AlUla Travel Guide: Know About Top Attractions, Hotels & Restaurants

AlUla is one of the most special places to visit in Saudi Arabia. It is known for its ancient history, desert landscapes and peaceful palm-filled valleys. One of the main attractions of AlUla is Hegra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These large tombs were carved into sandstone cliffs over 2,000 years ago by Nabataeans. You can also see Elephant Rock, a giant rock shaped like an elephant, and explore the narrow streets of AlUla Old Town, which was once a busy stop for traders. The area is full of natural beauty, with mountains, canyons and quiet green spots. Tourists can enjoy walking tours, hiking and learn about the local traditions and culture.The best months to visit are October to March, when the weather is pleasantly mild for outdoor activities. Let’s dive into this AlUla travel guide to plan a memorable trip of your life.

AlUla Travel Guide: Must Explore These 7 Popular Tourist Destinations

1. Hegra (Madain Saleh)

Hegra is the most renowned archaeological site of AlUla. It was once a major city of the Nabataean Kingdom, who built Petra in Jordan. Hegra is home to over 100 tombs carved into large sandstone cliffs, many with detailed and beautiful designs. These tombs show how skilled Nabataeans were in art, building and planning. In 2008, Hegra became the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia. Tourists can explore the area, learn about its deep history, and take guided tours to understand the site better.

Visiting Hours: 9 am to 5 pm (All Days)

2. AlUla Old Town

AlUla Old Town is a historic village in Saudi Arabia that gives a real feel of the past. It has more than 900 old mudbrick houses, narrow streets and ancient mosques. People lived here for over 800 years until the 1980s. Today, the town is open for tourists who want to walk through its quiet alleys and learn about how people lived long ago. Many houses and buildings have been restored, and there are shops and cafés where you can relax and enjoy views of the nearby mountains. It's a great place to take photos and learn about local culture and history.

Visiting Hours: 4 pm to 11 pm (All Days)

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3. Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil)

Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil) is one of the most famous natural landmarks in AlUla, Saudi Arabia. This giant rock looks like an elephant with a long trunk touching the ground. It was shaped by wind and water over millions of years ago. The rock stands tall in the middle of the golden desert, surrounded by wide open spaces and beautiful views. You can visit this place to capture stunning snaps and enjoy the breathtaking sunset. The area is surrounded with local cafes and is often lit up during night, creating a magical atmosphere under the stars.

Visiting Hours: 4 pm to 12 am (All Days)

4. Dadan and Jabal Ikmah

Step into the past where mountains speak through carvings. Dadan and Jabal Ikmah are two of the most fascinating heritage sites of AlUla. Dadan was once the capital of the ancient Dadanite and Lihyanite kingdoms, going back to the 9th century BC. Here, you’ll find impressive tombs carved into red cliffs. Just a short drive away, Jabal Ikmah is known for its rock walls covered with hundreds of old inscriptions. These writings, in many ancient languages, offer a rare look into the local beliefs, trade and daily life of early Arabian people. Together, these sites look like a museum in the open air.

Visiting Hours: 9 am to 5 pm (All Days)

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5. AlUla Oasis

Tucked between golden cliffs and ancient sites, AlUla Oasis is a peaceful place full of life and greenery. This natural oasis has helped people live in the desert for thousands of years. Here, you can explore rows of palm trees, flowing water channels, and farms growing dates, lemons and herbs. A walk through the oasis is calm and refreshing, with shaded paths and quiet views. It’s also a great spot to know how the people of AlUla survived using nature’s gifts. Whether you enjoy nature or history, the oasis is a must- visit place during your trip.

Visiting Hours: 9 am to 5 pm (All Days)

6. Maraya Concert Hall

The Maraya Concert Hall is covered in nearly 10,000 sq m of mirrors. From a distance, it reflects the cliffs and sky, making it look invisible. Inside, the auditorium has excellent sound and design. Maraya hosts world-class concerts, cultural events and conferences. Some big names, such as Andrea Bocelli, Alicia Keys and OneRepublic have performed here. It was even used for the Nobel Laureates conference in 2020. As the world’s largest mirrored building, Maraya is both an artistic landmark and a symbol of AlUla’s growing cultural scene. Your AlUla travel guide can’t be completed without this place.

Visiting Hours: 9 am to 7 pm (All Days)

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7. AlUla Heritage Oasis Trail

The AlUla Heritage Oasis Trail is a great way to enjoy nature while walking through the desert. The trail takes you through quiet valleys, rocky paths and open landscapes. Along the way, you’ll see unique rock shapes, ancient carvings and desert plants. It’s a guided hike, so you’ll learn interesting facts about the area while exploring. The trail is not too difficult, but it’s best to wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and dress accordingly. This is a fun and safe way to see the natural side of AlUla, away from crowds.

Visiting Hours: 7 am to 5 pm (All Days)

AlUla Travel Guide: Best Hotels to Stay

1. Our Habitas AlUla

Our Habitas AlUla is a peaceful resort in the middle of the Saudi desert, surrounded by mountains and palm trees. The resort has around 90 private villas, each with outdoor seating and views of the valley.

