Al Ula travel guide and discussion

⚠️ Just got back from Saudi Arabia, and honestly, if you're planning to head there for the National Day holiday, you must read this! In September, daytime temperatures in Saudi Arabia still soar to 38–40°C🔥, and early October is still very hot; it's impossible to walk around outdoors at noon. If you want to visit the Old Town of AlUla, Hegra, or the Edge of the World, going out during the day will give you heatstroke in minutes. You can only go out in the early morning or evening, which severely compresses your sightseeing time. Plus, September 23 is Saudi National Day. Local tourist numbers surge, flight and hotel prices rise, and popular homestays and luxury desert camps are hard to book, which significantly increases your budget. ✅ Best time to visit: November – March of the following year Temperatures are 20–28°C, making it comfortable for desert hiking, dune bashing, and visiting historical sites. Riyadh Season and AlUla Winter events are all available, offering an incredible experience. 💡 A quick tip for those planning to go ▪️ Visa: You can apply for an e-tourist visa, which is valid for one year with multiple entries and a maximum stay of 90 days ▪️ Clothing: Avoid wearing overly revealing clothes in public, and bring long-sleeved sun-protective clothing ▪️ Power outlets: Remember to bring a UK-style adapter ▪️ Transportation: Use ride-hailing apps; avoid street taxis as you might get overcharged Many people think that October is autumn and cool, but autumn actually arrives very late in Saudi Arabia. Don't be misled by the season! If you can only travel in September–October, try to focus on a Red Sea beach vacation and minimize outdoor historical site itineraries.

🏜️ Disah Valley & the Natural Beauty of Saudi Arabia Disah Valley (Wadi Al Disah) is one of Saudi Arabia’s most breathtaking hidden landscapes, located in the Tabuk Province in the northwest of the country. Towering sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, natural springs, palm trees, and lush vegetation create an extraordinary contrast with the surrounding desert. What makes Disah so special is the feeling of discovering an oasis hidden between enormous red-rock mountains. Walking through the valley, you can see streams and pools surrounded by palms and wild vegetation, while the cliffs rise dramatically on both sides. Saudi Arabia’s natural beauty goes far beyond its deserts—from the spectacular canyons of Wadi Al Disah and the Red Sea coastline to the mountains of Asir, the rock formations of AlUla, and the turquoise waters around the Farasan Islands. Disah is a reminder that Saudi Arabia isn’t only about deserts and cities—it has mountains, valleys, oases, beaches, and some truly extraordinary landscapes.

Saudi Arabia is more than just deserts; it offers modern cities, ancient ruins, mountains, and the Red Sea. AlUla, in particular, is one of the country's must-see highlights. 💰 Estimated Budget Per Person (6–8 Days): Includes flights from Thailand, mid-range accommodation, food, and local transportation. 📍 Riyadh | 50,000–75,000 THB The capital city, featuring Kingdom Centre, Diriyah, and Edge of the World. Perfect for first-time visitors to Saudi Arabia. 📍 AlUla | 60,000–95,000 THB A can't-miss highlight with Hegra, Elephant Rock, and AlUla Old Town set amidst deserts and rock formations. 📍 Jeddah | 50,000–78,000 THB A Red Sea coastal city featuring Al-Balad and the Jeddah Corniche, offering a different old-town vibe compared to Riyadh. 📍 Diriyah | 50,000–75,000 THB An ancient city near Riyadh, home to At-Turaif and stunning Najdi architecture. 📍 Taif | 50,000–78,000 THB A mountain city with cooler weather than the desert, famous for its roses and mountain views. 📍 Abha | 52,000–82,000 THB A southern mountain city with a cool climate, lush greenery, and Asir National Park. 📍 Rijal Almaa | 55,000–85,000 THB An ancient mountain village renowned for its multi-story stone houses and unique local architecture. 📍 Tabuk | 55,000–85,000 THB The ultimate base for road trips to explore mountains, valleys, and the northwestern desert. 📍 Red Sea Coast | 60,000–95,000 THB Crystal clear waters and coral reefs, perfect for diving and relaxing by the sea. 📍 Al Ahsa Oasis | 52,000–80,000 THB A World Heritage oasis filled with date palm groves and natural beauty in the middle of the desert. ✨ If you're starting your Saudi adventure: 🏙️ First time → Riyadh 🏜️ Can't miss → AlUla + Hegra 🏘️ Old Town → Jeddah 🏛️ History → Diriyah 🏔️ Mountains → Abha / Taif 🌊 Sea → Red Sea Coast 🌴 Oasis → Al Ahsa If you have 6–8 days, we recommend the Riyadh → AlUla → Jeddah route for a complete experience of major cities, ancient sites, deserts, and the Red Sea. 🇸🇦✨

