# AlUla, Saudi Arabia AlUla is one of those places that genuinely stops you in your tracks. Tucked into a dramatic desert valley in northwest Saudi Arabia, it's home to some of the most extraordinary ancient ruins in the world, many of which most Western travelers have never heard of. The centerpiece is Hegra, Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Nabataean tombs carved directly into sandstone cliffs have sat largely untouched for over 2,000 years. Think Petra in Jordan, but without the crowds. Beyond the archaeology, the landscape itself is something else entirely, with wind-eroded rock formations, lush palm oases, and a dramatic canyon that cuts through the region. AlUla is still opening up to tourism, which means visiting now feels genuinely special. The old town, abandoned for decades, is slowly being restored, and the region hosts world-class events and art installations in the cooler winter months. If you're curious about history, geology, or just want somewhere that feels completely unlike anywhere else, AlUla deserves serious attention. **Must see:** Hegra (Mada'in Salih), Old Town AlUla, Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil), Dadan and Lihyan Archaeological Site, Jabal Ikmah, Hot Air Balloon Ride, Stargazing in the Desert, Sharaan Nature Reserve, AlUla Oasis and Farm Walks, Winter at Tantora Festival ## Hotels in AlUla - [Six Senses AlUla](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/alula/six-senses-alula.md) (5-star, AlUla, not yet open) — Six Senses AlUla is planned for a natural oasis in AlUla, where palm groves sit beneath red sandstone cliffs in a region known for Nabatean heritage and Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. The resort is scheduled to open in… ## Common questions **When is the best time of year to visit AlUla?** October through March is by far the best window. Temperatures are comfortable, ranging from around 15°C to 25°C during the day, and this is when most tours, events, and experiences are operating. Summer in AlUla is brutal, with daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C, and many attractions scale back operations significantly. If you're planning a trip, aim for the winter season and book accommodation early as it fills up quickly. **Do I need a visa to visit AlUla and is it easy to get?** Citizens of many countries including the US, UK, EU nations, Australia, and Canada can obtain a Saudi tourist e-visa online before travel, which is straightforward and typically processed within a few days. The visa allows for multiple entries and covers 90 days within a year. Saudi Arabia only seriously opened up to leisure tourism in 2019 so the process is relatively new but it runs smoothly in practice. Check the official Saudi tourism website for the current list of eligible nationalities as it continues to expand. **How do I get to AlUla and how do I get around once I'm there?** AlUla has its own regional airport, Prince Abdul Majeed bin Abdulaziz Airport, with direct flights from Riyadh, Jeddah, and increasingly from international hubs. The flight from Riyadh takes about two hours. Once you're in AlUla, renting a car is genuinely the most practical option as the main sites are spread across a wide area and public transport is essentially nonexistent. Many visitors book guided tours that include transport, which takes the hassle out of navigating between sites. **What should I wear and are there dress code rules I need to know about?** Saudi Arabia has relaxed its dress code requirements for tourists considerably in recent years. Women no longer need to wear an abaya in public, though dressing modestly with shoulders and knees covered is respectful and expected, particularly at heritage sites. Men should avoid sleeveless tops at archaeological sites. That said, AlUla is a tourist-oriented destination and the atmosphere is relatively relaxed compared to some other parts of Saudi Arabia. Comfortable, breathable clothing is essential given the desert environment, and sturdy shoes are a must for walking around the rock sites. **Is alcohol available in AlUla and what's the general social scene like?** No, alcohol is not available in AlUla or anywhere in Saudi Arabia. The country maintains a complete ban on alcohol and there are no exceptions for tourists. The social scene in AlUla revolves around food, cultural experiences, and events during the festival season. The restaurant and café scene has improved significantly as tourism has grown, with options ranging from traditional Saudi cuisine to international food, and the evening atmosphere around the old town and Elephant Rock areas is genuinely enjoyable even without alcohol. ## How to book - WhatsApp: https://wa.me/19453939299 - Email: advisor@firstrowtravel.com - Include the hotel page URL and your travel dates; booking through First Row Travel costs the same as booking direct — no booking fees.