Explore Alula, Saudi Arabia'S Alice In Wonderland

Travel Tips

• Be aware of the local customs and religious rules and be respectful of them.
• Understand travel advisories and do your research on the local conditions before travelling.
• Please follow the entrance rules that are separate for men and women.
• As it is an Islamic country, refrain from public displays of affection and dress modestly.
• Seek permission before photographing locals.
• Plan your itinerary according to the prayer times.
• Be respectful of the Muslim religion at all times.
• Consumption of alcohol is illegal.
• Familiarize yourself with Saudi rituals and greetings, and be aware that men are not allowed to shake the hands of women.
• Carry your passport identification at all times and keep all travel documents safe.
• Information desks are located at important tourist places such as Winter Park, Jabal Ikmah, Hegra and more.
• You can access information counters at Prince Abdul Majeed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport as well.
• Booking for tours for various activities can be made online.

Safety Tips

• Stay alert and avoid confrontation at all costs.
• Be aware of travel advisories and the current situation in the country before travelling.
• Stay away from demonstrations and anti-riot processions.
• Keep belongings safe and do not travel with a lot of expensive jewellery.
• Be aware of Travel Health Notices for Saudi Arabia and exercise caution against drone attacks.
• Travel in groups with the advice of a travel agent, couples should preferably be married.
• Be respectful of local culture and remember that nightlife has to follow the strict Saudi laws of no drinking and music.
• Female travellers need to have a sponsor, a male traveller from the family.
• Carry along appropriate travel documents and if you are a pilgrim you will need to carry a specific visa.
• Law prohibits the public observance of any religion other than Islam.
• Skip the crowds by opting for the fantastic outdoor adventures that AlUla promises.

Health Tips

• The Ministry of Health Portal is the help and support services provided by the government.
• CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations before travel; Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B,  Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Rabies, Anthrax, Meningitis, Polio, Measles, Mumps and Rubella, Tdap, Chicken Pox, Shingles, Pneumonia and Influenza. 
• Bring with you your health and medical evacuation insurance in case of an emergency.
• Carry along for your safety insect and mosquito repellents. Include anti-malarial drugs in your medical kit.
• Download the mobile app Mawid which offers current healthcare recommendations and the latest on government guidelines.
• Maintain hygiene and follow all health protocols when travelling such as washing hands regularly, wearing facemasks, use of disinfecting wipes and more.

Dress Code & Etiquette

• The dress code is conservative and foreign men should wear long trousers and not shorts
• Female travellers are encouraged to cover their hair and wear the abaya, a garment.
• Islamic rules have to be followed and local customs have to be respected.
• Shaking hands is always with the right hand as the use of the left hand is considered unclean.
• Never show the sole of your feet or shoe as it is considered insulting.
• Males and females travel separately, and pork and alcohol is forbidden.
• Muslim fasting month of Ramadan has certain rules to be followed.
• PDA is also prohibited.
• Always show respect and reverence to the Islam religion.

What to Pack?

• Sunglasses, Sunscreen 
• Toiletries
• Medications
• Travel Documents
• Electronics
• Thawb for men and Abaya for women
• Headscarf
• Comfortable Shoes
• Jackets
• Full Body Clothing
• Backpack
• Rida, Izar, Pins (for pilgrims)

Nearby Places

Medina (292 km)

This is a city in Saudi Arabia that is a major Islamic pilgrimage destination. The Al-Masjid an-Nabawi or Prophet’s Mosque is a major attraction. Visit to see the striking Green dome that rises above the tombs of the Prophet Muhammed and other Islamic leaders.

Al Bahah (818 km)

The neighbouring city is a camping lover's destination. The city is in the Hejazi area in western Saudi Arabia. It is the capital of the Al Bahah Region and enjoys prime attractions. It is surrounded by forty forests such as Baidan, Al-Zaraeb among others.

Distance Between Places Of Importance In And Around AlUla

Dammam-1212 km, Abha-1045 km

Interesting Facts About AlUla

• As part of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia plans to invest $400 billion into developing tourism.
• Hegra in AlUla was built by the Nabateans who also built Petra.
• The first UNESCO site inside Saudi Arabia is Hegra and is one of the five sites in the country.
• Lionel Ritchie, Gang, Sister Sledge and others performed in the Winter Festival 2020.
• Lawrence of Arabia targeted the Hejaz Railway in a revolt and blew it up.
• AlUla is home to severalare natural wonders such as the Hutaymah volcanic crater.
• AlUla is filled with historic dwellings and monuments from 200,000 years ago.