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The Tomb of Liyhan: An astonishing ancient tomb that competes with the legendary tombs of Petra, this monumental structure towers over onlookers at an impressive height of 22 metres. Crafted by the skilled hands of ancient Nabataean artists, it was meticulously carved as a tribute to the son of a prominent dignitary. However, the artisans' work was abruptly halted, leaving the lower section raw and incomplete. 

Hegra: Saudi Arabia's inaugural UNESCO Heritage Site, Hegra, captivates visitors with its 110 preserved tombs and a picturesque desert backdrop. From the first millennium BCE to 1 CE, Hegra thrived as a hub of Nabataean trade. The majestic tombs, historic wells, stone water channels, and Roman architectural remnants testify to the ingenuity of past civilisations, and guided tours offer insights into the city's ancient inhabitants.

AlUla Old Town: AlUla's contemporary attractions extends to AlUla Old Town, a site immersed in living history with tightly packed streets and hundreds of mudbrick houses that were still inhabited until the 1980s. Nestled in the narrowest section of the valley, you’ll find the iconic Musa Bin Nusayr Citadel, an architectural gem from the 10th century CE that was  a vital stopover for pilgrims journeying from Damascus to Makkah.

The region's rugged landscape is home to many guided hiking expeditions, allowing you to explore the Hidden Valley and admire the gigantic rock forms carved by time. A trip to see the famous Elephant Rock is a must, especially at sunset when you can snap a photo of the sun sinking behind the elephant’s ‘trunk’.

The desert offers a wealth of activities, including rock climbing, dune buggies, hiking and mountain biking. You can also experience the magic of stargazing with local tours. Escape the city lights and embark on a serene night under the starry skies.

If you’re into modern contemporary architecture, be sure to check out the state-of-the-art ‘Maraya’ structure set in the desert canyon of Ashar Valley. The world’s largest mirrored building, it is designed to blend into the desert surrounding landscape and rises from the sand like a mirage. The venue hosts regular art exhibitions and world-class musical performances.

Embarking on a gastronomic journey in AlUla allows you to explore the city’s rich history and culture through a variety of local dishes that use a varied palette of authentic flavours.  However, the city also has a reputation for having a wealth of fusion and fine dining experiences that draw on a variety of international cuisine. You'll find French restaurants alongside traditional Arabic eateries where the storytelling and entertainment are as much a part of the meal as the food itself.

AlUla Old Town beckons with charming cafés and restaurants where you can grab a coffee and a sweet pastry between visits to the city's archaeological sites and museums.

In the warm evenings,  the vibrant AlJadidah Arts District comes alive with food trucks and enticing dining venues offering mouthwatering food and breathtaking views of the AlUla Oasis.

AlUla offers a delightful shopping experience with its vibrant markets and unique boutiques. Old Market Street is the place to go for beautiful jewellery that captures the spirit and heritage of Saudi culture. You’ll also find stores selling traditional Arabic clothing for men and women, much of it richly decorated with hand-stitched embroidery using real gold thread.

The bustling AlUla Old Town Market also offers a wealth of traditional crafts, spices, and local delicacies. If you want a more modern experience, the city's malls provide air-conditioned comfort and a contemporary shopping environment with plenty of food and drink options.