UNWTO Best Tourism Village

UNWTO Best Tourism Village

AlUla Old Town

In the second edition of the initiative, a new cohort of 32 villages from 22 countries across the world have been selected by an independent Advisory Board for this prestigious award. Celebrating this monumental achievement, an official ceremony will be held on 13 March 2023 in AlUla. Bringing together these 32 extraordinary rural destinations, this event aims to forge long-lasting bonds by sharing art, poetry, traditions and more.

New Opportunities

Combining ancient history with genuine local knowledge, the Rawi programme was established to employ residents as tourism guides. Each “Rawi”, meaning storyteller in Arabic, brings their own unique perspective to every tour.

Uplifting the Community

At the centre of the AlJadidah Arts District is the old girls’ school, Madrasat Addeera, which has been renovated to become a school for teaching women pottery, jewellery making, and other traditional handicrafts, which are then sold in shops around AlUla Old Town.

Intangible Heritage

AlUla is also preserving its intangible cultural heritage, including local traditions of dance, music, poetry, storytelling, and more. These ancient traditions are showcased through immersive shows, pop-up performances and cultural festivities held throughout the village.

Innovation & Sustainability

Farmers have harnessed the abundance of natural resources and the amazing biodiversity of this lush Oasis for centuries. Blending ancient farming techniques with sustainable new practices through restoration efforts, the farms are producing more than ever, allowing for fresh farmers markets across AlUla.

13 March 2023

AlUla Old Town to Host Official Ceremony

In the second edition of the initiative, a new cohort of 32 villages from 22 countries across the world have been selected by an independent Advisory Board for this prestigious award. Celebrating this monumental achievement, an official ceremony will be held on 13 March 2023 in AlUla. Bringing together these 32 extraordinary rural destinations, this event aims to forge long-lasting bonds by sharing art, poetry, traditions and more.

AlUla Old Town

AlUla Old Town has 900 mudbrick houses, 400 shops and five rahbas, or town squares. Traces of original stone and mudbrick structures can be found at this remarkable site, with winding alleyways, windows glimpsing hidden lanes and roof-top terraces that only hint at the world within.

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AlUla Old Town Village

A crossroads of civilisations and oasis city on incense-trading routes, people have inhabited AlUla for thousands of years. Today AlUla Old Town Village encompasses its fascinating mudbrick Old Town, the lush Oasis and vibrant AlJadidah Arts District.

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Plan Your Trip To AlUla

Flying to AlUla

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What to Do

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Where to Eat

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Where to Stay

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