Al-Ula

An ancient desert valley containing the UNESCO-listed Madain Salih archaeological site with Nabatean rock-carved tombs. It represents pre-Islamic Arabian heritage and has become a major cultural tourism destination.

Things to do

• Madain Salih Archaeological Site — Explore the UNESCO-listed Nabatean rock-carved tombs and monuments dating from the 1st century BCE, featuring intricate facades carved directly into sandstone cliffs.
• Jabal Ikma Rock Art Trail — Hike through a canyon with ancient petroglyphs and rock inscriptions spanning thousands of years of Arabian history and art.
• Old Town of Al-Ula — Wander through the restored heritage district featuring traditional mud-brick architecture, narrow alleyways, and local craft shops.
• Dadan and Jabal Qaraoun — Visit the pre-Nabatean Dadan Kingdom ruins and climb to the mountain viewpoint overlooking the ancient settlement and surrounding valley.
• Desert Safari and Camel Trekking — Experience the surrounding desert landscape on camelback or in 4WD vehicles to reach remote archaeological sites and natural formations.
• Al-Ula Museum — View artifacts, manuscripts, and exhibits documenting the region's Nabatean, Dadan, and Islamic heritage within a modern architectural setting.

Food to try

• Dates and Date Products — Al-Ula is famous for its high-quality dates, particularly served fresh during harvest season or processed into date paste and date-filled pastries.
• Zarb — A traditional Bedouin slow-roasted meat dish cooked in an underground pit with vegetables, aromatic spices, and served communally on large platters.
• Jareesh — A savory Saudi breakfast porridge made from wheat, meat, and ghee, traditionally served in the morning and often found in local households and restaurants.
• Kabsa — The iconic Saudi rice dish prepared with fragrant basmati rice, tender meat, and a blend of warm spices including cardamom and bay leaves.
• Al-Ula Honey and Herbs — Local desert honey and traditional herbal infusions made from regional plants are sold in the old town markets and served as refreshments.

Local customs & good to know

• Respectful Dress Code — Wear modest, loose-fitting clothing that covers shoulders and knees; women may consider carrying a light scarf for visiting religious or heritage sites.
• Photography Etiquette — Always ask permission before photographing local residents, and be mindful that some areas may have restrictions; sunset and early morning offer the best light for archaeological sites.
• Greeting Customs — Greet locals with 'As-salaam alaikum' (peace be upon you); handshakes between same genders are customary, though some conservative individuals may prefer verbal greetings.
• Ramadan Sensitivity — During Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is considered disrespectful; many restaurants adjust hours and local life slows during fasting hours.