiful formations creates a mesmerising picture that is definitely click-worthy.
Top Attractions: Sand dunes, rocky outcrops, and geological wonders
Location: AlUla
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7. Danat Al Madayin Dates Shop – Get Your Hands on the Most Authentic Variety of Dates
When you plan your visit to any of the charming cities of Saudi Arabia, one of the souvenirs that you must bring back for the loved ones at home is the authentic and diverse variety of yummiest dates. And what better shop than Danat Al Madayin's, which sells some of Al-Ula's most delectable and flavorful dates?It is not difficult to find a wide variety of dates in the country; however, the quality, taste, and wide range of options that are found in Danat Al Madayin’s are hard to find anywhere else. Some of the best collections of dates that can be bought from the shop include anbara, khalas, mabroom, safawi, and many more.
Top Attractions: Diversity, flavor, and authenticity
Location: AlUla
8. ACME Restaurant – Savor the Traditional and Western Flavors
AlUla is a popular destination for people who want to try new flavours of international and traditional foods.One of the amazing restaurants in Saudi Arabia, ACME, fits right in with the aesthetics of the ancient city. The restaurants serve some of the most lipsmacking international dishes with a blend of AlUla’s magic in them. The rooftop restaurant is an interesting place to just sit and relax while chitchatting about the day’s adventures with friends and family. Tourists are advised not to miss some of the best food items on the menu, which include AMCE’s signature burgers, buffalo shrimp, mac and cheese bites, crispy chicken bao buns, and more.
Top Attractions: Seating, food items, and ambiance
Location: Old Town
So, if you are planning your next holiday and want to visit a city with an enigmatic charm, then pick AlUla in Saudi Arabia. The oldest city of the country is full of geological marvels, ancient cities with advanced architectural techniques, amazing exotic markets, and incredible restaurants that serve delicious international and traditional dishes. There are numerous places to visit in AlUla that have a distinct kind of magical charm that must be experienced at least once in a lifetime. And if you are planning to cover more cities, then take advantage of the Saudi Arabia holiday package and explore more of the country in a limited time period.
Places to Visit in AlUla - FAQs
Yes, there is a magical charm in the oldest city in Saudi Arabia. With a rich history and plethora of natural and ancient marvels, it will be quite an experience to witness all of it and then some more. Apart from that, the city also has some of the most incredible restaurants and markets to bring something back home.
Hegra is the first ancient city in Saudi Arabia that was declared one of UNESCO’s heritage sites. The city was home to one of the significant civilizations of the region, the Nabeteans, who played a vital role in trading incense.
3-5 days are more than enough time to visit all of the interesting places in AlUla and participate in all of the exciting activities.Tourists will also be able to visit the amazing restaurants that serve the most delicious food.
There is a long list of mind-blowing activities that can be experienced in Saudi Arabia.
- Dune bashing during the desert Safari in the Arabian desert
- Hiking in the mountains
- Indulging in water sports
- Taking a hot air balloon ride
- Enjoying delicious traditional food items
ACME Restaurant serves some of the most incredible food dishes, primarily from international cuisine but with an AlUla twist. The rooftop restaurant is also an amazing place for tourists to sit, relax, and binge while discussing their day.
Here are some useful tips to keep in mind while exploring Saudi Arabia.
- Always keep your passport with you
- Carry a water bottle
- Respect traditions and culture
- Try all the traditional dishes
There are several outstanding places in Saudi Arabia that must be visited to learn more about the rich heritage of the country.
- Umm Al-Qamari Island
- Qasr al-Farid, Hegra
- Al Rahma Mosque
- Dammam Corniche
- Asir National Park
Although it is not difficult to find a wide variety of dates in the country; the quality, taste, and wide range of options that are found in Danat Al Madayin’s are hard to find anywhere else. Some of the best collections of dates available in the shop include anbara, khalas, mabroom, safawi, and many more.
