Heading to AlUla for Eid? Don't miss these 10 brilliant experiences
From ancient wonders to desert adventures and scenic sunsets, here are some experiences worth adding to your AlUla Eid itinerary
If you’re heading to AlUla over this Eid Al-Fitr, you’re in for a brilliant domestic escape in Saudi Arabia.
AlUla is home to ancient heritage sites, striking sandstone landscapes, green oases, and a growing line-up of cultural experiences, making it easy to fill a long weekend with plenty to see and do.
Here are some of the best things to do in AlUla during Eid, from heritage tours and desert adventures to stargazing and family-friendly activities.
A magical journey among the stars
Under AlUla’s clear night skies, far from the bright city lights, families and friends can come together for a fascinating blend of astronomy and storytelling. Guided by expert astronomers, the experience explores the stars above AlUla, a destination that is home to four certified Dark Sky Parks. Through ‘A Magical Journey Among the Stars’, guests will also gain a deeper understanding of the long-standing connection between Arabic culture and the constellations.
Timings: Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, 6.45pm to 8.45pm & 9pm to 11pm
Cost: SAR275 per adult. Free for children below 12. Book here.
Arabian aroma
Set within Husaak, a scenic farm in AlUla, this fun, hands-on workshop invites guests to discover the art of perfume-making under the guidance of expert perfumers. Visitors can blend notes such as musk, amber and oud, enjoy a traditional Arabic lunch, and take home a personalised scent as a lasting reminder of AlUla and time spent with loved ones.
Location: Husaak Adventure Centre
Cost: From SAR295 per person
Arduna
The Holy Wadi, Ayman Zedani, Arduna, 2025
A multidisciplinary art experience that combines exhibitions, talks, and creative workshops, Arduna is a landmark contemporary art exhibition presented across six thematic chapters and multiple venues. It features works exploring gardens, forests, deserts, and the cosmos that reveal how artists engage with nature.
Location: Arduna Pavilion, AlUla 43523 (Arduna spans multiple venues; it is a 25-minute walk from the Arduna Pavilion to the other sites in the AlJadidah Arts District)
Timings: Closed on the first day of Eid Al-Fitr | Wed, Thurs & Sun 2pm to 10pm | Fri & Sat 10am to midnight
Cost: Starts at SAR50. Book here.
Dadan and Jabal Ikmah premium tour
For those interested in history and culture, this private 4×4 tour offers the chance to explore two of AlUla’s most important archaeological sites. Guests can visit the ancient city of Dadan, home to the Dadanite and Lihyanite civilisations, and the inscription-filled canyon of Jabal Ikmah. At the start of this journey into the past, guests can access the new permanent exhibition at the Dadan Visitor Centre titled ‘Illuminating Discoveries – Uncovering the layers of Dadan’s History’, showcasing more than 100 artefacts from the region’s past.
Timings: Daily, morning and afternoon tours available
Cost: Private premium 4×4 vehicle (Maximum 7 people), from SAR1,000 per vehicle. Book here.
Eid Joy festival
One of the highlights of Eid in AlUla is the free Eid Joy Festival, taking place at Dadan Culinary Arts Centre from Thursday March 19 to Saturday March 21. Visitors can enjoy traditional dance performances, roaming entertainers, a local artisan market, and a dedicated Kids Zone. There will also be storytelling corners, photo opportunities, and plenty of festive treats to sample along the way.
Location: Dadan Culinary Arts Centre
Timings: March 19 to 21, 4pm to 10pm
Elephant Rock by horseback
This guided horseback ride follows an eight-kilometre route across AlUla’s desert landscape at a relaxed pace, making it a peaceful way to experience the scenery together. The journey includes a stop at Elephant Rock for light snacks and time to take in one of the destination’s most recognisable natural landmarks.
Meeting location: Al-Mahya Purebred Arabian Horse Stables
Timings: Daily 8am to 10am & 4pm to 6pm
Cost: From SAR550 per person. Register here.
Hegra Wildlife & Nature tour
Discover Hegra in an open-top 4×4, where striking rock formations and desert wildlife turn every journey into a safari-style adventure. Along the way, uncover ancient inscriptions and rock art that bring AlUla’s human history to life.
Timings: 6.30am & 3.30pm
Cost: Starts at SAR150. Book here.
Old Town celebrations
The Old Town Amphitheatre will host evening celebrations on Friday March 20 and Saturday March 21. Expect live music, local folk performances, and family-friendly activities, along with traditional treats and activities for children. Located in the heart of AlUla Old Town, the festivities create a lively atmosphere in this historic setting.
Location: Old Town Amphitheatre, AlUla Old Town
Timings: March 20 & 21, 8pm to midnight
Old Town tour
Wander through a maze of centuries-old mudbrick homes and storied alleyways, where AlUla’s living history quietly unfolds. Led by a Rawi, this immersive walk offers a rare glimpse into the town’s past, from pilgrims and traders to generations of settlers.
Location: Old Town, AlUla
Timings: 9.30am, 10.30am, 4.30pm & 5.30pm
Cost: SAR70 per adult, SAR35 for children aged five to 12, free for those under four. Book here.
Sharaan dinner and stargazing
Set within the vast Sharaan Nature Reserve, this luxurious evening experience combines a sunset drive, a lantern-lit dinner and a guided stargazing session. It offers families and loved ones the chance to share a special meal outdoors before taking in AlUla’s night sky through modern telescopes.
Location: Sharaan Nature Reserve
Timings: Daily 5pm to 9.30pm
Cost: SAR995 per adult, SAR795 for children aged five to 11. SAR3,480 for two people in a private vehicle. Book here.
