Nestled in the heart of Saudi Arabia’s northwestern region, AlUla is a breathtaking oasis rich in natural beauty and historical significance. Its history resonates through stunning sandstone cliffs, ancient rock formations, and archeological sites.
The ancient city, with its rugged mountains and desert landscapes, has been a crossroads of various civilizations, from the Nabateans and the Lihyans to the Romans and the Ottomans. You can experience the echoes of these cultures at the Ancient Kingdoms Festival.
The returning festival will run until the end of November and will bring a range of activities. You can enjoy various daytime events, guided exploratory tours, and evening excursions that draw inspiration from ancient narratives, all led by a dedicated team committed to providing an outstanding experience.
The Ancient Kingdoms Festival
The Ancient Kingdoms Festival is more than a mere celebration, it is a homage to the region’s past and a hopeful vision for its future. The festival highlights this historical tapestry, inviting visitors to explore the myriad of cultural influences that have shaped the region.
The area is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Madain Salih, which features intricate tombs and evidence of advanced urban planning dating back thousands of years.
Among AlUla’s numerous cultural events, the Ancient Kingdom’s Festival is a beacon of AlUla’s unique culture, attracting locals and tourists alike. This annual festival is more than just a showcase of ancient civilizations; it is a tribute to the region’s rich history and cultural legacy.
The Ancient Kingdoms Festival location
The festival will take place across AlUla, including Hegra and Wadi AlNaam.
The Ancient Kingdoms Festival date
You can participate in family-friendly activities until Saturday, November 30.
The Ancient Kingdoms Festival tickets
Tickets are available on experiencealula.com and range from SAR120 to SAR1,295.
Masterpieces of the MANN and Future Ancients Arena are free.
The Ancient Kingdoms Festival events
Masterpieces of the MANN: A key feature of the festival is the exhibition Masterpieces of the MANN, curated by the National Archaeological Museum of Naples (MANN) and hosted at the Maraya cultural venue. This exhibition, featuring artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum, marks their debut in the Kingdom. This exhibition will remain accessible even after the festival, allowing you to explore these remarkable artifacts for an extended period.
Hegra After Dark: An event at the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia, it will be available until February 28, 2025, and will feature a history-inspired theatre show with a cast of 40 top performers, interactive activities, and a horse-drawn carriage ride. Step into a theatre of life among Hegra’s stunning tombs and immerse yourself in the rich sights, sounds, and flavors of the Nabataean era.
Hegra After Dark – Stories from the Sky: A drone show, which will take place on Thursday, November 14, and Friday, November 15.
The Hegra Candlelit Classics: This series will feature musical performances that will be on Friday, November 22. You can also catch the show on the following Friday, November 29.
Hegra Sunrise Sky Tour: This activity allows you to set off on a hot air balloon ride above Hegra. It will be available from Friday, November 15.
Hegra Family Tour: A tour designed for families to explore Hegra, which will be available on Saturdays, November 16, 23, and 30.
Quest for the Ancient Kingdoms: A treasure hunt in Wadi AlNaam (Valley of the Ostriches), available until Thursday, February 27, 2025. This area is a stunning gorge historically used for hunting by the ancient Dadan people.
Future Ancients Arena: An engaging experience for families through creative hands-on activities relating to past sculptures and artifacts. There will be a Face Makers activity where kids can create masks and a Pop Up Puppets area where they can create puppets.
The Incense Road Experience: Set in AlUla’s Old Town, the experience will take you on an immersive journey through the narrow alleys adorned with traditional mud-brick structures. This exceptional experience combines live performances and modern technology, creating interactive narratives that reveal archaeological wonders. This particular activity is available until Saturday, April 5, 2025.
Ancient Rituals – Yoga on the Incense Road: A meditative yoga session that will be available on Saturday, November 23, and Saturday, November 30.
Kadim Al Sahir: The beloved Iraqi singer and composer will captivate audiences with his enchanting melodies on Friday, November 22.
Naseer Shamma and Khatia Buniatishvili: The celebrated Iraqi musician and the acclaimed Georgian pianist will grace the festival on Friday, November 29, showcasing their extraordinary talent and passion for music.
Festivals In Saudi
The Kingdom has been bustling with numerous events, festivals, and activities, especially with the vibrant Riyadh Season bringing even more excitement to the forefront. The Winter at Tantora Festival is set to return to AlUla, while Eats and Beats 2024 provided guests with incredible food and electrifying beats.
SAR120-SAR1,295. Ending Sat Nov 30. Across AlUla, experiencealula.com.
