AlUla & Hegra Travel Guide: Saudi Arabia’s Ancient Desert Wonders

AlUla in north-western Saudi Arabia is one of the most extraordinary landscapes on earth – golden sandstone canyons, giant rock formations and the 2,000-year-old tombs of Hegra carved into the cliffs. This AlUla travel guide covers what to see and how to plan your visit.

Hegra (Mada’in Salih)

Hegra was the southern city of the Nabataean kingdom – the same people who built Petra in Jordan. More than 100 monumental tombs are carved into the sandstone outcrops, many with inscriptions above their doorways. The most famous, the Tomb of Lihyan son of Kuza, stands alone in a single rock. Visits are by guided tour only, which helps protect the site.

Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil)

A natural sandstone arch that looks exactly like an elephant. At sunset, lounges with soft seating and lantern light make it a magical place to watch the sky change colour.

Maraya

A concert hall covered entirely in mirrors, reflecting the canyon around it – described as the world’s largest mirrored building. Even from outside, it’s one of the most photographed sights in Saudi Arabia.

AlUla Old Town

A maze of mud-brick houses beneath a hilltop fort, with restored lanes, cafés and craft shops. Beautiful in the late afternoon.

Dadan and Jabal Ikmah

Dadan was the capital of the ancient Dadanite and Lihyanite kingdoms; Jabal Ikmah is an “open library” of ancient inscriptions carved into canyon walls.

Best time to visit

October to March, when days are warm and nights cool. Winter evenings in the desert can be chilly – carry a jacket.

Dress code and etiquette

Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for both men and women. A scarf is useful for sun and dust. Follow guides’ instructions at heritage sites – climbing on tombs is not allowed.

AlUla in our Saudi tour

Our Saudi Arabia tour package combines AlUla with Riyadh, including Emirates flights from Kolkata and all meals.

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