Winter at Tantora in Al-Ula: The magic of the old town's nights and heritage
AlUla, a jewel of Saudi Arabia’s World Heritage Site, continues to dazzle the world with its innovative events. The “Old Town Nights” event, part of the Winter at Tantora an exceptional experience that blends the charm of history with the allure of the present. More than just entertainment, this event is a cultural journey that delves into the collective memory of the place.
A complete cultural and sensory experience
In the heart of AlUla, specifically in the Old Town, the historic alleyways transform into a vibrant open-air stage. The event offers a rich experience, showcasing a diverse array of heritage and live performances, where folk tales connected to the people of AlUla intertwine with exquisite international and local culinary experiences. This atmosphere is inspired by the spirit of the place, drawing its unique character from the landscape of ancient mud-brick buildings and the historical landmarks they house, allowing visitors from around the world to explore the region's cultural heritage firsthand and interactively.
The Old Town: A Cradle of History
These evenings cannot be discussed without acknowledging the significance of the venue that hosts them. The Old Town of AlUla is a unique example of traditional architecture, boasting over 900 mud-brick houses and 400 shops, some dating back centuries. The town hosts this event in an open-air setting where this ancient architecture blends harmoniously with modern lighting and live performances, creating a complete visual and cultural experience that reflects AlUla's rich cultural identity and heritage.
Winter at Tantora: Reviving Heritage and Boosting Tourism
The “Old Town Nights” event is a key component of the Winter at Tantora Festival, which runs until January 10, 2026. The festival takes its name from the ancient pyramid-shaped sundial used by the people of AlUla to determine the agricultural seasons and the beginning of the winter season. The festival is a cornerstone of the Royal Commission for AlUla’s strategy to transform the region into a global tourism destination for arts, heritage, culture, and nature, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
The impact of the event on the cultural landscape
“Old Town Nights” contributes to establishing the area as a vibrant cultural hub and a key destination for visitors to the Winter at Tantora Festival. Through an intensive cultural program showcasing the diversity of arts and folk traditions, the event promotes local community engagement and revives the cultural memory of the residents, ensuring the sustainability of this heritage and its transmission to future generations, while presenting a bright and civilized image of the Kingdom to international visitors.