Finally stepping into AlUla, known as the pinnacle of Banyan Tree’s aesthetics worldwide, you dive deep into the desert canyon. All the city’s anxieties instantly fade away in this barren, tranquil place. This is a secluded paradise unique to the wilderness. 🏡 stay experience The entire hotel is scattered among red rock canyons, featuring exclusively Bedouin sand-colored standalone tent villas that blend perfectly with the desert landscape. Each villa offers maximum privacy, with an extra-large viewing terrace facing the mountains. Indoors, there’s a private star-lit bathtub. At night, lying here and looking up reveals a sky full of stars, creating an intimate atmosphere like no other. 📸 must-visit photo spots The infinity pool embedded in the rock wall is a must-see spot—every shot looks like a wild masterpiece. The world’s largest mirrored Maraya music hall reflects the canyon’s light and shadows, creating a dreamy and stunning effect. At dusk, the entire desert is bathed in golden sunset light. Late at night, the silence is complete, and the Milky Way fills the sky, making it breathtakingly romantic. 🧘 must-try experiences Start your morning with yoga in the canyon led by an instructor, waking up with the gentle breeze. In the afternoon, enjoy a desert hot stone spa to release all your fatigue. Have breakfast on the terrace at sunrise, attend a starlit outdoor dinner in the evening breeze, or take a leisurely bike ride through the valley to experience the red rock formations up close. 🍴 culinary delights Most ingredients are air-shipped in fresh, with flowers decorating the dishes. The rich and authentic Arabian cuisine offers unique flavors, while the Thai dishes are mild and delicate. Even in the desert, you can enjoy a variety of exquisite meals. 💡 photo and travel tips The hour before and after sunset is the best time for photos. Light-colored long dresses pair perfectly with the desert. The climate is comfortable from October to March, ideal for vacations. The desert is dry with strong UV rays, so be sure to protect your skin with sunscreen and moisturizer. A stay of about 3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the slow mountain and wilderness lifestyle. Escape the crowds and indulge in leisure in the wilderness. This desert vacation is especially healing.

An unforgettable stay at Banyan Tree AlUla. The villa is beautifully designed, blending perfectly with the natural mountains while offering complete privacy. Loved the unique rock pool, peaceful atmosphere, amazing views, and the magical desert nights under the stars. A must-visit experience in AlUla.

I’ve traveled through a fair share of deserts, but nothing prepared me for AlUla. This is a place where sandstone canyons open into hidden valleys, where tombs carved by the Nabataeans still stand sharp against the rock after two millennia, and where the silence feels less like emptiness and more like something ancient still watching. For years, AlUla was closed to the outside world, protected almost by accident. Now that it’s open, it doesn’t feel like a destination playing catch-up — it feels like a place that’s been quietly waiting for the right moment to be seen. 🏜️ A City Carved, Not Built Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the obvious starting point, and it earns every bit of its reputation. Walking among more than a hundred monumental tombs carved directly into sandstone outcrops, I kept forgetting these weren’t natural rock formations — every facade, every ornate doorway, was chiseled by hand by the Nabataeans, the same civilization behind Petra, centuries ago. Unlike Petra, Hegra is spread across open desert rather than a single canyon, so each tomb appears almost unexpectedly, rising out of empty sand like a mirage that turns out to be real. Elephant Rock, a massive natural sandstone formation shaped uncannily like its namesake, is where I watched my first AlUla sunset. As the light shifted from gold to deep orange, the rock seemed to change color entirely, and the surrounding dunes glowed like embers. It’s become something of a local gathering spot in the evenings, with seating areas and food trucks turning a natural wonder into a genuinely social experience. 🚶 Walking Through Deep Time The old town of AlUla, a maze of mudbrick buildings abandoned in the 1980s, offers a completely different kind of history — closer, more human in scale. Wandering its narrow alleys at dusk, past crumbling walls and old doorways, felt less like visiting a monument and more like walking through someone’s abandoned memory. Not far away, Jabal Ikmah — sometimes called an open-air library — holds thousands of ancient inscriptions carved into rock faces, written in scripts spanning multiple civilizations and languages. Standing there, reading (or trying to) messages left by people thousands of years ago, gave me a strange, humbling sense of how long this land has been telling stories. 🎨 A Desert Reimagined What surprised me most was how AlUla balances its ancient character with genuinely contemporary experiences. Maraya, often cited as the world’s largest mirrored building, sits almost invisible against the surrounding canyon walls, reflecting the desert back at itself so seamlessly that it seems to disappear. Inside, it hosts concerts, exhibitions, and cultural events that feel entirely at odds with the ancient silence just outside its doors — and somehow that contrast works. I also spent an afternoon hot air ballooning over the AlUla valley at sunrise, watching the canyon’s colors shift beneath me as the sun climbed. From above, the scale of the landscape becomes even harder to comprehend — canyons stretching toward the horizon in every direction, with barely a sign of modern life in sight. 🏨 Where to Stay AlUla offers everything from luxury desert resorts to boutique heritage stays. For a fully immersive experience, several resorts built directly into the surrounding rock formations blend seamlessly into the landscape, offering panoramic desert views from private terraces. If you prefer to stay closer to the old town and local restaurants, smaller boutique hotels near central AlUla put you within easy reach of Jabal Ikmah and the old city walls. ✈️ Getting There AlUla is served by its own airport, Prince Abdulmajeed bin Abdulaziz International Airport, with direct flights from Riyadh and Jeddah, along with a growing number of regional connections. From the airport, most major sites — Hegra, Elephant Rock, Maraya — are a short drive away, making a rental car or arranged transport the easiest way to get around. 🌅 A Final Thought AlUla doesn’t ask to be compared to Petra, even though the two share the same ancient hands. It stands entirely on its own — a landscape that spent centuries hidden away, only now stepping into the light. I left with sand still in my shoes and the distinct feeling that I’d witnessed somewhere still becoming what it’s meant to be. Ready to explore AlUla for yourself? Find flights, desert resorts, and guided tours through Trip.com to plan your journey into Saudi Arabia’s ancient valley.

