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Discover Alula!

by BTM

Tue, 03 September 2024

Saudi in Bahrain Travel Guide - Discover Alula!

With the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s national day celebrations approaching, travellers can look forward to unparalleled sights and unique experiences in AlUla in September. Here are our top recommended attractions and events across the causeway. 

With country-wide celebrations of Saudi National Day just around the corner, 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. From music and heritage to wellness and adventure, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the best of AlUla’s rich culture and history. 

With the jam-packed events season set to kick off just days before the Saudi National Day celebrations begin, here are nine exciting things to experience in AlUla during this year’s holidays: 

Be a part of the region’s best- loved  music festival, AZIMUTH 1. BE A PART OF THE REGION’S BEST- LOVED  MUSIC FESTIVAL, AZIMUTH 
The must-attend electronic music festival is set to bring in fans from across the region and beyond for its fourth edition from September 19 to 21. With the 2024 theme of ‘Until the Sun Comes Up’, this year’s event will usher in the Saudi National Day celebrations in the city in style. Tickets can be found on experiencealula.com.

Take to the skies 2. TAKE TO THE SKIES 
Reach new heights this National Day with a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra, or an unforgettable helicopter tour high above the ancient monuments and landmarks of the city! Soar over AlUla at over 1,200 meters in the air and enjoy an unforgettable experience, taking in the picturesque landscapes from a whole new perspective. 

Explore AlUla’s ancient heritage 3. EXPLORE ALULA’S ANCIENT HERITAGE 
Witness the breathtaking beauty of AlUla’s ancient heritage sites, including 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. A variety of tours between Hegra, Dadan and Jabal Ikmah shed light on the incredible history of AlUla, allowing visitors to marvel at the bespoke architecture and artistry of the remarkable civilisations that once called the city home. 

4. ENTERTAIN YOUR ADVENTUROUS SIDE 
Challenge your skills as a hiker and climber with the thrilling Via Ferrata, or explore the Giant Swing by climbing to the top of a mountain and swinging over 85 metres above the ground in a 70-metre arc. 

HEGRA NIGHT TOURS 5. HEGRA NIGHT TOURS 
Immerse yourself amidst ancient history and experience Hegra with an exclusive tour under the night sky, exploring ancient hand-crafted tombs bathed in the light of the twinkling stars. To make the experience even more fun and engaging, opt to travel by bicycle, getting a new and unique perspective of the heritage site. 

6. WITNESS  NATURE AND WILDLIFE
Enjoy a desert safari like no other and explore the incredible sights of Hegra, discovering the natural beauty of the surrounding wildlife and destination’s scenic rock formations. The expedition provides the perfect get-away as it explores the history of this natural haven during this thrilling day trip. 

7. DINE IN THE CITY 
AlUla touches all the senses and is renowned for its diverse restaurants, diverse cuisines and unique dining locations. 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; Out of Line Café, a quaint local spot for pastries and coffee; and the contemporary Greek restaurant OKTO (pictured), which returns that weekend and offers an incredible view over Harrat.

8. 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 4km trail, leading to an incredible panoramic view where they can witness the night sky in all its glory.

9. 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 cafes. Options range from artisanal coffee shops and gourmet oasis-to-table dining to a lively cluster of food trucks.

Ready for an extraordinary celebration like no other? Visit experiencealula.com for more inspiration on how to celebrate this year’s Saudi National Day.

Ready for an extraordinary celebration like no other? Visit experiencealula.com for more inspiration on how to celebrate this year’s Saudi National Day.

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