Al-Ula Travel Guide: Discover Saudi Arabia’s Hidden Gem

Prior to September 2019, Saudi Arabia was perhaps one of the most closed societies on earth, limiting its borders to those on business, religious pilgrimages, and foreign diplomats. The concept of a tourist visa was foreign, making it one of the hardest countries to visit. However, all of this changed with the Vision 2030 plan introduced in 2016 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to transform the country’s economy, society, and governance. The goal of Vision 2030 is to reduce Saudi Arabia’s dependency on oil and create a more diversified, sustainable, and globally connected economy. In 2019, Saudi Arabia officially launched its tourist e-visa system for citizens of 49 different countries.

Despite being open for tourism, Saudi Arabia’s narrative, at least in the West, is still very much dominated by its past. Gender separation, strict adherence to Islamic customs, extremism, and wealthy princes roaming the streets are what usually come to mind for most. And I’d argue that the average person probably doesn’t even realize the country is open for tourism. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has gained some popularity due to social media, most notably Al-Ula, an ancient city in the northwest.

History of Al-Ula

Al-Ula’s history that stretches back thousands of years. Once a thriving oasis and crossroads for ancient trade routes, it was home to several civilizations, including the Dadanites, Lihyanites, and Nabateans. The most famous historical site here is Hegra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring over 100 rock-cut tombs built by the Nabateans in the 1st century CE—similar to the ancient city of Petra in Jordan. Al-Ula also played a key role in the incense trade, connecting Arabia to the Mediterranean and Asia.

How to get to Al-Ula

Al-Ula does have an airport, but it’s not international, so you can only fly in from Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam. However, these flights are somewhat limited and tend to be on the pricier side. When I first planned this trip, I intended to fly, but after seeing the $786 round-trip ticket, I quickly switched to Plan B.

Most people fly into Madinah (MED) and then drive to Al-Ula, which is about a 4-hour drive. My round-trip ticket from Riyadh to Madinah was just $120, and a 3-day car rental cost me $176. Considering you’ll need to rent a car for Al-Ula anyway, renting a car isn’t extra money.

Renting a car from Madinah airport was a breeze—check-in took less than 10 minutes. As far as I know, as long as your driver’s license is in English or Arabic, you’re good to go.

The drive to Al-Ula is straightforward, just a long stretch through the desert with not much to see along the way. I recommend grabbing a meal before leaving the city, as food options are sparse on the route to Al-Ula.

And, by the way, gas is super cheap! I only paid $22 to fill up my tank.

What to see in Al-Ula?

1) Hegra

This is perhaps the reason why 99% of travelers visit Al-Ula. Hegra is one of Saudi Arabia’s most fascinating and lesser-known historical sites. Located just outside Al-Ula, it’s often referred to as the “Petra of Saudi Arabia” due to its striking rock-cut tombs and ancient ruins.

Hegra was a major stop on the Incense Route, an ancient trade route that connected the Arabian Peninsula with the Mediterranean world. The city flourished between the 1st century BCE and the 1st century CE, and its ruins are a testament to the skill and ingenuity of the Nabateans.

Unfortunately, you can’t visit Hegra on your own—you’ll need to book a tour, either private or group. The tours fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to book in advance. I bought my tickets through Experience Al Ula. which was super straightforward. Tours run four times a day—at 7:30 AM, 8:30 AM, 1:30 PM, and 2:30 PM (though these times can shift a bit depending on the season). Each tour lasts about 3 hours and costs 95 SAR (roughly $25 per person). If you’re looking for something a bit more magical, they also offer a night tour, much like Petra. It’s a great way to experience the site under the stars!

2) Elephant Rock

Elephant Rock is probably the second most famous site in all of Al-Ula, and it’s the perfect spot to catch the sunset. Located just about 10 minutes from the parking lot where you’ll meet your Hegra tour bus, it’s the ideal stop after your tour. Unlike Hegra, you don’t need a ticket or reservation to visit Elephant Rock—just show up and enjoy. There are also food trucks nearby, so you can grab a snack, kick back, and soak in the view while the sun sets behind the rock formations. It’s the perfect way to wind down after exploring the ancient tombs!

3) Old Town

Al-Ula Old Town is a well-preserved example of traditional Arabian architecture, with narrow alleyways, mud-brick houses, and ancient structures that date back over 900 years. It was once a thriving center for trade and commerce, particularly as a stopping point along the Incense Route, and was home to many important figures throughout its history.

4) Stargazing Tour

If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience, I highly recommend a stargazing tour in Al-Ula. It’s an incredible escape from the town and the desert sky at night is absolutely mesmerizing. The stars here shine brighter than you’ve ever seen, and it’s the perfect setting for a peaceful night under the stars.

That said, the tour is on the pricier side, costing 397 SAR (around $105) per person, but it’s definitely worth the investment. The experience of being out in the vast desert with a clear view of the Milky Way is something you won’t forget. Just like the Hegra tours, you can book your stargazing tour through Experience Al Ula.

Where to stay in Al-Ula?

I’ll be honest, most of the accommodation in Al-Ula is expensive, which makes sense given the remoteness of the town. I stayed at Our Habitas after a friend recommended it, and it did not disappoint. The room was extremely expensive ($700 a night), but worth every penny. Our Habitas is more like a mini campus than a hotel, which makes the experience even better.

Each room comes with an e-bike, which you absolutely need, as the gym and dining area is a bit of a walk from most rooms.

One of the best parts of the hotel is the view from the dining hall; you might’ve seen this photo on social media.

They have a nice gym on campus too!

Perhaps my favorite part of Our Habitas was all the random art installations scattered throughout the property. They added such a unique touch, and each one felt like a little surprise waiting to be discovered.

The Maraya Concert Hall is the world’s largest mirrored building, featuring over 9,740 square meters of reflective glass panels that blend the structure into the desert landscape. 

Habitas focuses on wellness through activities like yoga, meditation, and sound healing, often set against the tranquil desert backdrop. These sessions are designed to enhance mental well-being while connecting with the natural environment. The property also offers unique spa treatments, using locally inspired rituals and natural ingredients to offer a rejuvenating experience.

Overall Thoughts?

If you’re looking for a Petra-like adventure without the crowds, Al-Ula is the perfect place to kick back and relax. Staying at Our Habitas made this trip the trip of a lifetime. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, hiking through stunning desert canyons, or unwinding under the stars, this is the place where memories are made and time slows down. If you’re seeking tranquility, adventure, and a deep connection to the past, Al-Ula offers an unforgettable experience that blends luxury, culture, and nature—making this trip one I’ll never forget.