There are many archaeological marvels in alula. Situated in the madinah province in the northwest of the kingdom, it is a popular tourist attraction. The first unesco world heritage site in the nation is located in alula, which gives it a unique status. This intriguing archaeological site also referred to as madain saleh or hegra, is situat in the nabatean kingdom. It is also frequently linked to being the home of the thamudi people to whom the prophet salih (as) was dispatched.The thamud people, according to the quran, worshipped idols and suffered lightning and an earthquake as a result. Twenty kilometers toward the north of alula is where you’ll spot madain saleh.
As a stopover on the historic hajj route, hegra has also played a significant role. It was a significant halt where the pilgrims received water and supplies. Also, it serves as the primary trade route. Ibn battuta, the renowned traveller from the 14th century, referred to the red stone-cut tombs of al-hijr (hegra) in his narratives. That was an empty place at the time. Because of the exceptionally dry weather and the lack of rehabilitation following the site’s original occupants’ departure, researchers attribute the flawless preservation of this ancient site. Choose all-inclusive umrah packages from uk with an al ula visit
Alula’s great history
The strategic location of al ula along the incense route has made it a place of great importance. In the sixth century bc, the walled city was establishe. Because the area has a rich history, there is a noticeable influence of various cultures. For example, archaeological evidence places the tumulus and al-hijr in the bronze age. Location of the dedan city in the bible. The kingdom of lihyan ruled over the region for the following 400 years.Alula continued to be one of northern arabia’s most important caravan hubs.Thereafter, the nabataeans dominated the area until 106 ad when petra, their capital, was taken by the romans.Madain saleh became the nabataean’s new capital as a result. The ottomans constructed the hejaz railway in the region between 1901 and 1908. The hejaz railway was establishe, connecting madinah and damascus, and it made madain salih (hegra) and al ula stations.
Al ulas cultural life and geography
The desert valley contains the oasis of alula. It boasts sufficient water and rich soil. It has, therefore, played a significant role in the historical incense trade route. Folks from ancient times settled in alula heritage village, also called ad-deerah.You can check the islamic travel reviews on different platforms before booking the umrah package for reliable and hassle-free journey.It was inhabited until the 20th century and today the deserte mud homes provide a wealth of information about the way of life and culture of the former occupants.The dwellings seem to be one large walled structure from the outside because of how close they are to one another.The houses are connected by winding, narrow alleyways.In the old city’s southern section, there is also a sundial clock.Also recently renovate is the town’s ancient souk.
Well-known attractions in alula
Hegra (al hijr), also known as madain saleh, is alula’s gem. Each visitor should see this unesco world heritage site. The al ula old town provides a historical journey. We can clearly see how ancient people lived in the desert thanks to its mud houses. The tallest tomb in hegra is the tomb of lihyan, son of kuza also referred to as qasr al-farid (lonely mountain). It has a height of 72 feet. In a literal sense, the 2019-built maraya, designed by italian engineers, means “mirror” or “reflection.” this fascinating and stunning cube-shaped structure was recorde in 2020 as the largest mirror-clad building in the world.
One of alula’s most notable geological formations is the arch or rainbow rock. It looks like a rainbow trapped between two clouds. For travellers, this unusual natural feature resembles a bridge. Elephant rock or jabal alfil is another famous natural sandstone formation. This natural wonder, formed by millions of years of erosion resembles the body and trunk of an elephant. Besides, it’s a well-liked location for camping. Jabal ithlib, the sparhawk arch and ekmah heritage mountain are a few more well-liked tourist destinations in alula.
Alula: a popular tourism location
Alula has become a global hub for cultural tourism. It possesses all the necessary elements including an intriguing and extensive history spanning centuries magnificent archeological sites and tombs breathtaking natural scenery undiscovered ancient artifacts and sites and—above all—a government-backed preservation and development plan.
