Winter at Tantora Festival kicks off in Al-Ula: World-class heritage and arts events
Amidst a captivating winter atmosphere steeped in history, the Winter at Tantora Festival in AlUla, marking the start of an exceptional cultural and entertainment season that will run until January 10, 2026. This festival reinforces AlUla's position as a global tourist destination, offering visitors a comprehensive experience that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia, blended with cutting-edge arts and contemporary events.
A variety of activities that evoke heritage and appeal to the senses
This year's festival boasts a packed schedule of events catering to diverse tastes, including a wide array of cultural and artistic programs. Highlights include "Old Town Nights," which recreates the vibrant atmosphere of AlUla's old alleyways, and "Tantora Balconies," offering visitors breathtaking panoramic views. The festival also features innovative artistic performances such as "When the Shadow Spots Us" and "Al-Manshiyah Carnival," as well as guided tours exploring the murals adorning the old town, and a special celebration of the "Year of Handicrafts," showcasing the skills of Saudi artisans.
Tantoura: A symbol of time and the lifeblood of agriculture
The festival's name is not arbitrary; it derives from "Al-Tantoura," the pyramid-shaped sundial located in the heart of Al-Ula's old town. Historically, Al-Tantoura was more than just a timekeeping device; it served as the primary reference point for the region's inhabitants, regulating their daily lives and agricultural practices. By observing its shadow, farmers accurately determined the start of the "Al-Murabba'aniyah" period, marking the beginning of winter, which in turn helped them allocate water quotas from underground springs and irrigate their date palm and citrus groves. The festival takes place annually to celebrate this traditional tradition of welcoming the bountiful season of agriculture, connecting the younger generation to their deep-rooted heritage.
Al-Ula: An open-air museum and a global destination
The Winter at Tantora festival holds immense significance beyond mere entertainment; it highlights AlUla as one of the world's most important archaeological sites. Home to Hegra, the first Saudi site to be inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List, AlUla lends the festival a profound historical and cultural dimension. These events attract tourists from around the globe to explore the stunning rock formations and Dadanite and Lihyanite inscriptions, further solidifying the Kingdom's presence on the international cultural tourism map.
Vision 2030 and the promotion of the tourism economy
The Winter at Tantora Festival is part of the “AlUla Moments” calendar, which directly contributes to achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The festival aims to diversify income sources by boosting the tourism and entertainment sector, creating job opportunities for local residents, and enhancing the quality of life. By combining world-class culinary experiences and sophisticated musical performances with local heritage, AlUla successfully offers a unique tourism product that rivals global destinations, making it an annual destination that visitors from within the Kingdom and abroad are eager to visit to enjoy its natural beauty and rich history.