Ultimate glamping goals! Caravan by Our Habitas offers the perfect mix of adventure and luxury. The vintage trailers are super cozy, the desert views are breathtaking, and the atmosphere is so peaceful. 10/10 recommend for your AlUla bucket list! ✨#AlUlaTravel #UniqueHotels #OurHabitas #SaudiTravel #LuxuryCamping

Come check in at Al Ula, the world's most beautiful Banyan Tree! 🏜️ Everything from check-in to check-out was absolutely perfect~ I saw some warnings before about the air conditioning being broken, but I didn’t encounter any issues at all! The service attitude was super nice too! 👍 🌙 At night, the hotel lights a bonfire, but I suggest just taking beautiful photos with the white sofa nearby as the background, because the desert wind at night is really hot~ 🍳 You can order breakfast, I tried several dishes and none were disappointing! Yummy yummy~ 🏊 Highly recommend their swimming pool! Every snap looks like an Instagram-worthy masterpiece! So beautiful~~ Besides that, the hotel also offers: ✔️ Leisure classes ✔️ Small bike rentals (too bad I can’t ride 555 😂) 📸 Photo tips: You must take photos on the white sofa on the terrace! Both during the day and at sunset, it’s absolutely stunning~ With the desert view, you can easily capture high-end, stunning shots!

AlUla - one of the fastest-growing luxury destinations in the world right now! 💛How to get there💛 · domestic flight via Riyadh or Jeddah. 💛Approximate weekly budget💛 · budget travel: ~$1200–1800, · comfortable luxury trip: ~$3500–7000, · ultra luxury desert camps: ~$12000+. 💛What to try💛 · Arabic coffee · lamb Mandy · dates · grilled kebabs

Many people flock to AlUla for its stunning desert landscapes, but what truly makes this place special is the living history you can still feel today. If you visit, don't just snap photos — take a moment to uncover the stories behind them ✨ 🏛️ Start with Hegra — a UNESCO World Heritage site and a remnant of the Nabataean Kingdom dating back over 2,000 years. Often referred to as "Petra's sister," Hegra offers a more serene and mysterious vibe, featuring monumental tombs carved directly into the rock. 🐘 Next up is Elephant Rock — a massive rock formation naturally sculpted by millions of years of wind and erosion. It's one of the best spots to witness how nature has shaped the dramatic landscapes of AlUla. 🪞 Don't miss Maraya — the iconic mirror-clad building that perfectly reflects the surrounding desert. It's a beautiful symbol of how AlUla blends ancient history with a modern edge. ✨ An afternoon stroll through AlUla Old Town is an absolute must. For centuries, this area served as a crucial stopover on ancient trade routes and pilgrims' journeys. Its labyrinth of narrow alleys and stone houses still holds the echoes of the past. 📖 Finally, make time for Jabal Ikmah — often dubbed the "open-air library" because it's packed with ancient inscriptions and carvings that help us understand the lives of early Arab societies. AlUla isn't just a destination; it's a place that makes you realize the desert holds thousands of years of stories 🌵✨

🐘✨ Elephant Rock & Ice Cream Rock: AlUla’s Dreamy Desert Icons Ready for rockstar adventures in AlUla? These iconic formations—Elephant Rock and Ice Cream Rock—deliver jaw-dropping scenery, magic-light evenings, and a dash of Arabian charm. Elephant Rock kicks off your itinerary, where the enormous sandstone “elephant” rises majestically from the desert. Arrive late afternoon to snag a free seat and soak in the view as the sun sets. The rock comes alive at night with artistic lighting, turning the site into a surreal wonderland. Grab food or drinks from the nearby cafes and restaurants, and don’t miss the chance to camp—imagine resting in your tent, a crackling campfire, sand beneath your feet, and the starry sky above! Insta-tip: The best photo angle? Capture the “trunk” shape with a wide lens at sunset or after dark when the mystical lights glow. Next, swing by Ice Cream Rock in AlMu’tadil, another quirky natural sculpture. The rock looks uncannily like a scoop of ice cream—perfect for playful snaps! Its offbeat silhouette contrasts beautifully with the surrounding Gobi-style desert; sunny days mean crisp colors and great outdoor shots. Snack tip: Pack water, but definitely sample some local ice cream if vendors are around. Tips & Precautions: · Both rocks can be visited year-round, but Elephant Rock truly shines at night (open until midnight or later on weekends). · Go early to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather. · The sand can get hot, and your shoes will fill up fast! · Cloudy or rainy days completely change the scenery—bring a waterproof jacket just in case! · Parking is free at Elephant Rock. Alternatively, you can easily hire a taxi from AlUla to get here.

🏜 The Most Beautiful Hotel I've Ever Stayed In 🌌 Habitas AlUla is a place that's hard to put into words. You wake up surrounded by cliffs, gaze at the desert, and realize everything here feels different. No hustle, just silence, light, and the vast space around you. During the day, there's a pool overlooking the canyons, meditation sessions, and a sense of complete tranquility. In the evening, enjoy outdoor cinema under the stars that seem closer than ever. This is not just a hotel. It's a state of being you'd want to linger in.

