What to do in Al Ula - Latest News

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...

AlUla continues to surprise adventurers and tourists alike with its stunning blend of ancient heritage and modern attractions. While its rich history and UNESCO World Heritage sites are reasons enough to visit, there’s a new thrilling experience that promises to elevate your trip—literally. The AlUla Stairway, an adrenaline-pumping adventure, is now open for night climbs, offering an unforgettable view of the desert landscape beneath a starlit sky.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Experience AlUla (@experiencealula) Experience the First-of-its-Kind AlUla Stairway The AlUla Stairway is unlike anything else in the region. Suspended 45 meters...

Saudi National Day is just around the corner, falling on 23rd September, and it’s the perfect time to join the celebrations across the country.  It’s a public holiday, so why not make the most of it by exploring some fun and exciting events happening in Riyadh, AlUla, Jeddah, and Dammam?  Whether you're with family, or friends, or flying solo, there's something special waiting for everyone! Here are a few top spots to check out during this festive time. Riyadh Glory Energy at Mishkat Interactive Exhibition From the 19th to the 21st September, the Mishkat Interactive Exhibition in Riyadh is hosting...

Nestled in the awe-inspiring landscapes of Saudi Arabia, AlUla is a destination known for its rich history, cultural significance, and stunning natural beauty. This remarkable region, already home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is set to expand its appeal with the addition of the newly announced AlUla Manara Observatory. Designed to offer an unparalleled stargazing experience, this observatory is poised to become a hub for space research, education, and astro-tourism. A Gateway to the Stars AlUla Manara Observatory is the result of a visionary collaboration between the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and the SETI Institute. Their joint mission...

Get ready to soar through the skies as the AlUla Skies Festival returns for 2024. This exciting event, running from September 26th to October 5th, offers a variety of thrilling activities, whether you're looking for adventure or a peaceful moment of awe. AlUla Hot Air Balloons One of the festival's main attractions is the stunning hot air balloon rides. Picture this: up to 60 colorful balloons rising into the sky at once, creating a scene straight out of a dream. You can choose between a tethered flight, which stays close to the ground but offers breathtaking views, or an untethered...