AlUla

AlUla is Saudi Arabia's standout heritage destination and the main reason many international travellers are now adding the country to a longer Middle East itinerary. Hegra, a Nabataean city of monumental rock-cut tombs similar in style to Petra but far less visited, was the country's first UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the headline attraction. Elephant Rock, a huge natural sandstone formation, and the mud-brick lanes of AlUla Old Town round out the main sightseeing, while the striking mirrored Maraya Concert Hall — one of the largest mirrored buildings in the world — hosts events and performances set against the desert landscape.

AlUla is a purpose-built tourism destination, with desert resorts, guided Hegra tours (required to visit the tombs) and increasingly well-developed infrastructure for international visitors. It's reachable by domestic flight from Riyadh or Jeddah, or via AlUla's own airport (ULH) on some routes. As with Riyadh, Saudi tourist visa and entry conditions are still evolving, so Indian passport holders should confirm current e-visa eligibility, dress and conduct expectations, flight routing, hotel vouchers and travel insurance before booking. Smiles To Miles can combine AlUla with Riyadh as a single Saudi Arabia itinerary.

Planning this journey from India? Explore AlUla holiday packages, review the visa documents checklist, or speak with our New Delhi travel team for a customised itinerary.