Desert, ocean, sci-fi, tradition. Saudi Arabia will redefine all your imaginations about the "Middle East." From the modern city Riyadh to the Red Sea bride Jeddah, self-driving into the desert depths of AlUla. Everything feels like a dream, this is not just a simple trip! It is a time-space journey connecting the ancient and the future, wilderness and prosperity. 🏜️Riyadh🏜️-🏜️Jeddah🏜️-🏜️AlUla🏜️ Itinerary: Day 1: Beijing - Riyadh Saudia SV889✈️ 23:45--04:55(+1day) Day 2-Day 4: Riyadh Diriyah's Turaif District|Diriyah The National Museum Al Masmak Fortress Souq al Zal Kingdom Center Sky Bridge Arabica Riyadh Roastery % Accommodation in Riyadh🏨: Four Points by Sheraton King Abdulaziz Road Day 5: Riyadh - Jeddah Saudia SV1027✈️ 10:00--11:50 Day 6-Day 7: Jeddah Al Rahma Mosque (aka the Floating Mosque) Red Sea snorkeling trip Jeddah Old Town (Al Balad) King Fahd's Fountain (erupts punctually at 6 PM) Accommodation in Jeddah🏨: Millennium Al Masar Day 8: Jeddah - AlUla Saudia SV1632✈️ 02:10--03:30 Car rental self-drive|Budget, staff available to pick up the car right after landing, even though official business hours start at 5:00. Day 9: AlUla HEGRA Elephant Rock AlUla Old Town Maraya Concert Hall Accommodation in AlUla🏨: Our Habitas & Ashar Tented Resort Day 10: AlUla - Riyadh - Beijing Saudi Arabia|Saudi Arabia Travel Guide|Saudi Travel|Saudi Tourism|Riyadh|Jeddah|AlUla|Saudi Arabia| Riyadh, Riyadh Province Jeddah, Makkah Province AlUla, Madinah Province

Embark on a unique exotic family trip with your kids—AlUla in Saudi Arabia is truly a hidden gem. With 7,000 years of historical heritage paired with otherworldly Martian-like landscapes, you’ll be captivated at first sight. Hot air balloons, mirrored architecture, ancient tombs, desert oases—experience a one-of-a-kind desert adventure with your children, exploring and playing along the way for endless fun! Chinese citizens can get a 48-hour e-visa for easy travel, no complicated visa procedures needed. Take your kids abroad effortlessly and experience a different Arabian charm. Here, there are no crowded crowds, only magnificent desert scenery and rich historical culture, making the family travel experience truly unforgettable. ✅ 6 Must-Visit Family Landmarks to Explore the Mysteries of the Desert 1️⃣ Hegra: Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and a treasure of the Nabatean civilization. Over 130 sandstone tombs scattered across the desert, exquisitely carved and breathtaking. Take your kids on a hot air balloon ride at dawn to overlook the tombs bathed in morning light—the golden desert combined with ancient architecture creates an epic scene. At sunset, visit the “Lonely Castle” for stunning light and shadow photography with your kids, perfect for family photos and sharing stories about the ancient Nabateans—learn while having fun. 2️⃣ Maraya Concert Hall: The world’s largest mirrored building, perfectly replicating the beauty of the red sandstone mountains. Dress your kids in white for fun “invisibility” photos, showcasing the perfect blend of architecture and nature. Note: Entry requires staying at a partner hotel or booking an internal dinner. At night, under the stars and lights, the concert hall is stunningly beautiful. 3️⃣ Elephant Rock: A natural masterpiece shaped by millions of years of wind erosion, this red sandstone elephant stands as tall as a three-story building with lifelike form. Take your kids for a close-up view and marvel at nature’s wonders. Best visited after 4 PM to avoid the heat; capture sunset photos sitting on the sunken sofa, and after dark, shoot the Milky Way silhouette—perfect for family photo vibes. 4️⃣ Dadan Ancient City & Ikmah Valley: Explore ancient desert civilizations with your kids. The 3-meter-high rock lion in Dadan Ancient City is imposing, and over 500 ancient inscriptions in Ikmah Valley bear witness to millennia of history. Kids can try rubbing the inscriptions and create their own keepsake—very meaningful. We recommend a day tour with professional guides and a desert picnic for a worry-free family outing. 5️⃣ AlUla Old Town: A 7th-century mudbrick village hidden in a desert oasis. Climb the 45-meter-high fortress with your kids to overlook the entire oasis and feel the desert’s vitality and beauty. Visit the Arabian-style market to customize copper souvenirs for your kids and experience local handicrafts. Don’t miss the Somewhere restaurant for fresh Mediterranean cuisine with mild flavors that kids will love. 6️⃣ Heritage Oasis Trail: A 2-kilometer easy hiking route shaded by palm trees, with a millennia-old irrigation system still in operation. Walk and explore with your kids, savoring the unique charm of the desert oasis. Along the way, enjoy cactus fruit ice drinks and taste special desert delicacies—super fun. 🗓️ 3 Days 2 Nights Family Itinerary to Explore AlUla Day 1: Hot air balloon sunrise → Hegra tomb group tour → AlUla Old Town photo shoot → Habitas starlit dinner Day 2: Dadan Ancient City + Ikmah Valley inscription rubbing → Maraya Concert Hall photo shoot → Elephant Rock sunset & Milky Way photography Day 3: Heritage Oasis Trail hike → Banyan Tree coconut oil spa → Specialty market souvenir shopping → Return trip 🏨 Family Accommodation Recommendations for an Immersive Desert Experience 🔹 Premium Choice: Habitas Eco-Tent Hotel, hidden in a canyon with stunning desert views right outside your window. The starry sky tents are super romantic, offering an immersive desert stay for families. Banyan Tree features a canyon pool, excellent facilities, and attentive service—very comfortable for families. 🔹 Cost-Effective Choice: Shaden Resort, near Hegra, with unique starry sky tents and authentic Bedouin barbecue. Experience the joy of desert camping with your kids. 💡 Important Family Travel Tips 1️⃣ A 4WD vehicle is essential for desert travel; we recommend a full car hire for safer and more convenient family trips. 2️⃣ The best travel time is from November to March, with comfortable temperatures around 25°C, ideal for kids. 3️⃣ The desert has strong UV rays—ensure full sun protection for your kids with long-sleeve sun-protective clothing, hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses. 4️⃣ Respect local cultural customs: dress modestly when entering mosques, covering shoulders and neck; ask permission before photographing locals; drones are prohibited in scenic areas. 5️⃣ Dress your kids in comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of drinking water and snacks to keep energy up during desert activities. Bring your kids to Saudi Arabia’s AlUla to explore millennia-old civilization amid Martian-like desert landscapes. Start a unique exotic family adventure where your children can broaden their horizons, gain knowledge, and have fun on the journey!

