August 2024: I finally arrived in enchanting AlUla, in the captivating north of Saudi Arabia.
The AlUla valley, nestled in the Medina Province, is home to a breathtaking oasis filled with ancient date palms. This enchanting landscape is located in Hejaz, a region that holds great historical significance for Islamic history and Saudi Arabia.
AlUla was once a vibrant market town along the historic and lucrative incense trade route, which linked India and the Arabian Gulf to the Levant and, further afield, to Europe.
Today, Alula is reinventing itself as a tourism and cultural nexus, while its surrounding topography is 'giving' Arizona Grand Canyon 'vibes.'
Upon arrival in Alula, the traveler is impressed by the stunning amber-colored sandstone that has been weather-tempered into an array of poses in this open-air art gallery.
AlUla is blessed with an elaborate underground aquifer water system and fertile soil. This water source has enabled successive tribes to settle in the area, develop irrigated agriculture, and create a green, tree-circled oasis. The traditional local families own one, two, or sometimes three farms, growing crops ranging from palm dates and citrus fruits to wheat and barley.
I took advantage of the month of August to plan my visit when prices were low and tourists were scarce. With little more than an overnight bag and a toothbrush, I was determined to experience all the sights of the area, including the archaeological site of Hegra, also called Mada'in Saleh.
When you visit Hegra, you will have the opportunity to learn about the Nabataeans. Spanning the 2nd and 4th centuries, the Nabataeans established themselves as a unique civilization and political power. Their kingdom concentrated on a trading network, which brought them significant wealth and influence across the ancient world. The capital was located in Petra, Jordan, and they were clearly excellent artisans and craftsmen.
AlUla is a fascinating destination that boasts many captivating new and newly discovered tourist attractions waiting to be explored.
Among them are Hegra, which, if I forgot to mention, was Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage site, the intriguing natural rock formation that is Elephant Rock, the stunning Maraya concert hall, the breathtaking Harrat Viewpoint, and the charming Old Town. These remarkable sites all earned a spot on my must-visit while in Saudi Arabia list.
I chose to stay at the Shaden Resort for my brief three-day weekend stay because the online reviews spoke of a wonderful resort in a breathtaking landscape delivering authentic Arab hospitality. "That's what I signed up for, and that's exactly what my traveling companion and I got.
Thank you, Alula. I will return to witness how you transform and grow because you have so much more to share.
Flights : Flynas
Hotel : Shaden Resort
Tours : Hegra by Bike at night; we found the rest of the sites ourselves.
Transport : Provided by a local taxi, and considering we used him daily, it was an acceptable rate, especially if you are used to Riyadh prices.
Komentarze