Plan Your Trip

AlUla invites you to be experience her revitalising spirit, to be enchanted by the history and culture, and rejuvenated by the natural beauty. Find all the resources you need to plan a trip, including all the practical information for travellers, top tips and other essentials.

Accommodation

Explore the multitude of options available throughout AlUla, from luxury hotels set within stunning landcsapes, to unique glamping experiences in Airstream trailers or rustic tents.

Banyan Tree AlUla

Tranquil desert sanctuary inspired by its mysterious and exciting surroundings
Our Habitas AlUla

A sustainable desert resort combining luxury, well-being, and human connection
Ashar Tented Resort

Set among the desert sands and rugged rock formations of the Ashar Valley

Plan your AlUla experience with one of our travel partners

Getting to AlUla

Visas and arrival

Which international cities provide direct flights into AlUla?

Both Dubai and Doha have several flights per week, with flydubai and Qatar Airways. There are also flights seasonally from Amman with Royal Jordanian.

Which Saudi Arabian cities provide flights into AlUla?

Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam all have several options during the week with Saudia and flynas. Alternatively, Tabuk and Madinah airports – both serviced by international airlines – are both within a four-hour drive of AlUla.

Do I need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia?

Yes, though the type of visa will depend on your passport. International visitors from 63 eligible countries can apply for an eVisa, which is a simple process through a fast and easy-to-use online portal. The eVisa will be a one-year, multiple entry visa, allowing tourists to stay up to 90 days.

Can I rent a car from the airport?

Yes, and we highly recommend hiring a car during your stay in AlUla. You’ll find Lumi Car Rental, Alrehaili Car Rental, and Budget Car Rental desks at the airport. International drivers must carry a valid driving licence from their country of residence as well as an international driving permit.

Are there taxis or ride hailing available at the airport?

A limited number airport taxis are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Alternatively, the ride hailing service, Careem, is also available 24/7 in AlUla.

Is there a currency exchange in the airport or the city?

There is no currency exchange in the airport or in the city of AlUla. However, there are many ATMs around the city and most businesses accept international credit cards (Visa, MasterCard – AmEx is not widely accepted).

What if I have questions at the airport?

Friendly support staff at our Airport Visitor Centre will be happy to answer any questions you might have about AlUla, how to book experiences and so much more.

Are there any food and drink options in the airport?

Before security, there is a Dunkin' as well as a shop for snacks, water, and other refreshments or last-minute gifts. After security, there is another cafe with coffee, tea and light bites as well as an official AlUla Gift Shop.

Is there WiFi at the airport?

Yes, there is free public WiFi available.

Can I get a SIM at the airport?

Yes, there is an STC booth just before you exit the airport. STC is the most reliable network in and around AlUla.

A year-round destination

Winter

AlUla's winter offers mild daytime temperatures and brisk evenings. Camping and hiking are hugely popular right up until the sun sets, while outdoor events and exhibitions are plentiful, and enjoyable at both day and night.

Spring

The landscape blooms in spring, bringing with it an abundance of colour, nature and experiences for all. Almost perfect temperatures around the clock mean the natural beauty of the desert becomes a new place to discover.

Summer

Mornings and evenings offer a serene escape, with pleasant temperatures and low humidity. Mesmerising sunsets provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities such as stargazing and dining under the stars.

Autumn

Autumn brings comfortable temperatures to AlUla day and night, making it the perfect time to explore and enjoy a myriad of outdoor activities. You can also experience rich cultural events in Old Town and AlJadidah.

Local customs and practical information

Language

The official language of Saudi Arabia is Arabic, but English is widely spoken in AlUla and around the country. When greeting locals a friendly greeting is 'Marhaba' (hello) and 'Salaam aleikum' (peace be upon you).

Transportation

City taxis and the ride-hailing service Careem are available throughout AlUla. However, for ease, we recommend renting a car—with or without a driver—for your stay.

Currency

The local currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). While credit card and contactless payment are widely accepted, some shops only accept cash – so it’s good to have some with you. There are several ATMs in AlUla, but there is no currency exchange.

Culture

Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and traditions have been shaped by its position as a historic trade hub and the birthplace of Islam. In recent years, the Kingdom has undergone a significant cultural transformation, evolving century-old customs to fit the contemporary world we live in today.

Explore AlUla's signature offerings

AlUla is a place of eternal rejuvenation, where heritage, culture, art, and adventure meet – all set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty.