Make the most of your Saudi National Day weekend and travel to AlUla
Plan a perfect long weekend holiday…
September 23 marks Saudi Arabia’s National Day, celebrating the unification of the nations of Najd and Hijaz. With country-wide celebrations just around the corner, city folk like us love to get out of the city for a long weekend.
If you are looking for a domestic destination that offers both culture and thrill, a getaway to AlUla is just the thing for you. Plus, the highly anticipated kick-off to this season’s AlUla Moments calendar offers the perfect chance to explore this stunning oasis city and indulge in a myriad of unique experiences.
Fancy some ideas to help you plan your trip to AlUla? Here are ten brilliant things to experience in AlUla during your upcoming Saudi National Day weekend.
Party at Azimuth until the sun comes up
Love a rave in the desert? Azimuth, the must-attend electronic music festival, is set to attract fans from across the region and beyond for its fourth edition. With the 2024 theme of ‘Until the Sun Comes Up,’ this year’s line-up includes world-famous artists like German producer and electronic music star Ben Böhmer, English singer-songwriter James Blake, and French electronic dance duo The Blaze. You can also look forward to regional sensation Cosmicat alongside Ghostly Kisses, Seth Troxler, Jamie Jones, and Amine K. Don’t miss out on the exclusive presale offer, where you can enjoy up to 20 per cent off on all passes, for a limited time only.
2024 Azimuth, Sept 19 to 21. Book your passes here. @mdlbeast
Go up, up and away in AlUla’s iconic hot air balloon flights
Truly, there is no other way to take in AlUla in all its glory than with a hot air balloon ride. Find yourself on cloud nine as you enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of historic sites that have captivated travellers for millennia, including Saudi Arabia’s first Unesco World Heritage Site, Hegra, alongside AlUla’s spellbinding tapestry of canyons, rock formations, and verdant oases from up to 1,200 metres in the air.
Escape to a wellness retreat
Want to escape the hustle and bustle of the vibrant Saudi National Day celebrations by surrendering to the tranquil oasis of AlUla? Why not book a retreat at Banyan Tree AlUla or Habitas, both set amidst the sandstone mountains of Ashar Village, for a few days to recharge your batteries? Enjoy exclusive packages at the luxury resorts, which offer the perfect escape to a secluded and serene setting. There may be no better place to find rest, rejuvenation, and a sense of inner well-being.
@banyantree.alula / @habitasalula
Explore AlUla’s ancient heritage
AlUla is a treasure trove of history and heritage, encompassing a diverse array of ancient wonders. Some of the most significant heritage landmarks in AlUla that are worth checking out include Hegra, the Kingdom’s first Unesco World Heritage Site; Dadan, a stone city that is home to iconic tombs; and Jabal Ikmah, which has the largest concentration of ancient inscriptions in the region.
Look out for the variety of tours available on Experience AlUla’s website.
Let your adventurous side run free
For those seeking a blend of excitement and heritage, prepare for an adventure that’s bound to leave you speechless with the Giant Swing. Take a climb to the top of a mountain and swing over 85 metres above the ground into a 70-metre arc. Or experience the world of mountaineering with the Via Ferrata as you zigzag your way across the canyon, with aerial challenges and obstacles along the way. Cross a breathtaking bridge suspended between mountain peaks and enjoy a serene moment of relaxation on a giant hammock, perfectly positioned to enjoy the majestic scenery. Experienced climbers and non-climbers are welcome.
Discover Hegra under a starlit night sky
Experience an exclusive tour of Hegra under the night sky, exploring ancient tombs bathed in the light of the twinkling stars in small groups. Guided by the knowledgeable Rawis, you will traverse the silent, starlit landscape, learning about the rich history and cultures that once flourished here. To make the experience even more fun and engaging, opt to travel by bicycle, which will give you a new and unique perspective of the heritage site.
Witness nature’s wonders and wildlife
This Saudi National Day, embrace the untouched world at AlUla and discover a rugged destination filled with wild wonders. Explore Hegra through the lens of the natural world with a thrilling safari-style tour in an open-top 4×4 vehicle. From its epic rock formations to thriving wildlife, you’ll discover the rich natural beauty of Hegra’s nature reserve. You’ll also learn about its fascinating human story through spectacular inscriptions and rock art.
Enjoy an assortment of global cuisines
The ancient city of AlUla has welcomed a growing number of restaurants in recent years. From traditional Saudi feasts to fusion delights and casual dining experiences, the eateries take visitors on a flavourful culinary journey. Restaurants not to be missed during the Saudi National Day weekend include Tawalat Fayza, featuring authentic home-style oasis-to-table cooking; Villa Fayrouz, offering elegantly presented Lebanese cuisine; and Out of Line Café, a quaint local spot for pastries and coffee. Everyone’s beloved contemporary Greek restaurant OKTO is also making a return that weekend, offering an incredible view over Harrat.
Hike under the stars
Experience a starlit night of wonder with an evening hike in one of AlUla’s most unique locations. This 90-minute expedition through the Sharaan Nature Reserve takes travellers on a serene 4-kilometre trail, leading to an incredible panoramic view where they can witness the night sky in all its glory.
Go shopping in AlUla’s Old Town
Take a stroll through the charming, pedestrian-friendly streets of AlUla’s Old Town Market, each with its own unique vibe. Enjoy a shopping spree at local brands in the area, then explore the AlJadidah Arts District, a vibrant hub filled with restaurants and cafés. Options range from artisanal coffee shops and gourmet oasis-to-table dining to a lively cluster of food trucks.
@experiencealula / @alulamoments
Images: Supplied / What’s On Archives