Explore AlUla Old Town: A town that is present in the past

AlUla in Saudi hides in its folds a heritage like no other. Elevated, almost as if on a pedestal, this site oversees the Musa bin Nusayr Castle, which is said to have been built as early as the 10th century B.C.

Would you like to see this treasure on your next visit to AlUla?

We are talking about AlUla Old Town, a historical gem, a town that is living its present in the past. Situated in the valley of AlUla, Old Town has about 900 houses. Some of these buildings are made of mud and brick, transporting you instantly to the pages of history. Old Town Al Ula also hosts about 400 shops, where you can go on a spree and collect every vintage item that you have ever dreamt of owning.

History lesson: A bit of a flashback

AlUla is a historically significant city in Saudi. Previously an important pit-stop for travellers, it is said that AlUla, at one point of time, had more than a dozen gates to welcome wanderers at the strike of dawn. The gates would be closed at dusk, and the town would rest for the night along with its weary wanderers.

Today, AlUla Old Town has become a site of great interest for history buffs who like to find answers to the rich past of AlUla. They believe that the AlUla Old City has answers to several questions that the pages of history pose. Maybe you can unearth some of the clues during your next visit to AlUla Old Town?

Things to do in AlUla Old Town

AlUla Old Town has a variety of adventures planned for you. Whether you like waltzing through the dusty lanes of memory breathing in the glory of the past, or you love spending time in nature getting to know farmers of a foreign land better, Old City AlUla will present you with every opportunity to live your dreams.

Here are four exciting things that you can only do in the Old City of AlUla:

1. Experience the town through the eyes of a storyteller

A teller of tales experiences life in a very different and magical way. This time when in Saudi, why not let a raconteur take you by the hand and walk you through the nooks and crannies of AlUla Old City?

Colloquially called a Rawi, these storytellers show you a side of the Old Town like no one else can. Most of the Rawis you will encounter here belong to the lineage of travellers who came to AlUla several centuries ago and got so mesmerised by the town that they never left. Every word the Rawis narrate about the Old Town seems like a love letter to the city. Trust us, you are in for the most beautiful experience of your life.

2. Walk through an oasis trail

After your walk through the Old Town, why not carve another route and check out the oasis trail of AlUla?

A leisurely experience, you will be strolling for three kilometres while your eyes breathe in the beauty of nature around you. Even if you are vacationing with children, this will be a great way to acquaint them with nature, and if luck would have it, turn them into your best friends.

3. Indulge in delicious delights

The Saudi cuisine was created to impress even the Gods. During your holiday in Old Town AlUla, you must treat your taste buds to every gastronomic delight that you come across.

Whether it is the authentic smoked and roasted meats, or traditionally cooked piquant and peppery delicacies, it would be a mistake to miss out on any of the culinary charmers that AlUla hides in its sleeves. Do be sure to end your meal with the finest Arabian brew that you can find in the world. Guzzle down every meal with a cup of it and then spoil yourself with a cinnamon roll or any dainty of your choice.

4. Shop till you drop

Shop local, shop authentic, when in AlUla Old Town. The outdoor markets of AlUla with their ancient architecture and friendly ambience, make you feel at home and happy the instant you step in.

From clothing and spices, to carpets and adornments, binge-shop like never before. Trust us, you want to splurge to your heart’s content when in AlUla Old Town because you won’t find the same quality of products anywhere else. Apart from souvenirs, you can also buy specialty foods that you can eat even after you have returned home.

5. Witness a unique modern marvel

Located in the Ashar Valley, the Maraya is the largest mirrored building in the world, and it reflects the spectacular beauty of the Arabian Desert. It is a 500-seat venue that’s wrapped in 10,000 square meters of mirrors.

Maraya means ‘reflection’ in Arabic, and the structure reflects the seamless marriage of modern architecture with AlUla’s timeless landscapes. Rising from the ground like a mirage, it makes its presence felt without intruding on the open space of the valley. The restaurant at the top, Maraya Social, champions local flavours and offers a carefully curated mix of Arabian, British and Mediterranean cuisines.

AlUla is not called the World’s Masterpiece for no reason. It has a myriad of offerings for every explorer. From foodies and history aficionados, to adventure seekers and art lovers, there is something for everyone. The glorious rocks sprinkled across the landscape of AlUla have stories to tell. Are you ready with listening ears?

AlUla Old Town beckons you and your loved ones. Plan your trip to Saudi today to experience this wonderful heritage.