Nestled in the northwest of Saudi Arabia
Tucked away in the lap of Saudi Arabia's northwest is the city of AlUla, a monument to the enduring legacy of civilizations as well as a keeper of Islamic history. AlUla has weaved its complex threads into the larger story of Islamic legacy across time, providing a unique window into the spiritual and cultural turning points that have influenced the area. This essay explores the rich history of AlUla and its significance to the spiritual underpinnings of Islam as we set out to explore the Islamic complexities of the city. AlUla is a real example of the confluence of faith, history, and the ongoing spirit of Islamic culture, with everything from historic rock tombs to echoes of Prophet Saleh's tale.Nestled in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, AlUla stands as a tribute to the enduring legacies of past civilizations and as a preserver of Islamic history. Over time, AlUla has intricately woven its story into the broader narrative of Islamic heritage, offering a unique perspective on spiritual and cultural milestones that have shaped the region. This essay explores AlUla's rich history and its significance to the spiritual foundations of Islam, delving into its complexities as a beacon of faith, history, and the ongoing spirit of Islamic culture. From ancient rock tombs to echoes of Prophet Saleh's narrative, AlUla embodies the convergence of these elements.
DAILY
1/18/20248 min read
The Enigmatic Story of Hazrat Saleh: A Glimpse into History
The tale of Prophet Saleh (peace be upon him) and the Thamud people is pivotal to AlUla's historical tapestry. According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Saleh was chosen by Allah to guide the Thamud tribe residing in AlUla. The town boasted lush gardens and impressive rock-carved structures that showcased their advanced architecture.
However, the Thamud inhabitants succumbed to arrogance and strayed from righteousness. Prophet Saleh, as a divine messenger, preached morality and monotheism, urging worship of Allah alone while cautioning against pride and disobedience. Despite his efforts, the Thamud stubbornly rejected his message, leading to tragic consequences
The story of Prophet Saleh (peace be upon him) and the people of Thamud is essential to the historical fabric of AlUla. According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Saleh was sent by Allah to lead the Thamud tribe, a tribe residing in the AlUla region. The town was endowed with plenty, including verdant gardens and imposing buildings that showcased their sophisticated architectural skills and were carved out of the rock.
Divine Wrath and the Azaab on AlUla City
The Thamud faced divine punishment, known as "azaab," for their disobedience. Their prosperous city was forever altered by a catastrophic disaster. Allah decreed a special punishment, described in Islamic scriptures. A mighty roar reverberated through valleys, signaling divine judgment. A massive earthquake shook Thamud's grand structures, reducing them to rubble.
Prophet Saleh and his followers who heeded his warning were spared amidst the turmoil. The defiant residents perished, a stark lesson on disobedience.
Prophet Muhammad's Reference to AlUla: Lessons for Humanity
The legacy of AlUla and Prophet Saleh's tale endure in Islamic teachings. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) cited AlUla as a cautionary tale against arrogance, disobedience, and rejection of divine guidance in Hadiths. He emphasized humility and submission to Allah, using AlUla's ruins as reminders of justice's consequences.
AlUla Today: Bridging Past and Present
Today, AlUla blends ancient ruins with modern life, offering a vibrant landscape for visitors. UNESCO recognizes sites like Madain Saleh and Nabataean tombs, highlighting AlUla's historical significance. Travelers flock not just for scenic beauty but also to explore its rich history.
Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) Reference to AlUla: Lessons from the Past
The legacy of AlUla and the tale of Prophet Saleh did not vanish from memory. The last messenger of Islam, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), referenced the fate of AlUla as a powerful lesson for future generations. AlUla is used as a warning against the dangers of haughtiness, disobedience, and rejecting divine guidance in several hadiths, or sayings, of the Prophet.
Prophet Muhammad warned his followers against following the destructive path followed by the people of Thamud and underlined the need for humility and surrender to Allah. The silent reminders of a bygone period that remain today, the ruins of AlUla, echo the prophetic lessons and serve as a constant reminder of what happens when one deviates from the path of justice.
AlUla Today: A Bridge between Past and Present
Visitors are met with a landscape that skillfully blends the ruins of ancient civilizations with the bustling pulse of modern life as they discover the modern marvel that is AlUla. The city is now a dynamic example of the human spirit's tenacity and the timeless truths found within its difficult landscape.