Who would have thought! We've discovered the pinnacle of wild luxury in AlUla, Saudi Arabia 💫 Habbis Resort is nestled right in the crimson canyon, with sandstone wonders just outside your window. From stargazing movies, canyon baths, to electric bike rides chasing sunsets, every moment feels like living in a fairy tale. Only here can you truly understand what desert romance means! Sleep right in the scenery! Every room faces the canyon directly; open the curtains to breathtaking mountain views. Wake up to the canyon sunrise, so stunning it leaves you speechless. The outdoor bathing area is truly divine—soaking in hot water while breathing in the open air, with the evening breeze gently healing your soul. Even better, each room comes with an electric mountain bike. Ride through the valleys with the wind in your ears and the scenery before your eyes, pure joy at its fullest. The hotel’s photo spots are endless—you won’t have enough time to shoot them all in a day! The cliffside pool looks like a piece of the falling sky, its blue water reflecting the red rock walls. Snap Instagram-worthy shots by day, and by night watch the stars sprinkle over the water, creating an unbeatable atmosphere. The sandstone swings and trampolines are super playful, every casual photo is a heartwarming scene. The open-air platform by the canyon is perfect for zoning out, feeling the breeze and watching the clouds roll by, making all worries disappear. The food is also incredibly flavorful, with specialty dishes to satisfy your appetite! Breakfast by the pool is a ceremony in itself, Western cuisine paired with canyon views to start your day full of energy. Dinner’s lamb leg is tender and falls off the bone—one bite and you’re hooked. Plus, the amazing steak sandwich is a guaranteed hit. Enjoy your meal on the terrace with the evening breeze, listening to the insects and gazing at the stars—this is the true way to enjoy a vacation!

Answering embarrassing questions about Saudi Arabia 👇🏻 1. Do you have to wear black dresses and cover your face, head, and so on? There aren't such strict rules here right now. Tourists can wear their usual European clothing. The only thing to keep in mind is that you still need to observe local etiquette: covering your knees and shoulders. So, we bought summer pants and wear T-shirts, and often even shirts, because it's chilly here in winter. 2. How should couples behave in public places? It's worth noting that public displays of affection are not customary here. Therefore, in parks, on the street, and in restaurants, you shouldn't show excessive interest in your partner. However, holding hands is allowed in Saudi Arabia, and Saudis do it themselves, so no one will judge you or give you the sideways glance. 3. What about sparkling wine/beer? Here, such things are strictly prohibited, especially bringing alcohol into the country. You could be immediately deported or worse. There are specialized shops, but only diplomats are allowed to enter them. Regular travelers are not allowed. Alcohol is also currently prohibited in all hotels. 4. How are women treated without a partner? Recently, women's rights have been lifted in Saudi Arabia, and they have become full, free members of society. Women are allowed to work here, they can go out alone, and they are also free to choose their clothing. Therefore, you can often see women strolling on the street. You can often find groups of women in establishments. And even taxis may have a female driver. Saudi Arabia is now living in a modern way. And, frankly, we really like it here! 5. How are non-Muslim tourists treated? There is a fear that you will be viewed as an enemy. But in reality, it's quite the opposite. Arabs are generally hospitable people, and you'll often encounter someone approaching you to greet you, ask where you're from, offer you a compliment, or even offer you a cup of coffee. Saudis pride themselves on being open to the world and are willing to do everything possible to make you feel welcome. 6. Can unmarried couples enter the country? This was once quite strict, but the rules have now been changed for tourists. Foreign couples can easily book shared accommodation. And no documentation proving the relationship is required either upon booking or upon entry. 7. How safe is it to go out after sunset? Saudi Arabia has one of the lowest street crime rates in the world. And it's not scary to go out for a walk at night here, considering that most shopping centers and businesses stay open until two or three in the morning, and locals are accustomed to the evening lifestyle, escaping the daytime heat. The streets are constantly patrolled, and penalties for minor offenses are very strict. If you have any questions, leave them in the comments—we'll answer them!

