Al Ula, home to Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, sits deep in the desert in the northwestern region of the country. It is an area rich in historical and geographical significance, an ancient city that once sat at the crossroads of the Silk Road and the Incense Route. The draw to this remote destination is its remarkable natural rock formations and canyons, extensive and varied pre-Arabic rock art, immaculately preserved tombs built more than 2,000 years ago by the Nabataeans, Al Ula’s own ancient walled city packed with mud-brick and stone houses, and the expanse of wild desert landscape ripe for adventure. In 2019, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman launched the Al Ula vision which features a sort and nature reserve called Sharaan, as well as the establishment of the Global Fund for the protection and revitalization of the Arabian Leopard.
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One of the most recognizable natural rock formations in Al Ula, the Elephant Rock resembles the animal of its namesake and stands at a height of 170 feet.
Once a bustling oasis town with nearly 900 homes and five town squares made up of mostly mudbrick and stone, much of the abandoned ancient Deira’s structures still stands and is now an archaeological site. Visitors can tour the maze-like town and enjoy views of AlUla Castle.
Hegra, also known as Madain Saleh, is a large conserved site of the civilization of the Nabataens, similar to its more famous sister Petra in Jordan. Hegra features well-preserved monumental tombs, inscriptions, and some cave drawings, and is a UNESCO-listed Heritage site. Impressive large red sandstone outcrops bear ornate decorated facades that mark clusters of tombs inside. Increased tourist infrastructure has allowed more access and opportunity to discover this ancient city.
A family favorite, the Princess Noura Farm invites guests to explore the fruit plantations, drink Arabic coffee with royalty, taste fresh dates, and interact with farm animals.
Take in the mountain air and enjoy the fruits at AlUla Fresh, a farm where visitors are welcome to pick fruit off the trees to take home or turn into juice. While here, learn how to farmers managed to create thriving plantations in the harsh desert landscape.
Dating back to the 6th century BC, the castle is the oldest building in Old Town Al Ula and was built to defend its town. After ascending more than 300 stairs to the top, the structure offers a view of the labyrinthine town around it. The castle was named after the Arab Muslim leader that resided there.
North of Al Ula is Harrat Uwayrid, one of several basaltic volcanic fields in western Arabia, where visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery of the rugged terrain and various valleys.
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With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
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