What to do in Al Ula - Latest News

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...

AlUla, known for its rich cultural heritage, is hosting Al Khatt Festival 2025, a vibrant celebration of Arabic calligraphy. Until 22 February, visitors can explore stunning artworks, interactive exhibits, and live demonstrations that bring this ancient art form to life. The festival highlights both traditional and modern styles of Arabic calligraphy, displayed across various materials such as fabric, furniture, jewelry, and paper. Whether indoors or outdoors, each piece tells a unique story of artistic expression. At Tantora Square, don't miss the large-scale calligraphy installation by Her Highness Sheikha Khawla Bint Ahmed Al Suwaidi. Six additional pieces on display explore the...

AlUla Moments returns for its fourth edition, offering a captivating array of experiences that highlight the region’s unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Spanning until April 2025, this festival showcases AlUla’s stunning landscapes through a diverse lineup of flagship festivals, artistic showcases, sporting challenges, and live music events. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit. AlUla Trail Race (January 23–24, 2025) Trail runners, prepare for an epic adventure. This ultra-marathon offers a 100-kilometer route through iconic landmarks like Hegra, Elephant Rock, and the Maraya Concert Hall, with an elevation gain of over 1,770 meters. For less...

Get ready for an extraordinary experience this January as AlUla Desert Polo returns to the breathtaking landscapes of AlUla, Saudi Arabia. Held from January 16 to 18, 2025, this unique tournament is a key event of the Winter at Tantora Festival, offering visitors a chance to witness world-class polo in a setting like no other. Hosted by the Royal Commission for AlUla in collaboration with the Saudi Polo Federation, this sporting spectacle unfolds amidst AlUla’s dramatic sandstone formations and ancient archaeological treasures, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hegra. Picture yourself watching fast-paced matches against a backdrop of rugged...

The much-anticipated Winter at Tantora festival is set to return to AlUla from December 19, 2024, to January 11, 2025. Known for blending heritage, art, music, and cuisine in one of Saudi Arabia's most historic locations, this annual event promises a rich lineup of cultural and entertainment experiences. The festival takes its name from Tantora, a sundial located in AlUla's Old Town, traditionally used to mark the winter planting season. Today, the event has expanded far beyond its agricultural roots to become a major attraction for visitors from around the world. Activities to Explore at Winter at Tantora 2024 Cultural...

Get ready to glide into an unforgettable adventure because AlUla on Wheels is back, bringing its one-of-a-kind skating experience to the enchanting oasis of AlUla. This open-air roller rink promises more than just skating – it’s a full-on journey through time, soundtracked by electrifying DJ performances under a sky full of stars.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by AlUla Moments لحظات العلا (@alulamoments) Located in the vibrant art district of AlJadidah, this re-imagined roller rink is a nostalgic haven and cultural hotspot. Featuring creative designs and curated by Good Intentions, the visionary global movement...

Known for its breathtaking desert landscapes, AlUla has prepared another surprise for its visitors — this time with the debut of Masterpieces of the National Archaeological Museum of Naples (MANN). From November 7 to December 14, Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building, will house this remarkable showcase as part of the prestigious Ancient Kingdoms Festival. Visitors will also be transported back to the days of the Roman Empire through displays of gladiatorial armor and first-century helmets. This exhibition offers a rare chance to witness historical treasures from ancient Roman cities like Pompeii and Herculaneum, famously preserved under volcanic ash after...