Things to do in AlUla
An open-air museum in the desert
AlUla is a valley between sandstone mountains, with ruins thousands of years old and rock formations you will not see anywhere else. A day here mixes history, landscape and clear night skies.
Open AlUla on the map
Places worth visiting
Hegra
Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage site, with Nabataean tombs carved into rock.
Elephant Rock
A rock formation shaped like an elephant, best at sunset.
AlUla Old Town
A historic mud-brick quarter of narrow lanes, shops and cafés.
Maraya
A mirror-clad building reflecting the desert around it.
Dadan
Archaeological site of the Dadanite and Lihyanite kingdoms.
Harrat Viewpoint
A high viewpoint over the valley and mountains.
Best time to visit
October to March: mild days and cool nights.
Questions people ask
How many days do I need in AlUla?
Two to three days cover the essentials: Hegra, the Old Town, Elephant Rock and a sunset outing.
Do I need to book ahead?
Some sites, such as Hegra, need tickets for timed tours, so book before you go.