Hegra is Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important archaeological locations in the Arabian Peninsula. Dating back to the Nabataean Kingdom (1st century BCE – 1st century CE), it was a vital stop along ancient trade routes linking Arabia with the Levant and the Mediterranean. The site features more than 110 rock-cut tombs carved into sandstone formations, many with beautifully preserved façades, inscriptions, and symbolic details reflecting Nabataean beliefs and social structure. Highlights include Qasr Al-Farid (the Lonely Castle), the largest and most iconic tomb, as well as ancient wells and ceremonial areas that demonstrate advanced desert engineering. Visitors explore Hegra by guided shuttle, stopping at key points while learning about the Nabataeans’ architecture, trade, and daily life. Surrounded by dramatic desert landscapes, Hegra offers a powerful and immersive introduction to AlUla’s ancient heritage.

Shalal Cafe is a tranquil stop set amid AlUla’s striking desert landscapes, offering a relaxing break during the day’s exploration. Surrounded by natural rock formations and open valley views, the café provides a peaceful atmosphere to unwind, refresh, and enjoy the scenery. Guests can relax with a selection of hot and cold beverages and light refreshments while taking photos of the surrounding environment or simply enjoying the calm desert ambiance. The shaded seating areas make it an ideal place to pause between major sightseeing stops. This stop allows travelers to slow the pace, recharge, and appreciate AlUla’s natural beauty before continuing on to the cultural and architectural highlights of the tour.

Maraya is one of AlUla’s most iconic modern landmarks and holds the Guinness World Record as the largest mirrored building in the world. Set against the dramatic sandstone cliffs of Ashar Valley, its reflective façade blends seamlessly into the surrounding desert, creating a striking visual illusion where architecture and nature merge. The guided tour introduces visitors to Maraya’s innovative design, sustainability concept, and cultural role as a venue for world-class concerts, exhibitions, and international events. Inside, the minimalist interiors contrast beautifully with the mirrored exterior, offering curated spaces dedicated to art, culture, and performance. Maraya represents AlUla’s vision of harmonizing heritage with contemporary creativity, making it a must-see stop that showcases the region’s transformation into a global cultural destination.

AlUla Old Town is a historic settlement dating back more than 900 years, once home to pilgrims, traders, and local families along ancient caravan routes. The area features a maze of mudbrick houses, narrow alleyways, and open courtyards, reflecting traditional Hijazi and Najdi architectural styles. This portion of the visit is self-guided, allowing guests to explore the restored village at their own pace. Visitors can wander through the atmospheric streets, discover cultural spaces, and experience the authentic ambiance of old AlUla independently. A relaxed lunch break is included, offering time to enjoy local cafés and restaurants. Today, AlUla Old Town blends preserved heritage with modern dining and cultural venues, providing an authentic and flexible experience of AlUla’s living history.

Elephant Rock, locally known as Jabal AlFil, is one of AlUla’s most famous natural landmarks. This massive sandstone formation, shaped remarkably like an elephant with its trunk touching the ground, has been sculpted over millions of years by wind and erosion. Visitors arrive in the late afternoon to enjoy a stunning sunset as the changing light casts warm hues across the surrounding desert and rock formations. The area is designed for relaxed exploration, with open walking paths, seating areas, and nearby cafés offering refreshments. Elephant Rock provides a memorable conclusion to the day, combining natural beauty, tranquil desert ambiance, and excellent photo opportunities as the sun sets over AlUla’s dramatic landscape.