Crown prince mohammed bin salman recently unveiled an ambitious journey through time masterplan with an estimated total cost of $15 billion. The goal of this plan is to make al ula a major international destination for art culture and the environment. To handle international flights the prince abdul majeed bin abdulaziz international airport was enlarged as part of this plan’s first phase.Its capacity has been tripled from the original 100000 passengers annually to 400000.
The sharaan resort is a cutting-edge new resort destination. The project is a state-of-the-art harmless to the ecosystem undertaking that is planne for finishing and opening in 2023. This venture’s best component is how it plans to incorporate the hotel with the general climate and scene without compromising the regular magnificence of the neighborhood lifestyle. Therefore, alula is rapidly becoming one of the world’s most pursued travel areas. It is expected to be visited by over two million tourists by 2035.
The 5 best resorts in al ula for traditional service
Al ula is in the madinah province, in the northwest of the kingdom. Going somewhere new and exciting has always been enjoyable in the city. Vacationers can look through the many resorts in al ula to find cosy lodgings appropriate for families, couples and group travellers. Nearly all of the amenities needed to make guests feel comfortable and at ease are provided by the resorts. Since most of the resorts are situated outside of the city close to beautiful valleys and mountains, tourists visiting the place prefer to stay at them.
- Shaary alula
With the most breathtaking and captivating view of the surroundings, the resort is situate close to the well-known sandstone mountains of al ula. Its location away from the city makes it the perfect place for visitors to find comfort. Superior king rooms, king suites, family suites standard twin rooms and king rooms are the five different types of rooms that are offere. Each room has a comfortable bed, lovely lighting and ample space. Furthermore, all the resort rooms are soundproof, giving visitors total seclusion.
- Shaden resort
The resort is close to some stunning rock formations. It is the ideal spot to unwind and take in your vacation because of the breathtaking views. To ensure a pleasant stay for guests, the resort offers numerous amenities. The establishment comprises 121 rooms that cater to various types of accommodations to meet the needs of its patrons, for a family, a group of guests and one or two guests. The interiors of the rooms are furnisher with a contemporary sofa, comfy bed and other amenities to encourage rest.
- Canyon rv park
Situated close to al ulas canyon valleys, this resort offers a distinctive lodging option in airstream recreational vehicles, adding to the excitement and fun of camping. Visitors may take in the breathtaking views of the valley, which are made even more breathtaking at night by the clear starry sky. The guest accommodations are provided by a total of 31 airstream recreational vehicles. Every unit has a bedroom, a small kitchen and a bathroom. To be transporte in a buggy to the arvs guests must first check in at the resort’s reception.
- Al ula habitations
In the desert valley, the resort is close to an old oasis. There is breathtaking cliffs, valleys and palm groves that surround it double the enjoyment of the stay. The resort’s breathtaking views and prime location allow guests to experience a sense of connectedness to the natural world. There are 96 rooms, all for guests at the resort, which are broken down into three categories: celestial rooms, alcove rooms and canyon rooms.To ensure a comfortable stay, the rooms are well furnished with amenities. Notable features include free parking, a yoga and fitness facility, and a front desk open around the clock. The resort is distinct because it is an environmentally friendly resort because it was constructe mostly out of organic materials.
- Shahd land resort
Travelers can explore and unwind in different locations from shahd land resort and al ula resort. Sixteen twin or double-sharing rooms make up the entire number. A sofa twin sharing beds, double beds and a number of other comforts are includes in the rooms to ensure a comfortable stay. Owing to its historical importance and the lovely tourist destinations that are close to al ula, the city has long been a favorite among travelers seeking enjoyable getaways. Near al ula lies hegra saudi arabia’s first world heritage site. Adventure-seeking tourists can go dune bashing hiking, rock climbing and riding the nation’s fastest zip line.
Final words
Take advantage of umrah packages from london and see al ula because there are numerous resorts in the city where visitors can spend quality time adding to the enjoyment and comfort. These resorts in al ula have a reputation for offering a lot of amenities and services to make guests stay comfortable. Near mountains and valleys, most of the resorts offer stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
