What to do in Al Ula - Latest News

If you’ve ever planned a desert trip and wondered what to do after sunset, AlUla gives you a real answer. For 10 days, the night sky becomes the main event at AlUla Skies Festival 2026. Soar in a hot air balloon, take a helicopter ride above the desert, or try the giant swing under the starry skies. Here are the details for this edition. The festival takes place on November 6-15, and here’s what you can do during your visit. For views from above: AlUla Skyrise hot air balloon flights at sunrise over Hegra Tethered balloon rides at AlManshiyah Plaza...

Need a reason to leave the city and head to the desert this month? In the heart of Ashar Valley, Maraya is hosting Ramadan nights, serving iftar and suhoor inside its iconic mirrored venue. Maraya is the massive building that reflects the desert and rock formations you’ve probably seen all over Instagram. It’s officially the world’s largest mirrored structure and one of AlUla’s most recognisable landmarks. Usually home to concerts and events, it has opened its doors for long Ramadan evenings during this holy month. You can book in for iftar at SAR 350/person or suhoor at SAR 250/person. The...

Counting down to a long weekend? Saudi Founding Day 2026 is almost here, and if you’re planning how to spend it, you’ve got options. From historic parades to sea-view strolls and theme park rides, there are all things to do across KSA for every kind of mood. Saudi Founding Day falls on February 22 each year, and since King Salman declared it a public holiday in 2021, it’s become one of the biggest dates on the calendar. You can learn more about this holiday here. And if you're ready to celebrate, here’s your guide to Saudi Founding Day plans. Saudi...

You might know AlUla for its incredible landscapes and ancient sites, but soon, it’s going to be a must-see destination for art lovers too. A Contemporary Art Museum is on the way, and it'll be built under the palms of AlUla’s oasis. Even before the official opening, there are big plans to engage with audiences through exhibitions, artist residencies, and research projects. The museum plans to have more than just finished artworks. Alongside completed pieces, it will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process, with early concepts, private sketches, and archives. You’ll get to experience the full journey of...

If you're looking for an amazing weekend this January, here's an event you won't want to miss: AlUla Desert Polo 2026! Set against the stunning desert landscape and the incredible Hegra ruins, this unique polo tournament will take place on January 16-17. As a spectator, you'll get the chance to see world-class polo players competing in this unforgettable setting. The event is a favorite pastime for VIPs and royalty, so don’t be surprised if you spot a familiar face there! Beyond the thrill of polo, there will be plenty to enjoy. You can explore pop-up shops featuring local crafts, indulge...

Jayasom Wellness Resort AMAALA is bringing something truly unique to Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast. Opening in 2026, this family-friendly resort at Triple Bay will combine holistic treatments, evidence-based wellness practices, and luxurious accommodations for a truly revitalizing experience. With 153 rooms and 24 residences, the resort offers a space where guests can not only relax but also enhance their overall wellbeing. The facilities feature everything from fitness and movement studios to health and physiotherapy suites. There will be mindfulness and energy work spaces, a therapeutic spa, and nutrition-focused dining options. It also includes an organic farm, supporting sustainability and...

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...