8 Key Attractions to Explore the Ruins and Desert in AlUla

AlUla should be understood as a place where various eras converge around an oasis, rather than just a backdrop for a famous desert photograph. The ancient cities of Dadan and the Lihyan kingdom, the inscriptions left at the volcanic site of Ikmah, the Nabatean site of Hegra, and the old town along the pilgrimage route all showcase different time periods. Elephant Rock and the Ashar Valley are scenes where today’s cultural spaces are placed atop landscapes shaped not by human hands but by wind and water.

Access to protected sites is often limited to designated tours or shuttles rather than self-driving. It’s essential to book tours for Hegra and Dadan/Ikmah separately, and to arrange visits to the old town, oasis, and Elephant Rock according to their opening hours. Even if distances seem short, added time for checkpoints, meet-ups, and shuttles can pile up—so avoid overlapping too many bookings in one day.

The best way to experience AlUla is by progressing from the ancient kingdoms to the Nabatean city, then to the oasis and pilgrimage village, finishing with modern cultural spaces. Visit Dadan and Ikmah as one tour, and allocate a separate half-day for Hegra. Combine the old town and oasis into a walking schedule, and visit Elephant Rock or Maraya during sunset to see the striking color changes in the sandstone.

Do not take stones, sand, or plants from the ruins, and refrain from touching the rock surfaces—follow all guidance from heritage rangers and site signage. The temperature in the desert can vary greatly between day and night, and the tour starting point may differ from your accommodations. Bring water, a hat, and closed shoes, and check reservation conditions with the possibility of route changes due to weather or preservation work.