Al Ula is one of the most extraordinary destinations in Saudi Arabia. When you arrive, you will first notice how peaceful it is compared to busy cities. The desert surrounds you with golden rocks, silent valleys, and ancient tombs carved into stone. The vast landscapes and attractions are spread out, so having your own vehicle is essential.
When you rent a car in Saudi Arabia, you have full control over your journey. You can drive to heritage sites early in the morning, visit viewpoints at sunset, and explore hidden locations that taxis and group tours may not reach. This Al Ula travel guide will show you how to make the most of your trip, how to prepare for the journey, and why travelling by road is the best way to explore.
Al Ula is a living museum in the middle of the desert, surrounded by mountains and ancient civilizations. People have lived in this area for thousands of years, making it one of the Arabian Peninsula's most historically rich places. It was a major trading center for merchants travelling between Arabia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean because it was on the old Incense Route.
When you get to Al Ula, you'll see the huge rocky valleys, tall sandstone cliffs, and oases full of palm trees. There is something to discover in every part of Al Ula, whether you like ancient tombs, hiking in the desert, or modern art installations. Many attractions are well taken care of and protected. This area has something for everyone, from UNESCO World Heritage sites to desert adventures.
Many of the sites in Al Ula have been preserved in their original form. You can witness ancient architecture, inscriptions, and tombs that reveal the powerful kingdoms that once ruled this land. Each site reflects the intelligence and creativity of past civilisations that shaped the cultural foundation of Arabia. Today, archaeological discoveries continue to be made, making Al Ula a dynamic heritage destination. The Nabataeans, Dadanites, and Lihyanites left behind rock carvings, inscriptions, and monumental tombs that tell stories of trade, religion, and daily life.
Hegra is the most famous archaeological site in Al Ula. It features over 110 carved tombs built by the Nabateans more than 2,000 years ago. These tombs are cut into sandstone rocks with detailed carvings that show the importance of royalty, religion, and burial rituals. You must book a guided tour to visit Hegra, as self-driving is not allowed to protect the heritage site. The experience includes transportation, a guide, and stops at major tombs such as Qasr al-Farid. Visitors often describe Hegra as the most unforgettable part of their trip to Saudi Arabia.
Before the Nabataeans, the city of Dadan was one of the earliest major settlements in the region. Built from stone and overlooking the oasis, Dadan was a powerful city-state. The most notable feature is the lion tombs, where lion carvings guard the burial chambers of elite leaders. During your tour, you will learn about the Dadanite civilisation and how it controlled trade routes across northern Arabia. The archaeological work is a fascinating site for history lovers.
Jabal Ikmah is one of the region’s most valuable sites for inscriptions. It contains thousands of ancient writings on rock walls, including early Arabic script and messages from travellers who passed through the region. These inscriptions reveal information about trade, religion, and daily life over many centuries. Walking through Jabal Ikmah feels like reading history directly from stone. It is often called an open-air library because of the variety and quantity of inscriptions.
Old Town Al Ula is a well-preserved heritage village of nearly 900 mud-brick houses. The narrow pathways, courtyards, and town squares show how communities lived harmoniously with the desert environment. Today, the Old Town is a cultural centre filled with markets, artisan workshops, and local cafes. You can walk through restored areas and interact with local craftsmen who keep traditional skills alive. This is the ideal place to experience daily life from centuries ago while enjoying modern comforts.
Al Ula is not only rich in history but also blessed with extraordinary natural beauty. The region is famous for its dramatic sandstone mountains, deep valleys, and lush oases that create a stunning contrast with the surrounding desert. These natural formations were shaped over millions of years by wind, water, and time, resulting in landscapes that look otherworldly.
Elephant Rock, also known as Jabal AlFil, is one of the most photographed landmarks in Al Ula. Standing around 50 metres tall, its shape resembles an elephant with its trunk touching the ground. This natural rock sculpture was shaped by erosion, and it glows beautifully at sunset when the sky turns orange and pink. The site is free to visit; you can drive there or take a taxi. The atmosphere is lively in the evening, with seating areas, food trucks, and soft lighting that create a relaxing desert experience.
Gharameel is a remote desert area with tall, narrow rock formations that rise out of the sand like natural sculptures. It is one of the best places in Al Ula for stargazing, as it is far from city lights. When you visit at night, you will see a clear sky full of stars and constellations, creating an unforgettable experience. Many guided tours include astronomy sessions, local snacks, and storytelling under the night sky.
Harrat Viewpoint is on top of an ancient volcanic mountain that offers panoramic views of Al Ula. You can see the Old Town, the date farms, and the sandstone cliffs stretching across the horizon from the top. The drive to the viewpoint is steep and winding, adding a sense of adventure to the experience. Once at the top, there is comfortable seating, a small cafe, and photo spots perfect for capturing the beauty of Al Ula. This is one of the best places to watch sunrise or sunset during your Al Ula road trip.
