Dadan
Charting AlUla’s Rich History in Dadan
Amongst the most significant discoveries in all of AlUla is the city of Dadan, the capital of the Dadan and Lihyan kingdoms. The city, which was built meticulously from stone and astride the valley’s oasis, dates back between the late 9th and early 8th century BCE (Kingdom of Dadan) and 5th–2nd century BCE (Kingdom of Lihyan).

National Geographic Documentary Premiere
Watch Lost Treasures of Arabia: The ancient city of Dadan, the first ever feature length documentary uncovering the secrets of this ancient 9th Century BCE civilisation. The Ancient City of Dadan is an amazing story of a more than 2000-year-old civilisations produced by National Geographic CreativeWorks.
What You Can't Miss
Other Special Places To See
Inscriptions feature terms relating to agriculture, including the seasons, types of produce, water and parcels of land. Around this ancient valley, you can observe other inscriptions in Dadanitic. These writings detail the everyday lives of these once-great civilisations, from their religious practices and social activities, to the laws and edicts that governed them.
Discoveries of sculptural items through archaeological excavations in Dadan, suggests that a sculpture school or workshop may have existed in the area. Several statues are life-sized or larger, with some measuring up to 2.7-metres tall. They are all similar in appearance, depicting men with strong limbs, defined stomachs and broad shoulders, with hands clenched, the left foot forward and a stern gaze. Researchers do not know exactly who the statues represent, but it is likely they were carved for high-status members of society.
Visitor Information
Alternatively, you may purchase your tickets at the information desk located at Winter Park, before starting your experience at the Dadan visitor centre.
Explore the Dadan Heritage Trail to Old Town
The Heritage Trail from Dadan South, arriving to Old Town and passing by AlWadi area is 3 km long and will offer visitors an extraordinary nature stroll through the AlUla farms, suitable for families and nature-lovers of all ages.