Amenities include:

Outdoor swimming pool
Spa and wellness center
Gym
Restaurant serving Middle Eastern and local dishes
Free Wi-Fi
Concierge service and housekeeping
Airport shuttle on request
Bike rental

Check-in time: 3:00 PM
Check-out time: 12:00 PM (noon)

2. Shaden Resort

Shaden Resort is a luxurious property set among beautiful sandstone hills near AlUla. It offers about 120 rooms and villas, each designed for comfort with views of the valley or pool.

Amenities include:

Outdoor swimming pool
Spa, sauna, hammam, gym and massage rooms
Free Wi‑Fi in public areas
On-site restaurant, snack bar and poolside dining
Picnic area and garden with BBQ facilities
Airport shuttle (On request)
Room service, laundry, dry cleaning, ironing
Wheelchair access and safety features (CCTV, fire alarms)

Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 12:00 PM (noon)

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3. Banyan Tree AlUla

Banyan Tree AlUla is a high-end resort, set in the scenic Ashar Valley of AlUla. It offers 47 upscale tented villas, many with private pools and outdoor patios. Each villa is beautifully decorated with desert-inspired designs and local touches for a unique stay. Due to its popularity, it remains occupied during peak season, best to book in advance.

Amenities include:

Free Wi‑Fi throughout the property
Two restaurants (local and Thai cuisine)
Signature Spa and treatments using local ingredients
Fitness center and yoga sessions
Infinity rock pool set among the valley rocks, open 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Bike rentals and guided hiking trails
Stargazing experiences under the desert sky
Concierge and 24-hour front desk
Room service, laundry and ticket assistance

Check-in: 2:00 PM
Check-out: 12:00 PM (noon)

4. Sahary AlUla Resort

Located within the sandstone valleys near AlUla, this resort is a peaceful place to stay. It offers a mix of charming rooms and low-rise villas, each designed to make you feel at home among the desert views.

Amenities include:

Outdoor swimming pool with sun loungers
Spa offering wellness treatments
Cozy restaurant serving authentic dishes
Free Wi‑Fi in public areas
Free parking and airport shuttle (on request)
Room service, laundry and housekeeping
Picnic areas and relaxation zones

Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 12:00 PM (noon)

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5. Cloud7 Residence

Cloud7 Residence is a stylish bungalow complex, consisting of around 300 bungalow units in the AlUla desert. It is about 25 minutes from the airport. Each room includes a terrace, air conditioning and a small kitchenette, offering a comfortable home-like stay. Undoubtedly, it is a perfect place to stay with family and friends.

Amenities include:

Free Wi‑Fi and free parking on-site
Outdoor swimming pool with sun loungers
Gym and outdoor yoga classes
Tennis court, padel court, archery, cycling and hiking services
Barbecue and poolside lounge, café and restaurant
Concierge service, buggy transport around the resort, and luggage assistance

Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 12:00 PM (noon)

AlUla Travel Guide: Top Restaurants and Cafes

1. AlNakheel Café

Nestled in AlUla Old Town, AlNakheel Café has outdoor seating with views of mud‑brick buildings and palms. They serve mixed grills, muttabaq (crispy stuffed bread) and fresh clay‑oven bread. It is a great place to enjoy meals in a relaxed setting.

Visiting Hours: 12 PM to 1 AM (Daily)

2. Circolo

Located in the Oasis Square of AlUla, Circolo is a popular Italian restaurant offering artisan pizzas, citrus risotto, fried goat cheese salad and black pasta with lobster. All cooked in a wood‑fired oven and served with olive oil and local ingredients.

Visiting Hours: 12:30 PM to Midnight (Daily)

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3. Somewhere

Set in the Oasis Fringe, Somewhere serves Mediterranean-style dishes made with fresh AlUla farm ingredients. You can order starters, salads, light mains and refreshing sorbets. This place is ideal for families and groups to enjoy a brunch or dinner under shaded palm trees.

Visiting Hours: 12 PM through evening (Daily)

4. Entrecôte Café de Paris

This branch in AlUla Old Town offers a simple, iconic menu, including green salad, steak frites, and a signature butter sauce flown from Geneva. It is indeed a great place to enjoy French cuisine under a traditional setting in Saudi Arabia.

Visiting Hours: 3 PM to 1 AM (Daily)

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5. Harrat at Banyan Tree

Located inside Banyan Tree AlUla resort, Harrat offers fresh Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes made from local ingredients. Here, you can’t resist ordering seafood, mezze platters, grilled meats and pasta. All served in a luxury desert setting.

Visiting Hours:

Breakfast: 7 AM to 11 AM
Lunch: 12 PM to 4 PM
Dinner: 6 PM to Midnight

Travel Tips to Follow Before Visiting AlUla

Book all major attraction tickets online in advance, especially during the winter festival season.
Head to Elephant Rock about 30 minutes before dusk to enjoy the best sunset.
Respect local customs, dress modestly, and don’t photograph locals without permission, especially in traditional villages.
If visiting Hegra, join a guided tour for the most insightful stories and easy transportation between sites.

Final Thoughts

This AlUla Travel Guide is your go-to resource for planning an unforgettable journey through the most enchanting landscape of Saudi Arabia. From ancient UNESCO marvels to sunlit palm groves and designer hotels, AlUla blends history, adventure and luxury unlike anywhere else. Use these tips to tailor your perfect trip. If you are planning a trip in the coming months, it is advised to book one of the best Saudi Arabia tour packages with Myholidays as it provides budget-friendly tour packages.