A Weekend in AlUla: Saudi Arabia’s Hidden Gem
Tucked in the northwest corner of Saudi Arabia, AlUla is a place where time stands still, where nature and history meet in the most dramatic way. Known for its stunning rock formations, ancient tombs, and striking modern art installations, AlUla is one of the country’s most breathtaking destinations. A place once part of the incense trade route, AlUla has been home to civilizations dating back thousands of years.
I recently had the chance to experience this magical destination on a spontaneous weekend getaway from Riyadh with my cousins. This brilliant girls’ trip was actually my husband’s idea, and I am forever thankful for it. It turned out to be one of the most memorable adventures of my life.
A Warm Welcome and Scenic First Impressions
We flew to AlUla on Flynas, a budget-friendly airline with a flight time of just 1 hour and 50 minutes. As soon as we landed, we were greeted with warm Saudi hospitality—traditional Saudi Kahwa and dates were offered at the airport, instantly making us feel at home. Our resort shuttle was already waiting to take us through the stunning scenery to our hotel.
The first day was all about soaking in our surroundings. The landscape was surreal, with massive sandstone formations that looked like natural sculptures. Every rock seemed to resemble a different shape, as if carved by an artist’s hand. We laughed, took fashion photos, and made memories that will stay with me forever. AlUla felt like the perfect backdrop for my wanderlust-filled soul.
Exploring AlUla’s Icons
The next morning, we began our tour of AlUla with a local guide arranged by our resort. One of the first stops was Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building, which reflects the surrounding desert in a way that makes it almost disappear into the landscape. It’s a beautiful blend of architecture and nature and a must-see photo spot.
We then made our way to Elephant Rock, one of AlUla’s most iconic natural landmarks. This giant rock, shaped strikingly like an elephant, stands tall in the open desert and is believed to have been formed millions of years ago through wind and water erosion. It’s even more magical at sunset when the rock glows in warm hues.
We also explored other sites around AlUla, each revealing the area’s unique geology, history, and artistic charm. Although we had to skip Hegra due to our short itinerary, I already know I’ll be coming back just to see that ancient Nabatean marvel.
A Magical Evening in Old Town
Our day ended with dinner in Old Town AlUla, where the charm of the past meets the energy of the present. The entire area was beautifully lit with glowing lanterns and bustling with life. We wandered through narrow alleys, browsed local souvenir shops, and took in the inviting atmosphere. The hospitality of AlUla’s people was unmatched and I was genuinely impressed by how well-developed the infrastructure was, from the smooth carpeted roads to the ease of getting around.
Until Next Time
Though it was just a quick weekend escape, AlUla gave us a world of wonder. It was a reminder of how much Saudi Arabia has to offer and how every moment of travel can spark something unforgettable. I can’t wait to return and dive deeper into all that AlUla has to share.
Don’t forget to download my AlUla Weekend Getaway Digital Guide for the full itinerary, hotel recommendations, must-see sights, and all the best Instagram photo spots to make the most of your trip.
