Things to do in Al-Ula

Al-Ula is a hidden gem located in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, and it has been recently opened up to tourism. It is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some of the things that you can do as a tourist in Al-Ula:

Explore the Madain Saleh:

Madain Saleh is an ancient city carved out of the rock, similar to the famous Petra in Jordan. It was the second capital of the Nabatean Kingdom and an important stop on the incense trade route. Visitors can explore the ruins of the city, including the tombs and temples, and learn about the history of the region.

Visit Elephant Rock:

Elephant Rock is a natural wonder located in the Al-Ula desert. It is a rock formation that resembles an elephant, and it has become an iconic landmark in the region. Visitors can take a tour of the area and enjoy the stunning views of the desert landscape.

Hike in the Hijaz Mountains:

The Hijaz Mountains offer a unique hiking experience for visitors to Al-Ula. The mountains are home to several scenic trails, including the Al-Ablaq trail and the Al-Heet cave trail. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains and learn about the local flora and fauna.

Experience Local Culture:

Al-Ula is home to several small villages that offer a glimpse into the local culture and traditions. Visitors can interact with the locals, learn about their way of life, and even participate in traditional activities, such as weaving and cooking.

Attend Winter at Tantora Festival:

The Winter at Tantora Festival is an annual event held in Al-Ula, which features cultural performances, music concerts, and art exhibits. The festival takes place over several weeks during the winter season and attracts visitors from around the world.

Enjoy Adventure Activities:

Al-Ula offers several adventure activities for visitors, including hot air balloon rides, ATV tours, and rock climbing. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the desert landscape and experience the thrill of adventure.

Here's a list of some of the popular travel tours in Al-Ula:

Al-Ula Old Town Tour: This tour takes you to the historic Old Town of Al-Ula, where you can explore ancient ruins, traditional buildings, and learn about the town's history.

Al-Ula Desert Safari Tour: This tour takes you on an adventure through the stunning desert landscape surrounding Al-Ula, including a camel ride, a visit to a traditional Bedouin camp, and a sunset dinner.

Madain Saleh Tour: This tour takes you to the Madain Saleh archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient tombs and ruins dating back to the Nabatean Kingdom.

Al-Ula Hot Air Balloon Tour: This tour takes you on a scenic hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscape of Al-Ula, offering breathtaking views of the desert and ancient ruins.

Al-Ula Date Palm Farm Tour: This tour takes you to a local date palm farm, where you can learn about the traditional farming methods used in the region and sample delicious dates.

Al-Ula Starry Night Tour: This tour takes you on a nighttime journey through the stunning desert landscape of Al-Ula, offering breathtaking views of the stars and the Milky Way.

Al-Ula Horseback Riding Tour: This tour takes you on a horseback riding adventure through the stunning desert landscape surrounding Al-Ula, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

Al-Ula Rock Art Tour: This tour takes you to the ancient rock art sites of Al-Ula, where you can explore some of the oldest and most well-preserved rock art in the world.

Al-Ula Nature Walk Tour: This tour takes you on a guided nature walk through the stunning desert landscape of Al-Ula, where you can learn about the unique flora and fauna of the region.

Al-Ula Sunset Tour: This tour takes you on a scenic journey through the stunning desert landscape of Al-Ula, culminating in a beautiful sunset over the ancient ruins and landscape.

Al-Ula Photography Tour: This tour takes you to the most photogenic spots in Al-Ula, including ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and traditional villages, offering a unique and unforgettable photography experience.

Al-Ula Cultural Tour: This tour takes you on a journey through the rich culture and traditions of Al-Ula, including visits to traditional markets, museums, and cultural centers.

Al-Ula Bird Watching Tour: This tour takes you on a bird-watching adventure through the stunning desert landscape of Al-Ula, where you can spot a variety of local and migratory bird species.

Al-Ula Quad Biking Tour: This tour takes you on a thrilling quad biking adventure through the stunning desert landscape of Al-Ula, offering an exciting and adrenaline-fueled experience.

Al-Ula Mountain Climbing Tour: This tour takes you on a challenging mountain climbing adventure in the stunning desert landscape of Al-Ula, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Al-Ula Wellness Retreat Tour: This tour takes you on a wellness retreat in the stunning desert landscape of Al-Ula, including yoga and meditation sessions, spa treatments, and healthy meals.

Al-Ula Food Tour: This tour takes you to some of the best restaurants and food markets in Al-Ula, where you can sample traditional Saudi dishes and learn about the local cuisine.

Al-Ula Stargazing Tour: This tour takes you on a stargazing adventure through the stunning desert landscape of Al-Ula, offering breathtaking views of the stars and the Milky Way.

Al-Ula Paragliding Tour: Paragliding in Al Ula is a unique experience that allows visitors to soar over the stunning desert landscapes, towering mountains, and ancient ruins of this historic region. There are several tour operators offering paragliding tours in Al Ula, providing visitors with the opportunity to take in panoramic views of the stunning desert scenery and ancient heritage sites.

During the tour, visitors will be accompanied by experienced pilots who will guide them through the skies and point out the most significant landmarks along the way. The paragliding experience typically lasts around 20 minutes and is suitable for all levels of experience, from beginners to experienced pilots.

Some of the most popular landmarks and attractions visitors can expect to see during their paragliding tour in Al Ula include the ancient Nabatean tombs of Madain Saleh, the towering mountains of Jabal Al Fil, the stunning landscapes of Wadi Al-Qura, and the expansive desert dunes of the Empty Quarter.