The remarkable Madain Saleh and other archaeological sites in AlUla have been inducted as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, highlighting the historical significance of the city. The magnificent Nabataean tombs, set into crimson cliffs, are a reminder of the masterful construction of another period. Travelers and pilgrims alike swarm to AlUla, not just to take in the breathtaking scenery but also to consider the rich historical legacy that has molded the area.
AlUla Travel Guide: (Luxurious) Journey Through Time
Ever wondered why AlUla is considered “cursed” in ancient tales? Embark on a journey through the captivating history and attractions of AlUla with my travel guide.
AlUla, specifically Madain Saleh, part of the AlUla region, is considered “cursed” due to its association with the ancient city of Thamud. According to Islamic tradition, Thamud was destroyed by divine punishment for its people’s disobedience and idolatry. Prophet Muhammad advised against visiting such sites lightly, emphasizing reverence and reflection to avoid similar fates. However, AlUla’s destiny changed when Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman prioritized it as a key project in his “Vision 2030” plan. If you are curious about the “Journey through Time” and the destination marketing project, read my post here.
Travel Itinerary for 2.5-3 Days in AlUla (Spoiler: Not Enough!)
After spending 2.5 days exploring AlUla, I strongly suggest allowing yourself at least 3 full days to enjoy all the areas and experiences at a more relaxed pace. The desert vibes are so chill that you’d regret not having enough time to kick back and enjoy the scenery properly. Trust me, it’s worth taking at least that extra day to fully immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere and enjoy all the cool stuff around here. If you’re an adrenaline seeker or like hiking, you will find plenty of activities to keep you busy!
If you find yourself in AlUla when there aren’t any festivals happening, it’s pretty strange—there’s always something going on, as you can see on the ExperienceAlUla website: from culture and art to wellness, to sport races like Tough Mudder or Desert Blaze, and music festivals like Azimuth. You’ll find plenty of options to keep you entertained. A great alternative is to visit Dadan, an ancient archaeological site rich in history and culture. Another fascinating destination is Jabal Ikmah, the so-called “Open-Air Library,” an intriguing collection of inscriptions and carvings on rock faces that scholars believe served as a repository of knowledge, akin to a library.
I’ve already covered transportation and accommodation tips for AlUla in my essential pre-trip guide. Be sure to check it out for helpful insights before your journey!
In this post, I’ll share the activities and tours I experienced in the city. While I didn’t hit up every spot on the map, here’s a roundup of the must-visit places for your stay and how much I spent on my solo trip. Since it’s a luxury destination, I wouldn’t recommend traveling solo, at least to split the cost of accommodation and transfers. All other prices are per person. And now that I’ve done the math, I’m about to fall off my chair.
How Much Does a Long Weekend in AlUla Cost?
The cost of a long weekend in AlUla can vary depending on factors such as accommodation, transportation, activities, and dining preferences. Indeed it’s more of a luxury destination! On average, budgeting for accommodation ranging from $50 to $200 per night (excluding luxury options like Habitas AlUla), transportation costs including taxis or rental cars, activity fees, and meals can amount to anywhere from $350 to $1000 or more for a long weekend trip. Here’s how much I spent for my 3 days traveling return from Dubai.
Item
Cost (سSA)
Return Flight from Dubai via Riyadh
1700
Saudi e-visa (1 year validity)
480
Accommodation Riyadh (1 night)
490
Accommodation AlUla (2 nights)
1700
Taxis (airport transfers + moving in AlUla)
1085
Food & Drinks (no fine dining)
450
Hegra tour (3h)
95
Helicopter tour (30min)
995
Abseiling experience (2.5h)
185
Habitas AlUla day pass
350
Desert X 2024 entrance
FREE
Total Spent
7530
($2000)
Day 1 | Riyadh - AlUla
Morning
Flight to AlUla: After a quick stopover in Riyadh (since Flynas doesn’t offer direct flights from Dubai to AlUla anymore), I caught the first available flight to AlUla around 12:30 PM.
Afternoon
Caravan Check-in & Helicopter Tour: Upon arrival, my driver, Sultan, took me to my accommodation at Four Caravan. After checking in, I took a taxi to AlUla Old Town for lunch at Somewhere restaurant.
