Untold adventures: 10 exciting things to do in AlUla for the summer and Eid Al Adha

Experience summer like never before with a visit to AlUla. Situated in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, the luxury boutique heritage destination offers breathtaking adventure and outdoor activities, rich cultural experiences, opulent hospitality and revitalising well-being retreats, all set against the backdrop of a serene desert landscape.

With a range of exciting activities on offer, visitors can make the most of their summer and Eid holidays at one of the Arabian Peninsula’s most appealing new vacation spots that’s just a short flight away from many GCC cities. Here are just some of the things to experience in AlUla this summer.

1.    Stargazing at Gharameel

Witness some of the darkest skies in the world in AlUla, which is exceptionally mesmerising in the summer when the Milky Way becomes more visible, attracting astro-tourists and astro-photographers. Let the stars guide your summer adventure, starting with a leisurely walk framed by Gharameel’s rock formations and ending with a grilled dinner and storytelling under the stars. Starting from SAR 397 per person.

2. Cinema AlJadidah

Watch your favorite movies for free (requires reservation in advance) at Cinema AlJadidah, the first outdoor movie theatre in AlUla, which hosts a selection of short Saudi movies, children’s animation movies, and internationally produced masterpieces that highlight local culture. The cinema also offers a range of interactive workshops (to book click here), and a variety of snacks and drinks to entertain the visitors. Check the schedule for movies here and workshops here, and reserve your free seat.

3. Hegra Wildlife and Nature Tour

This specially curated three-hour tour offers visitors private entry into an exclusive area of Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, with an adventure rover and a skilled guide. Unlike typical tours of Hegra and its intricately carved Nabataean tombs, this experience offers encounters with epic landscapes and delicate nature, intertwined with the legacy of AlUla’s civilisations that date back thousands of years. Starting from SAR 150 per person.

4.    Giant Swing

Experience the ride of a lifetime on AlUla's Giant Swing. Swoop between the canyon walls from a height of over 85 meters and soar into a 70-meter arc, the perfect chance to take in the stunning desert terrain and renew your energy for adventure amid the breathtaking natural landscape. From SAR 250 per person.

5.    Wellness experience at Our Habitas

Book a stay at Our Habitas and experience relaxing well-being packages that combine the best modern-day techniques and ancestral herbal products to help clear the path to self-discovery. Our Habitas’ summer package is priced at SAR 7,500 for a three-night stay in a Canyon villa, suitable for up to two guests. This package includes daily complimentary breakfast and dinner, SAR 500 credit for Thuraya Wellness spa treatments, and access to daily programming activities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a sustainable and artistic retreat immersed in nature.

6.    Hot Air Balloon Flights

AlUla's landscape is as captivating and grand as its rich history, and the best way to fully appreciate its splendour is by soaring above it in a hot air balloon at sunrise. Experience this breathtaking view with AlUla’s official balloon operator, Hero Balloon Flights. From SAR 995 per person.

7.    Oasis walk and night walk at Old Town and AlJadidah

Venture at your leisure through AlJadidah, a twinkling art district eager to be explored, and Immerse yourself in creativity with a visit to Athr Gallery, a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia's art scene. AlUla’s Athr Gallery showcases both emerging and established artists, offering a vibrant display of modern creativity and contemporary Arab art. The exhibition is open for free to visitors on Sundays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11:00 to 19:00 and on Fridays and Saturdays from 15:00 to 22:00.

Visit Old Town Village, a labyrinth of more than 900 mudbrick homes developed from at least the 12th century and listed as one of the World’s Best Tourism Villages in 2022 by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).

8.    Pool relaxation at AlUla’s hotels

Escape the summer heat with a refreshing dip in the uniquely stunning pools of AlUla. For ultimate relaxation, the luxurious infinity pools at Our Habitas, Banyan Tree AlUla and Dar Tantora The House Hotel, or enjoy the privacy of your own villa pool at Banyan Tree. Alternatively, experience the breathtaking natural surroundings with scenic pool views at Shaden Resort and Cloud7 Residences, offering an immersive connection with nature. Click here to learn more about summer hotel offers.

9.    Abseiling

Experience the thrill of abseiling in AlUla, where adventure meets history. Begin with a 25-minute hike to the summit, discovering ancient inscriptions along the way. From the top, feel the adrenaline rush as you rappel down the steep slope, surrounded by breathtaking vistas. Perfect for both seasoned climbers and beginners, this adventure will renew your energy and restore your vitality. Click here to learn more and book your experience.

10. Try a workshop at Madrasat Addeera

The cornerstone of AlUla's bustling AlJadidah Arts District, Madrasat Addera has become a beacon for the local community, where people are rediscovering the region’s traditional crafts, and reviving these once-forgotten techniques. Sign up for a workshop and hone your skills across all types of traditional arts, such as jewellery, embroidery and ceramics, including those historically found in AlUla. Learn more about the workshops of the week on Arts AlUla page on Instagram.

To learn more about bookings through our travel trade partners and for more information on AlUla, visit experiencealula.com.

-ends-