Jabal Ikmah

Carving a story

The power of the written word has been a constant presence in humankind's history. Each scrawled word, drawing or story can drive a civilisation forward, inspire storytellers, and inform future generations about how we lived. Jabal Ikmah is a treasure trove of such stories.

UNESCO recognised

The hundreds of detailed inscriptions etched into the cliff faces and rocks of this spiritual place earned Jabal Ikmah official UNESCO recognition for historical significance with its induction into their Memory of the World Register.

Sacred

A sacred place nestled in a remote canyon, Jabal Ikmah served as a crossroads for travellers as far back as the 1st millennium BCE. Drawn to the oasis city of AlUla, people arrived, stopped, and moved on, but not before etching heartfelt inscriptions or creating rock art that depicted such topics as their daily lives, musical instruments and animals.

Things to do in Jabal Ikmah

Discover the largest concentration of ancient inscriptions in the region at a site known as 'AlUla’s open-air library'

Adventure

Helicopter Tour

30 minutes Selected days Bookable year-round

Enjoy incredible ariel views of iconic landmarks

Coming back soon

Know Before You Go

Insights to help make Jabal Ikmah part of your AlUla experience

Location

Jabal Ikmah, Saudi Arabia

Get Direction

What is the best way to explore Jabal Ikmah?

The best way to visit Jabal Ikmah is through an organised tour either in a private vintage Land Rover or on a coach. Tours also include a visit to the ancient city of Dadan, and start from SAR 60, lasting approximately two hours. Self-drive is not permitted.

Should I book tickets in advance?

As there are a limited number of tours each day, it is highly recommended that you pre-book your tour. Purchasing tickets at the visitor centre is also possible, according to availability.

Is there parking nearby?

Visitors are required to park for free at Winter Park in AlUla where you will board a coach that takes you to the Dadan Visitor Centre, then to Jabal Ikmah and return to Winter Park. Only visitors on the Land Rover tours may park directly at the Dadan Visitor Centre, which is the first stop of the tour.

How long is the drive between Dadan and Jabal Ikmah?

The drive between the two destinations takes approximately 10 minutes.

Can I take a momento from Jabal Ikmah?

Please only take photographs. Do not remove or take anything from the area. Visitors who mistreat the monuments will be asked to leave.

What's inside the Jabal Ikmah Visitor Centre?

The Jabal Ikmah Visitor Centre offers guests a taste of traditional Arab hospitality; based on the seasons, this may include dates and other dried fruits, fresh juices, and Saudi coffee. There is also a small gift shop.

Are children allowed on the tours?

Children over 8 years old are welcome.

Can I smoke?

Smoking is prohibited anywhere near the heritage sites, except in designated smoking areas located along the tour route.

Is there somewhere to buy water?

Bottled water will be provided on the tour, but visitors are also encouraged to bring their own water bottles.

Can I get a refund if I can't make the tour?

Cancelled experiences up to 3 days before the scheduled tour will be refunded (excluding credit card fees). Experiences cancelled within 1-3 days before your tour may be rebooked if time slots are available, but you will not be eligible for a refund. Tours cancelled on the day of the tour cannot be refunded or rebooked.