Helicopter Ride: The helicopter ride over AlUla’s vast landscapes was breathtaking. The 30-minute flight, though expensive, offered an unparalleled view of the area, including the famous carved tombs.
Evening
Elephant Rock: After the helicopter ride, I visited Elephant Rock, also known as Jabal AlFil. It’s a popular spot for photography, especially at sunset.
Day 2 | AlUla
Morning
Hegra Tour (9:00-12:00): The tour started at Winter Park and covered major sites like Jabal Ithlib, Jabal Al Banat, and the Tomb of Lihyan son of Kuza.
Afternoon
Desert X AlUla (2:00-6:00): I explored the Desert X biennale, which featured 15 installations under the theme “In the Presence of Absence.” The experience was incredible, with art pieces ingeniously placed within the natural landscape.
Evening
AlUla Old Town (7:00-11:00): I strolled through the Daimumah Oasis and the Old Town, soaking in its ambiance and enjoying the street filled with cafes and small eateries.
Day 3 | AlUla - Dubai
Morning
Abseiling Experience (8:30-11:00): I started my day with an abseiling adventure at the AlUla Adventure Hub. The experience was exhilarating and lasted about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including a 20-minute hike to the starting point.
Maraya (11:30-12:00): After the abseiling experience, I visited Maraya, the mirrored building consisting of nearly 10,000 mirrors. It’s the largest of its kind in the world and reflects the stunning desert landscape.
Lunch
Habitas AlUla (12:00-2:00): I spent the afternoon at Habitas AlUla, enjoying lunch at Tama Restaurant and participating in a 30-minute “breathwork and meditation” session.
Afternoon
Transfer to Airport & Flight Back (3:30-4:30): After a peaceful afternoon at Habitas, Sultan drove me to the airport for my flight back to Dubai.
FAQs
What is the significance of AlUla in Islamic history?
AlUla is renowned for its ties to Prophet Saleh and the Thamud people, highlighting its role in Islamic heritage.
Why is AlUla considered cursed in ancient tales?
According to tradition, AlUla (specifically Madain Saleh) is associated with the Thamud tribe, who faced divine punishment due to disobedience and idolatry.
What attractions make AlUla a unique travel destination?
AlUla boasts UNESCO-listed sites like Madain Saleh and Nabataean tombs, blending ancient ruins with modern attractions.
How did AlUla's destiny change in recent years?
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 initiative prioritized AlUla's preservation and development as a cultural and tourism hub
What are the recommended activities during a visit to AlUla?
Visitors can enjoy activities such as helicopter tours, desert art exhibitions like Desert X, and historical site tours like Hegra.
What is the ideal itinerary for a trip to AlUla?
A typical itinerary includes visits to Hegra, Desert X exhibitions, AlUla Old Town, and modern attractions like Maraya.
How much does a trip to AlUla cost?
Costs vary based on accommodation, activities, and dining preferences, with average expenses ranging from $350 to $1000 for a long weekend trip.
What transportation options are available in AlUla?
Visitors can utilize taxis or rental cars for local travel, with options for guided tours to major attractions.
What cultural events and festivals can be experienced in AlUla?
AlUla hosts various events throughout the year, including cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and adventure races like Tough Mudder.
Why is AlUla recommended as a destination for spiritual reflection?
The ruins of Thamud and Prophet Saleh's story serve as reminders of humility and divine justice, making AlUla ideal for spiritual contemplation.
Conclusion: AlUla - A City of Reflection and Revelation
AlUla invites visitors to explore historical narratives and uncover the profound teachings concealed within its rugged embrace. It is a place of ancient legends and breathtaking archaeological discoveries. A sobering reminder of what happens to those who deviate from the path of justice is provided by Hazrat Saleh's waqia and the azaab that followed on the inhabitants of Thamud.
The Prophet Muhammad's allusions to AlUla have endured because they teach modern Muslims the value of modesty, piety, and unshakeable faith. Standing at the nexus of the past and present, AlUla invites us to consider the timeless wisdom contained in its rugged landscapes and to be inspired by the teachings of the mission of Prophet Saleh and the divine vengeance that transpired in the ancient city. content