Top 10 Things to Do in AlUla in 2026: The Complete Visitor's Guide
AlUla has rapidly emerged as one of the most exciting travel destinations in the Middle East, and 2026 promises to be its biggest year yet. Nestled in a dramatic valley of sandstone mountains in northwestern Saudi Arabia, this ancient oasis city offers a remarkable blend of 7,000 years of human history, breathtaking natural landscapes, and world-class modern experiences. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a luxury traveler, AlUla has something extraordinary waiting for you.
1. Explore Hegra — Saudi Arabia's First UNESCO World Heritage Site
No visit to AlUla is complete without exploring Hegra (also known as Madain Saleh), the crown jewel of Saudi Arabia's archaeological heritage. This ancient Nabataean city, dating back to the 1st century CE, features over 100 remarkably preserved monumental tombs carved directly into towering sandstone cliffs. The most famous is Qasr Al-Farid, known as "The Lonely Castle" — a single massive tomb carved from an isolated rock formation that has become the iconic symbol of AlUla.
Guided tours run daily and typically last 2-3 hours. Tickets start from SAR 95 per person. We recommend booking the early morning slot to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the best photography light.
Pro tip: The Hegra After Dark experience, available during the winter season, offers a magical nighttime tour with atmospheric lighting that brings the ancient tombs to life.
2. Watch the Sunset at Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil)
Elephant Rock is one of AlUla's most photographed natural landmarks — a massive sandstone formation that naturally resembles an elephant with its trunk reaching toward the ground. While impressive at any time of day, the real magic happens at sunset when the rock glows in shades of amber and gold against the desert sky.
The area around Elephant Rock has been developed into a comfortable viewing area with seating, a café, and food trucks. Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset to secure a good spot. Many visitors combine this with Arabic coffee and dates for the quintessential AlUla experience.
3. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over the Valley
For a truly unforgettable perspective on AlUla's landscape, take to the skies in a hot air balloon. Flights depart at sunrise when the air is calm and the light is spectacular, offering panoramic views of the sandstone formations, the green oasis valley, and the ancient sites from above.
Balloon rides typically last about 60 minutes and cost around SAR 650-1,295 per person. The experience includes a light breakfast after landing. Flights are weather-dependent, so it is advisable to book early in your trip to allow for rescheduling if needed.
4. Visit the Ancient Kingdom of Dadan
Before the Nabataeans built Hegra, the Dadanite and Lihyanite civilizations thrived in AlUla from around the 9th to 2nd century BCE. The ruins of their capital, Dadan, sit at the base of dramatic red sandstone cliffs and include the famous Lion Tombs — burial chambers guarded by carved lion sculptures perched high on the cliff face.
Dadan is less crowded than Hegra but equally fascinating, offering insight into a civilization that controlled the lucrative frankincense trade route. Combine your visit with nearby Jabal Ikmah, often called the "open library" for its thousands of ancient inscriptions in Dadanitic, Lihyanite, Nabataean, and early Arabic scripts.
5. Stargaze at Gharameel
AlUla's remote desert location means virtually zero light pollution, making it one of the best stargazing destinations in the world. The Gharameel area, with its otherworldly rock formations, provides the perfect backdrop for observing the Milky Way, planets, and constellations.
During the AlUla Skies Festival (winter season), organized stargazing events include professional telescopes and expert astronomers who guide you through the night sky. Even outside the festival season, the desert sky is spectacular — simply drive away from the town lights and look up.
6. Walk Through AlUla Old Town
The historic heart of AlUla is its Old Town, a labyrinth of over 900 mudbrick and stone houses built over centuries. Recently restored, the Old Town offers a glimpse into traditional Arabian life with its narrow alleyways, the 12th-century AlUla Castle perched on a hilltop, and a vibrant souq where local artisans sell handcrafted goods, dates, and traditional perfumes.
The Old Town is free to explore on your own, though guided tours (from SAR 70) provide valuable historical context. Don't miss the incense shops and the traditional coffee houses.
7. Experience Maraya Concert Hall
Maraya (meaning "mirror" in Arabic) is the world's largest mirrored building, holding a Guinness World Record. This architectural marvel sits in the Ashar Valley, its 9,740 square meters of mirrors reflecting the surrounding desert landscape, making it appear to almost disappear into its environment.
Maraya hosts world-class concerts, exhibitions, and events throughout the year. Even if you cannot attend an event, the exterior is worth visiting for photographs. Check the Experience AlUla website for the current event schedule.
8. Hike the Harrat Viewpoint Trail
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Harrat Viewpoint trail offers one of the most rewarding hikes in Saudi Arabia. The trail winds through a volcanic landscape (harrat) to a viewpoint that reveals a stunning panorama of the AlUla valley, the oasis, and the surrounding sandstone mountains.
The hike is rated moderate difficulty and takes approximately 2 hours. Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and start early in the morning to avoid the heat. The views from the top are absolutely worth the effort.
9. Enjoy Traditional Saudi Cuisine
AlUla's culinary scene has blossomed in recent years, offering everything from traditional Saudi dishes to fine dining experiences. Must-try local specialties include:
- Kabsa — the national dish of spiced rice with slow-cooked meat
- Jareesh — a hearty wheat and yogurt porridge
- AlUla dates — some of the finest in Saudi Arabia, especially the Barni variety
- Arabic coffee (qahwa) — served with cardamom and accompanied by dates
Several restaurants in the Old Town area serve authentic local cuisine, while the luxury resorts offer elevated dining experiences featuring AlUla's farm-to-table produce.
10. Book a Desert Safari and Camping Experience
No AlUla trip is complete without venturing into the desert. 4x4 safari tours take you through dramatic sandstone canyons and formations that feel like another planet. Many tours include stops at hidden viewpoints, ancient rock art sites, and natural arches.
For the ultimate experience, combine your safari with an overnight desert camping or glamping experience. Sleep under the stars in a comfortable tent, enjoy a traditional BBQ dinner, and wake up to a desert sunrise. Several operators, including Osour.sa, offer packages ranging from basic camping to luxury glamping with all amenities.
Planning Your AlUla Trip
The best time to visit AlUla is from October to March when temperatures are pleasant (15-25°C during the day). The summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 40°C.
AlUla is accessible by:
- Air: Direct flights from Riyadh and Jeddah to AlUla Airport (ULH)
- Road: Approximately 3.5 hours from Madinah, 4 hours from Tabuk
For the best experience, we recommend spending at least 2-3 days in AlUla. Contact Osour.sa to book a customized package that covers all your must-see attractions.