Have you ever imagined such a scene❓Waking up amidst a Mars-like magnificent landscape✨ This resort hotel, Habitas AlUla, hidden deep in the Saudi desert, gave me such a surreal experience! I was so lucky to book a cave suite💯 This place looks less like a hotel on Earth and more like a futuristic residence🔥 📍Location: AlUla region, northwest Saudi Arabia, about a 40-minute drive from AlUla Airport 🏷️Price: Off-season starting from about ¥8000+/night What impressed me most about the hotel is the symbiosis between architecture and nature🤩 The "cave suite" I stayed in is perfectly hidden among the vast valleys and rock peaks⛰️ The walls are textured with billion-year-old rock formations, every shot looks like an Instagram masterpiece📸 The private pool on the terrace seems to hang on the edge of a cliff, and looking up reveals endless reddish-brown mountain ranges❗️ Here, daytime and nighttime offer two extreme experiences👇 🌞Daytime recommendations: ✓ 4x4 off-road adventure (about ¥1200/person) ✓ Cliff rappelling (super thrilling! A must-try) ✓ Camel ride to watch the sunrise (perfect photo moment) 🌜Nighttime must-dos: ✓ Lie on the private terrace and stargaze ✓ Taste Michelin-star chef’s secret dishes ✓ Stargaze at the mountaintop observatory 🍽️Dining guide: 👨‍🍳Chef: Michelin-star chef Osman Sezener 🌟Specialty: Creative Peruvian cuisine with Middle Eastern flair ⏰Hours: Dinner 18:30-23:00 ✨Must-try: Desert-spiced lamb chops, saffron risotto 💆‍♀️Healing experiences: ✓ Moroccan volcanic mud spa (¥1500/90 minutes) ✓ Traditional Arabian herbal therapy ✓ Sunset yoga classes (outdoor cliff platform) This is not just a simple trip🌈 but a deep sensory exploration of nature🌠 When I left, it felt like I took a piece of this mysterious desert with me~

🌟 Our Habitas Resort proudly announces its partnership with Accor Hotels Group and will soon shine on the Accor official website under a new brand identity. Its ALULA outpost exclusively occupies the vast Ashar Valley, surrounded by magnificent sandstone canyons and lush date palm groves, stretching about two kilometers north to south. It offers extreme privacy, isolating guests from the noise of the world and immersing them in natural tranquility. 📜 Brand Story: Our Habitas originated in Tulum, Mexico, and now boasts over 10 luxury wilderness resorts across North America, Africa, and the Middle East. The three co-founders, Oliver Ripley, Kfir Levy, and Eduardo Castilloy, initially created exclusive, stylish experiences for VIPs at Burning Man, hosting a series of private events. This inspired them to develop luxury hotels aimed at building deeper emotional connections and providing immersive local experiences. Location: Situated at Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site - Hegra. It is near the popular Maraya Mirror Concert Hall. 🚗 Transportation: You can transfer through Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, to reach Al-Ula Airport, then drive 40 minutes to the hotel. 🏨 Hotel Features · -🎨 Style: The resort is deeply embedded in the stunning sandstone canyons and lush date palm groves, downplaying opulence and emphasizing sustainability. It perfectly blends “wild” and “luxury,” creating a unique serene atmosphere embraced by nature. · -🛋️ Rooms: 96 rooms and villas scattered over an approximately two-kilometer area, each offering unique valley views and excellent privacy. Stepping inside feels like embracing the vastness of the desert. · -🍽️ Dining: TAMA Restaurant is the hotel’s only dining venue, offering a fusion of Saudi, Turkish, and Western cuisines. Signature dishes like pumpkin sauce and yogurt eggplant paired with flatbread are aromatic; main courses feature local specialties such as grilled kebabs and meat wraps. · -💆🏻‍♀️ Leisure: The infinity pool nestled in the valley is breathtaking, surrounded by hundred-meter-high brown natural rock cliffs and desert, embracing the huge blue pool like a mirage. Additionally, swings and trampolines in the valley let you fully relax. 🌟 Special Experiences: · - Ride a camel along ancient caravan routes to experience traditional desert travel. · - Stargazing camping: pitch a tent deep in the desert away from light pollution and lie on the soft sand to gaze at the dazzling starry sky. · - Desert cultural exploration: with a professional guide, visit local villages and interact with warm, hospitable residents. · - Desert adventure: drive off-road vehicles over sand dunes to feel the thrill and excitement of desert off-roading. 📸 Photo Spots: Within 30 minutes, you can reach historic and popular attractions such as Rainbow Rock, Hegra, Maraya Concert Hall, Elephant Rock, Oasis, and the Old Town. 📅 Opening Time: Year-round Our Habitas Atacama Rayan Qatar

If you want to witness the birth of a new global capital, head to Saudi Arabia. 🕌 The Kingdom is steeped in history and traditions—its soul, rather than artificial decorations. 🎡 It is also home to numerous new attractions and entertainment venues, high-quality cafes, restaurants, futuristic resorts, and, of course, trendy skyscrapers. 🏠 In Saudi Arabia, you can find both premium accommodations and quality budget apartments for $40-60 per night. 💪🏻 The country is thinking on a truly grand scale: the VISION 2030 program aims to transform Saudi Arabia into a global hub for technology, investment, tourism, and production, reducing its dependence on oil revenues. The main myth about Saudi Arabia: "It's strict and boring there." Reality in 2026: e-Visa in 10 minutes upon arrival, trendy coffee shops at every corner, Michelin-starred restaurants, and complete safety. And most importantly—the locals here are genuinely happy to welcome tourists and greet them with utmost hospitality in their country.

