What to do in Al Ula - Latest News

Saudi Arabia just got a major cultural upgrade with the opening of Villa Hegra, the first Saudi-French cultural center in the KSA. Located in the heart of AlUla, this new landmark promises to be a vibrant hub for art and culture. The inaugural cultural season will feature workshops, artist residencies, exhibitions, and collaborations with major French institutions like the Philharmonie de Paris. Villa Hegra functions as a creative campus, with artist studios, a performing arts studio, an indoor cinema, and educational spaces that will host a variety of events throughout the year. View this post on Instagram A post shared...

Annabel's AlUla, the world-renowned private members’ club, is making its return. This season, it will be welcoming guests from October 17 to December 13, 2025. The pop-up restaurant is set to bring all the sophisticated flair, blending luxurious dining with the dramatic beauty of the region. If you’re wondering what’s on the menu, Annabel’s AlUla promises both classic Mayfair favorites and regional delicacies. Signature dishes like the famous Paccheri Pasta, wild sea bass fillet with Kalamata olives, and perfectly grilled lamb chops will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of London, with a delicious AlUla twist. View this...

Saudi Arabia has just opened its first-ever island golf course, and it’s truly something special. Shura Links is located on Shura Island in the Red Sea development. It's a huge milestone for the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goal of becoming a global hub for tourism and sports. The course offers a one-of-a-kind experience, winding through native mangroves, rolling dunes, and stretching right along the Red Sea shoreline. Designed with minimal environmental impact, it's a perfect example of regenerative tourism and blends seamlessly into the natural beauty of the island. Shura Island is almost ready to welcome first visitors. Phase one features...

AlUla Wellness Festival is back for its fourth edition, happening from October 24 to November 1, 2025. This year, the event is all about growth, movement, and holistic wellbeing. Whether you're looking to challenge yourself physically, find some mental clarity, or reconnect with nature, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a full schedule of events and activities planned in AlUla this October. AlUla Duathlon – October 24 AlUla Duathlon combines running and cycling, taking participants through AlUla’s spectacular desert terrain. The event kicks off at the Winter Park race village, where competitors and spectators come together in a hub full of...

Saudi Arabia’s hottest race — literally — is back this summer. The third edition of AlUla Desert Blaze is taking place on August 15 and 16, 2025, in one of the Kingdom’s most scenic and historic regions. The event offers participants a rare chance to run through UNESCO World Heritage sites while testing their endurance in summer desert heat. There are four race categories to choose from: 5 km 10 km 21.1 km (half-marathon) 42.2 km (full marathon) The 5 km and 10 km races are open to runners aged 16 and above, while the half and full marathons require...

The region of AlUla is introducing a new public transport project that aims to improve visitor access to some of Saudi Arabia’s most important heritage sites. The AlUla tramway, expected to launch operational services in the second half of 2027, will become the world’s longest battery-powered, catenary-free tramway. The tramway will cover 22.4 kilometres and include 17 stations, each featuring a distinct architectural design. The route follows the historic path of the former Hijaz railway. It will connect five of AlUla’s most important heritage sites: AlUla Old Town Dadan Jabal Ikmah Nabataean Horizon Hegra Historical City (a UNESCO World Heritage...

The desert beats are coming back. AZIMUTH 2025 has officially announced its dates, with the two-day festival set to take over AlUla from 25 to 26 September 2025. Held in the heart of Saudi Arabia’s dramatic desert landscape, AZIMUTH blends music, art and cultural experiences, creating one of the most memorable festival settings in the region. This year’s theme is “Until The Sun Comes Up” — a nod to the festival’s signature format of performances that stretch from sunset to sunrise. The event also coincides with Saudi National Day, giving it even more reason to celebrate.     View this...

AlUla is adding another architectural and hospitality milestone to its growing list of developments. The AlUla Development Company (UDC), a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), has unveiled the concept for NUMAJ, a 250-room luxury hotel developed in partnership with Marriott International’s Autograph Collection. The property is set to open in 2027. Inspired by both astronomy and cultural heritage, the name NUMAJ takes reference from Nu Ursae Majoris, a star system used by ancient travellers in the region. It also nods to the Arabic phrase Al Kafzah al Ula, or "the first leap," highlighting the spirit of discovery...

AlUla Skies Festival is returning from April 18 to 27, 2025, bringing a mix of adventure and breathtaking views. Whether you’re into thrilling experiences or peaceful moments under the stars, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the top activities and things to do, sorted from the most affordable to the priciest: 1. Hot Air Balloon Glow Show – From SAR 30 Watch giant balloons light up the night sky over Hegra and Elephant Rock, accompanied by fire shows and DJ music. A stunning visual treat at a great price! Available only on 18, 19, 25, & 26 April....

AlUla, a breathtaking ancient city in northwest Saudi Arabia, is a place where history meets stunning landscapes. Famous for its UNESCO-listed Hegra, carved into sandstone cliffs, AlUla offers a unique setting for Ramadan. This March, the city comes alive with special events, traditional iftars, and festive decorations, making it a perfect destination to experience the spirit of the holy month. Iftar Tofareya – A Shared Ramadan Feast One of the highlights of Ramadan in AlUla is Iftar Tofareya, a communal iftar that brings locals and visitors together at Incense Road in the AlJadidah Arts District. Guests can enjoy a spread...