The Al Ula Oasis is a green valley filled with palm trees, citrus groves, and flowing water channels. Walking the Heritage Oasis Trail allows you to escape the desert heat and explore a living agricultural landscape. Along the trail, traditional mud houses and local farmers sell handmade products. This oasis has been a source of life for thousands of years, supporting early settlers and modern communities.
Beyond the main attractions, Al Ula is full of hidden valleys and narrow canyons. These desert landscapes are perfect for hiking and photography, with rock walls that change colour throughout the day. Due to their remote nature, some areas require guided tours, but the effort is worth it.
Al Ula is an adventure destination where you can explore dramatic desert landscapes and experience thrilling outdoor activities. Each activity allows you to see Al Ula from a new perspective, from the sky, across the sand, or along rugged mountain trails.
A hot air balloon ride in Al Ula is one of the best ways to see the desert. Floating above the sandstone cliffs and ancient tombs will give you a clear view of Hegra and the surrounding valleys. Balloon flights usually start at sunrise when the air is calm, and the light creates beautiful colours across the desert. During the Al Ula Hot Air Balloon Festival, dozens of balloons rise into the sky.
Helicopter flights are a thrilling way to explore Al Ula from above. This experience gives you a bird’s-eye view of the valleys, rock formations, and UNESCO sites. The flight usually lasts around 30 minutes and covers major attractions such as Elephant Rock, Hegra, and the desert canyons.
For travellers who enjoy speed and excitement, a UTV buggy ride through the desert is one of the best things to do in Al Ula. You will drive across sandy valleys, navigate rocky paths and feel the thrill of off-road adventure. The desert terrain around Al Ula offers a perfect setting for this activity, with wide open spaces and stunning scenery. Guided tours provide safety instructions and all necessary equipment.
Al Ula’s sandstone cliffs are ideal for rock climbing, with easy and advanced routes. Adventure parks in the region also feature ferrata routes, where you climb using fixed cables and ladders attached to the rock face. Rock climbing is guided by professionals.
Hiking in Al Ula is a great way to explore hidden valleys and natural canyons. Trails range from short walks to full-day treks, suitable for all fitness levels. Popular routes include the Hidden Valleys Trek and trails around the Al Ula Oasis. Along the way, you may see rock art, ancient inscriptions, and lush palm groves.
Horseback riding is a traditional Arabian experience that allows you to travel through the desert peacefully and naturally. Guided rides take you through scenic valleys and offer beautiful sunset views. These tours often include storytelling and Bedouin hospitality.
Al Ula is a place of ancient history and a centre for modern art, culture, and creative expression. The region has become a leading destination for cultural tourism because of its innovative architecture, open-air installations, and international festivals.
Maraya is one of the most modern landmarks in Al Ula. This mirrored concert hall, with 9,740 mirrored panels, reflects the desert scenery, making it appear almost invisible from a distance. It is located in Ashar Valley and has hosted world-famous concerts, art exhibitions, and cultural events.
Al Jadidah is a cultural district near the Al Ula Oasis and Old Town. It features art installations, pedestrian-friendly walkways, boutique shops, and outdoor seating. The area hosts exhibitions, live performances, and local markets during peak seasons. Colourful murals and artistic displays can be seen throughout the district.
Al Ula is known for its dark skies. Star parties are organised in remote desert areas without light pollution. Expert guides use telescopes to show constellations, planets, and the Milky Way. These events often include Arabic coffee, storytelling, and traditional seating arrangements.
Azimuth Festival is one of Al Ula’s most popular cultural events, and it is held each year in September. It features international music artists, visual art installations, and live performances in the stunning desert landscape. Seasonal events include art residencies, outdoor film screenings, and local craft exhibitions highlighting the region's creativity.
Driving to Al Ula is one of the most practical options for travellers because the road network in Saudi Arabia is modern and built for long-distance journeys.
Al Ula is located around 3 hours by road from Tabuk and 7 hours from Jeddah. If you are flying from abroad, you can land at Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (Tabuk) or King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah) and pick up your rental car directly from the airport. The highways are fully paved and well-marked, with fuel stations, rest stops, and scenic stretches featuring desert plains, rocky mountain ranges, and quiet rural towns along the way.
The best time to visit Al Ula is between October and March, when the weather is cooler and perfect for outdoor activities. During this period, temperatures during the day are comfortable, and evenings are cool. This season also aligns with cultural and entertainment events such as the Azimuth Festival and hot air balloon experiences. Summer months, especially from May to September, can be extremely hot during the day.
The landscapes of Al Ula are unlike anywhere else in Saudi Arabia. Here, nature takes centre stage. Towering rock formations, lush oases, and silent canyons create a dramatic backdrop for your adventures. Exploring by road gives you the freedom to see these sites at your own pace and discover places that are often missed on guided tours.
Rent a car in Saudi Arabia with Final Rentals to conveniently explore Al Ula and the surrounding regions. With Final Rentals, you can begin your journey when you land, with convenient pick-up locations at airports in Tabuk and Jeddah. Booking is fast and secure, with no hidden charges, instant confirmation, and flexible cancellation. For extra convenience, you can also download the Final Rentals app on Google Play and the App Store.