🏜️Have you ever imagined waking up surrounded by a Mars-like landscape? This heavenly hotel in the desert, Habitas AlUla, is like a movie scene brought to life! Located in AlUla, Saudi Arabia at 2582 AlUla Saudi Arabia, it looks like a futuristic residence that doesn’t seem to exist on Earth! The sci-fi vibe is off the charts~ ✨Hotel Highlights: ▫️The "Cave Suite" I stayed in perfectly blends into the reddish-brown valley ▫️The walls feature textures of billion-year-old primitive rock ▫️Infinity pool on the cliff edge, every shot looks like a blockbuster ▫️Look up to see endless stretches of red mountains 🌞Daytime Activities: 🛺4x4 Adventure: Ride through the Wadi desert canyon (8:00-12:00/15:00-18:00) 🧗‍♀️Cliff Rappelling: Led by a professional guide team (reservation required) 🏜️Sand Dune Hiking: Experience the vast and magnificent desert 🌙Nighttime Experience: ✨Lie back and watch the starry Milky Way sky 🍸Enjoy Arabic shisha at the rooftop observatory 🎵Listen to DJ music while tasting Peruvian-style snacks 🧖‍♀️Moroccan volcanic mud SPA (open until 23:00) 🍽️Must-Try Dining: "TAMA" restaurant run by Michelin-starred chef Osman Sezener Recommended dishes: Camel meat tagine, desert-inspired fusion cuisine (Dinner 18:30-23:30) 💡Stay Tips: ▪️Best season: November to March (around 25°C) ▪️Transportation: Fly to AlUla Airport from Riyadh/Jeddah ▪️Recommended to stay at least 2 nights to experience all activities This is not just simple accommodation, but a surreal adventure experience 👽 Leaving, you’ll feel like you’ve become a "Mars resident"~

Saudi Arabia has only been open to foreign tourists for about six or seven years, so the number of visitors is not large, but all popular attractions require advance reservations. Fewer crowds, good order, attentive service, and an overall surprisingly good experience [OK] 🐘🏜️ Elephant Rock 🚗 Driving route: Depart from the center of AlUla and drive about 5 kilometers along AlUla Ring Road to reach the site. 🕒 Opening hours: Open year-round from 16:00 to 00:00; Monday to Wednesday and Saturday to Sunday from 16:00 to 00:40; Thursday to Friday open all day. 🎫 Admission: 80 SAR (about 25 RMB), guided tours provided free of charge. 🏜️ Attraction introduction: Elephant Rock is one of the most famous natural wonders in the AlUla region, named for its unique rock formation that resembles a giant elephant trunk. Here, you can enjoy magnificent wilderness landscapes and abundant wildlife such as camels, foxes, and lizards. Since it is located on the edge of the desert with unpredictable weather, it is recommended to wear wind- and sand-resistant clothing and bring enough water. 🏛️ El Kharrazah Ancient City Ruins 🚗 Driving route: Depart from the center of AlUla and drive about 12 kilometers along Wadi AlLahab Road to reach the site. 🕒 Opening hours: Open all day, year-round. 🎫 Admission: Free entry. 🏛️ Attraction introduction: The El Kharrazah Ancient City Ruins is another famous site in the AlUla region. It consists of castles and fortifications built by ancient Arabs and has now become a paradise for archaeologists and history enthusiasts. Here, you can learn about the lifestyle, architectural techniques, and artistic achievements of ancient Arabs, as well as admire exquisite stone carvings and murals. Since it is located in a mountainous area, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring enough water and sunscreen.

📍 Location: Alula Content: This time, we ventured far from the city and camped deep in the desert of Alula. The golden sand dunes at sunset were breathtakingly beautiful, and at night, the sky was filled with stars, with the Milky Way clearly visible! We gathered around the campfire, sharing stories and sipping traditional Saudi coffee, embracing the pure tranquility of the moment. The desert is not just about heat; it also offers vastness and romance. Highly recommended for nature lovers.

#discoversaudimoment Al Ula feels like a place where time slows down and nature takes the lead. Located in Al Madinah Province, this destination blends dramatic rock formations with deep history and calm desert energy. Walking through the valleys feels peaceful, with wide views, warm colors, and silence that clears your mind. Ancient sites sit naturally within the landscape, making every stop feel meaningful rather than crowded. The atmosphere is relaxed and thoughtfully managed, so exploring never feels rushed. Sunset is especially beautiful, when the rocks glow and the air cools. Cafes and viewing spots add comfort without taking away from the scenery. Al Ula is not just somewhere you visit, it is somewhere you feel. It leaves you inspired and grounded.

Why do you want to travel to Arabia? The reason is simple. The route for the fifth season of "Divas Hit the Road" is the mysterious Saudi Arabia. Whether it's the modern sleepless city 🏙️ Riyadh, the human natural heritage site Al-Ula, or the song of sand and sea Jeddah, all are deeply attracted by this collision of ancient and modern Middle East 🤩 Follow their footsteps 👣 to travel and bookmark this same route as the Divas group 👏 · 【Fun Series】 ✅ Explore the mysterious old town Walk into the narrow alleys of Jeddah Old Town and visit Nassif House Alley, a great spot for shooting vintage-style photos! · ✅ Red Sea snorkeling trip Crystal clear water, undeveloped white sandy beaches, and pristine underwater world... In Umluj, you can enjoy island scenery like the Maldives. Besides the typical blue sea and white sand, the surrounding waters of Umluj are home to more than 300 species of coral and over 1,200 species of fish. The diverse coral species with various colors and shapes fascinate diving enthusiasts. Underwater, you might even encounter green sea turtles, hawksbill turtles, dolphins, and even dugongs. · ✅ Coffee in the desert ☕️ The sunken café at Elephant Rock offers a unique romantic atmosphere at sunset. When candlelight is lit at night, it creates a different vibe. · ✅ The multifaceted mirror box Maraya The music hall’s exterior looks like a huge “mirror box,” reflecting the magnificent rocky Asir Valley scenery, super stunning 🎥 · ✅ Visit the desert oasis From towering sandstone mountains to sprawling oasis valleys, every part of Al-Ula exudes the wonders of nature’s craftsmanship~ · 【Itinerary Series】 ✔ Day 1 Arrive in Jeddah (stay at Jeddah Edition Hotel) ✔ Day 2 Jeddah (Jeddah Old Town / Taybat Museum) ✔ Day 3 Jeddah — Red Sea (stay at St. Regis Red Sea Resort) ✔ Day 4~5 St. Regis Red Sea ✔ Day 6 Red Sea — Al-Ula (stay at Al-Ula Banyan Tree) ✔ Day 7 Al-Ula (multifaceted mirror box Maraya / Hegra / Elephant Rock) ✔ Day 8 Al-Ula — Riyadh (stay at Riyadh Hyatt) ✔ Day 9 Riyadh (Saudi Arabia National Museum / Masmak Fortress / Riyadh Old Market) ✔ Day 10 Riyadh departure · 【Food Recommendations】 ✅ Saudi grilled meat Saudis love to grill various meats over charcoal. The meat is marinated before grilling and combined with the aroma of charcoal 🍖 Super delicious~ · ✅ Saudi Kusa A traditional Saudi pastry 🎂 Perfect with a cup of American breakfast coffee · ✅ Arabic milk tea Rich aroma 🥤 Smooth taste, can be paired with Kusa and other pastries. Tea lovers, don’t miss it~~ ·

