Tourism in Al-Ula 2025: A guide to winter events and historical sites
In the northwestern corner of Saudi Arabia, AlUla stands as a testament to the grandeur of history and the beauty of unspoiled nature. More than just a passing tourist destination, AlUla is a vast open-air museum where ancient civilizations converge with the Kingdom's vision for the future of global tourism. With the arrival of winter, the region dons a unique ambiance, blending the coolness of the weather with the warmth of Arabian hospitality, making it the perfect haven for those seeking extraordinary experiences.
Historical depth and strategic location
Al-Ula derives its historical significance from being a crossroads of ancient trade routes, particularly the Incense Route, which connected southern Arabia with its north and the Mediterranean Sea. More than just a transit point, Al-Ula was home to ancient kingdoms such as Dadan and Lihyan, before the Nabataeans established it as their southern capital after Petra. This historical depth inspires awe in visitors as they wander among ruins that have endured for millennia, telling stories of peoples who mastered the art of carving into the mountains and harnessed the harshness of nature to their advantage.
Winter at Tantora: Reviving Heritage with a Modern Spirit
As winter arrives, AlUla transforms into a vibrant stage with the Winter at Tantora Festival, the highlight of AlUla’s annual calendar. The festival redefines the relationship between visitors and the place, with the journey typically beginning in the Old Town. There, visitors can wander through meticulously restored, labyrinthine mud-brick alleyways and visit the Dar Tantora Hotel, which embodies traditional living. No visit is complete without ascending to the historic fortress, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of palm groves stretching like a verdant carpet across the golden sands.
Al-Hijr: The first World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia
The ancient city of Hegra remains the crown jewel of any visit to AlUla, and the first Saudi site to be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Visitors stand in awe before the massive rock-cut facades of Nabataean tombs, such as Qasr al-Farid, renowned for their intricate architectural details and inscriptions that reveal the secrets of Nabataean civilization. To enhance the experience, the Royal Commission for AlUla offers interactive tours in classic Land Rover vehicles and audio tours in several languages, seamlessly connecting the past with the present through innovative technology.
Mirrors Hall... Art in the heart of the desert
In Wadi Ashar, modernity shines in its most splendid form with the Maraya Hall, a building that entered the Guinness World Records as the largest mirrored building in the world. Its facade reflects the beauty of the surrounding sand dunes, making the hall an integral part of nature. This season features international and Arabic musical evenings, with audiences eagerly anticipating concerts by top stars such as Wael Kfoury and Elissa, in an experience that blends musical sophistication with the enchanting ambiance.
Sports experiences and exclusive offers
Tourism in AlUla isn't limited to history and art; it extends to sports and adventure. The region hosts the AlUla Desert Polo Championship, attracting elite international riders and offering a blend of competitive sport and luxury. Alongside this tourism boom, the Saudi Tourism Authority's initiatives further enhance the appeal of visiting through the "Genak Bzod" platform, which offers exclusive packages and discounts including flights and accommodation. This makes it easier for visitors from within the Kingdom and abroad to explore AlUla's treasures, enjoy the Ancient Kingdoms Festival, and experience the award-winning Incense Route.
