Founded in the 6th century BC as a desert oasis, Al-Ula is an ancient city in north-west Saudi Arabia. It was once an important market town on the famed Incense Trade Route that linked India with Europe. On the city’s northern edge is an ancient walled city, while rock dwellings and rock-carved tombs dot the surrounding desert.
Things to do in Al ‘Ulá
One of Saudi Arabia’s most important heritage sites is Al Ula’s Old Town, which is watched over by the 10th-century Musa Bin Nusayr Castle. Clustered with hundreds of stone and mud-brick houses, it was once a hive of activity with pilgrims travelling from Damascus to Mecca. Join a guided tour to learn about the town’s fascinating past and explore its recreated souk.
A short drive north of Al Ula is Hegra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features more than 100 beautifully preserved, rock-cut tombs. After Petra, it is the largest city built by the Nabataean Kingdom and is best explored on a 4x4 tour. Marvel at the elaborately decorated tomb facades, which reflect the social status of the person buried.
Don’t miss Jabal Ikmah, an open-air library featuring thousands of ancient inscriptions dating back to the Lihyan civilisation. The mountain offers a fascinating insight into the trade activities in times gone by, with words in Aramaic, Dadanitc and Thamudic. Combine your visit with a stop at the lion tombs of Dadan, which were first mentioned in the 6th century BC.
Getting around Al ‘Ulá
Prince Abdul Majeed bin Abdulaziz Domestic Airport is a 25-minute drive from Al Ula and has flights to destinations across the Middle East. Long-distance buses connect from Medina to Al Ula, while taxis are available for getting around the city and accessing the nearby archaeological sites.