AlUla, is set to come alive with history, legends, and different experiences during the annual Ancient Kingdoms Festival, taking place from November 16th to December 2nd, 2023. This two-week extravaganza will take you back in time, offering an opportunity to explore the rich heritage and incredible tales of the region.

This year’s festival puts the spotlight on the ancient cities of the Incense Road, particularly Dadan and Hegra. These sites have a remarkable legacy as historic crossroads that connected various cultures throughout the ages. They served as essential spots along the ancient Incense Road, facilitating the transportation of precious commodities such as frankincense, myrrh, spices, and jewels.

A special milestone in 2023 is the 15-year anniversary of Hegra’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition honors the Nabataean city as a significant chapter in global history and marks the first such designation for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To celebrate this occasion, the festival has been designed with Hegra as the epicenter, introducing many ways to experience this iconic site.

Visitors can go on a special tour using Augmented Reality (AR) glasses, unlocking the untold stories of the past that were previously known only to experts and scholars. They can also enjoy in the natural heritage of the Hegra landscape with the latest Wildlife and Nature Tour, launching in the festival’s second half. One of the highlights not to be missed is the in-situ exhibition, “Life at Hegra,” curated by AlUla’s heritage experts, which showcases fifteen objects discovered at the site, providing a glimpse into Nabataean life.

Visitors can also discover the capital of the two Ancient Kingdoms, Dadan, a key trading post on the Incense Road. Here, people of all ages can witness new discoveries in real time. Additionally, visitors will get a first look at an exciting new site believed to be the ancient ostrich hunting ground of the people of Dadan.

Beyond Hegra and Dadan, the Festival’s program features a range of events that bring the stories of AlUla’s oasis to life. It activates the historic oases of Khaybar and Tayma, offering story-inspired recreations, hands-on history family events, and imaginative heritage dining experiences.

This year’s festival program is dedicated to the community and families, including the launch of an ambitious schools engagement program and a variety of active-learning modules aimed at engaging young minds. The Festival also presents opportunities for local employment and skills development.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to explore the wonders of AlUla and its rich heritage. For more information and to book tickets, visit [Experience AlUla](https://www.experiencealula.com/en/alula-moments/ancient-kingdoms-festival).

For more information visit their website: experiencealula.com

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