AlUla is home to Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, deep in the desert in the northwestern region of the country and an almost otherworldly landscape, read on to find out how you can make the most of your visit.
Did you know?
The 15-time Grammy Award-winning singer Alicia Keys, performed for the first time in Saudi Arabia, Maraya concert hall in February 2022 this being Arabia's northwestern desert that holds the Guinness World Record for largest mirrored building on earth. Inside the main auditorium there are 500 seats, along with five boxes with space for up to 60 more guests, and an infinity room installed by Yayoi Kusama and a restaurant, providing fine dining by Jason Atherton.
What to do when in AlUla:
Visit the open air art exhibition, installations of Desert X AlUla 2022
This years exhibition explored ideas of mirage and oasis. Visionary contemporary artworks by 15 Saudi and international artists among the incredible desert landscape. The artists have presented new works that address dreams, camouflage, fiction, dis/appearance, extraction, illusion and myth, while also examining the division between the natural and man-made worlds. The 15 sculptural works are dotted around the historic landscape that has, until now, remained largely shut off to the world.
Visitors can walk the area and visit each exhibition at their own pace, or, take advantage of guided tour options which can be found on www.experiencealula.com outdoor space.
Hot Air Balloon rides
Experience a hot air balloon ride with unique and breathtaking views, you can find more information at : https://tickets.experiencealula.com/en/experiences/Hot-Air-Balloon-unTethered-Flight
Cycling Trail
Experience AlUla on a scenic his Bike Tour,
Where to Dine in AlUla:
Maraya Social:
Chef Jason Atherton's newest restaurant, open since October 2021. The restaurant is located on the rooftop of the iconic mirrored building with a 360 view of rock-strewn valleys and canyons of the Ashar Valley.
SKLT:
Located on the edge of AlJadidah, with gorgeous views of AlUla Old Town. Indulge in charcoal-grilled burgers, steaks and seafood with savoury sides and vegetarian options.
Alfaone Retreat:
AlfaOne Retreat offers indoor and poolside dining.
To book visit: www.alfaonecreations.com
Incense Road Suppers:
Experience an unforgettable, immersive dining celebrating AlUla’s legacy at the heart of the
Incense Road. with Over six courses, stories from the Incense Road are brought to life through a 360-degree immersive audio-visual projection, sharing inspired stories of traders and historical icons, paired with amazing food, drinks, and an evolving incense scent-scape