#discoversaudimoment This pool, nestled amidst mountains, is Banyan Tree AlUla in Saudi Arabia. It's a premier location in the area, surrounded by massive rock formations and directly opposite the iconic Maraya Concert Hall, renowned for its unique mirrored architecture. The Ashar Valley is undergoing a revolutionary development, boasting boundless deserts, towering mountains, majestic cliffs, undulating dunes, and ancient ruins – the Arabian Peninsula has always captivated me with its natural and cultural beauty, drawing me back again and again. The Am buildings are designed with the typical earthen-walled dwellings and tents of the Ashar Valley in mind, blending gracefully and humbly into the landscape. Large, low-hanging canopies cleverly block the scorching sun, creating a tranquil, shaded environment perfect for relaxing and enjoying the view. The interior furnishings are simple yet elegant, subtly revealing the Arabian wilderness. Besides the separate living room, bedroom, dressing room, and bathroom, the outdoor area is the most inviting, complete with a private pool, lounge chairs, sofas, and a private campfire. Yoga and singing ball are particularly outstanding, boasting superior location and planning, allowing visitors to relax and unwind.

🇦Habitas Alula truly shocked me! A real-life "Dune" palace🏜️ The pinnacle of wild luxury resorts!✨ 🏨 "Habitas Resort" 𝐇𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐬 𝐀𝐥𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐚 📍Location: Ashar Canyon, AlUla region, Saudi Arabia 🕰️Opening Hours: Open year-round This legendary wild luxury hotel made me bow down! Even the air smells like money💸 ⚫️【About HABITAS】 Hotel group founded in 2014 Young but extremely selective with locations! ✔️Bacalar, Mexico ✔️Namibia, Africa All located in stunning hidden gems around the world🌍 Known as the "Wild Luxury Hotel Maker" Every property is a breathtaking masterpiece✨ 🏜️【Must-Know About Al Ula】 A magical 8,000-year-old oasis in northwest Saudi Arabia Surrounded by spectacular sandstone canyons Habitas Alula, opened just last November Has already become a hotspot for global influencers📸 ⭐️Hotel Highlights⭐️ 1️⃣【Stunning Location】 Right inside Ashar Canyon Perfectly blends with the surrounding desert rock walls Like a castle grown from the earth🏰 2️⃣【Full Middle Eastern Style】 Large glass windows frame all the views🖼️ Low sofas and distinctive rugs create an amazing vibe Every snap is an Instagram-worthy masterpiece🤳 3️⃣【Maximum Futuristic Feel】 All buildings are 3D printed! 96 rooms🏠 Choose from Canyon rooms, Niche rooms, or Celestial rooms Powered entirely by solar energy, super eco-friendly♻️ 4️⃣【Must-Visit Spots】 ✨Tama Restaurant Nestled against natural rock cliffs With a stunning blue infinity pool🌊 Enjoy Michelin-level dining while taking in the views This is the joy of the wealthy! 👉Practical Tips: · Don’t forget to check in at the hotel’s infinity pool · Big temperature difference between morning and night, bring a jacket · Recommend booking 3 months in advance Guaranteed to get you a 9-grid post🤩

#discoversaudimoment In the heart of the Al Ula Desert, a land steeped in history, there's a must-see attraction: the Maraya Concert Hall, the world's largest all-mirror building, a fantastical structure that seems to have stepped out of time. As you drive closer, you might feel like you're filming a car commercial on a set from the movie *Dune*. *Maraya* means "mirror" in Arabic, and the building's name corresponds to its 9,740 square meters of reflective glass panels, presenting a minimalist and pure design that projects a futuristic aesthetic against the yellow sand.

#discoversaudimoment Al Ula is a historic city in Saudi Arabia. Tourism has allowed the region to preserve world-class historical sites and natural wonders while simultaneously creating new attractions and hotels. The most famous landmarks are Elephant Rock and the ancient city, must-see destinations for tourists. The famous rock is Elephant Rock, known in Arabic as Jabal Al-Fil. Located 11 kilometers northeast of Al Ula, this geological wonder is one of the city's most famous landmarks. Over millions of years, sandstone has been eroded by water and wind, slowly forming a shape resembling an elephant. Elephant Rock is 52 meters high. A crevice exists between its "head" and "body," which can be walked through. Surrounded by a flat desert, Elephant Rock stands out prominently, echoing the distant mountain ranges. Visiting at night is even more romantic.