Rock Formations Of AlUla

Rock Formations Of AlUla

Take in the striking scenery that the settlers and visitors to AlUla have enjoyed for millennia, by getting an up-close look at the dramatic rock formations that dot the desert landscape.

The Arch

One of AlUla’s most recognizable rock formations, The Arch (also known as Rainbow Rock) is well worth the 90-minute drive from the centre of the city. Its bridge-shaped structure, which resembles a rainbow flanked by two clouds, is a rare sight indeed. Though you will be enthralled by this sprawling display of sandstone, don’t miss spotting semi-precious desert diamonds on-site. You can eye these multi-coloured pieces of quartz embedded in the rock itself and scattered on the surrounding ground.

The Arch location on Google

Jabal AlFil

Also known as Elephant Rock, this formation has captured the imagination of keen photographers the world over. As the name suggests, this red sandstone marvel is shaped like an elephant with a distinctive ‘trunk’ and ‘body’ – the result of millions of years of wind and water erosion. It’s a popular camping spot, especially during festivals when the structure is bathed in light and campers can take the chance to ride a horse or camel, keep warm by the firepits, and dine on delights from the pop-up eateries.

Jabal AlFil location on Google

AlGharameel

About an hour outside of the city centre, discover dark, thin pillars of stone stretching up to the sky. This is AlGharameel. You’ll need to go off-road to reach the site, so we recommend hiring an experienced driver with a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Your reward is a view unlike any other, made even more dramatic at night when AlUla’s dark skies showcase a brilliant display of stars above the rocks. Stargazing packages welcome you to gaze at AlGharameel’s stone pillars and follow their spires upward toward the twinkling stars.

AlGharameel location on Google

Dancing Rocks

Visit the Dancing Rocks, so-called because these formations are sculpted by nature to appear as if they are swaying in unison. Located in the Raggasat Valley, the rocks seem to dance together, slightly removed from the surrounding rock formations. Appreciate the Dancing Rocks and others that extend as far as the eye can see, and plan a hike or dune buggy experience on-site. You can reach Dancing Rocks in 45 minutes from the city centre; hiring an experienced driver with a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended.

Dancing Rocks location on Google

Face Rock

Amongst the monumental tombs of Hegra, next to Jabal AlAhmar, you will notice a formation that resembles the profile of a human head gazing out over the desert landscape. Marvelling at (and taking pictures of) Face Rock is a must for any visitor to Hegra. As with all of AlUla’s rock formations, sunrise and sunset are prime times to visit, when the light plays on the sandstone, seeming to illuminate the rocks from within — a magical sight for observers and photographers alike.

face rock location on Google

Jar Rock

Millions of years of erosion have formed an opening in one of AlUla’s signature sandstone outcrops. The effect is a jar sculpted by nature; though some say it resembles a bottle or bowling pin. Decide for yourself when you visit “Jabal Jarrah.” For access, make your way via SUV to Elephant Rock, then hike to Jar Rock for views of Elephant Rock and its valley, mountain and farm views. Because there are no parking or facilities at Jar Rock, and the hike includes slippery rocks and a steep drop from the “jar,” this experience is not recommended for children.

Jar Rock location on Google

Explore More Experiences in AlUla

Yoga Classes 1.5 HOUR EXPERIENCE

Relax in this 90-minute session combining yoga and meditation, easing both mind and body while embracing AlUla’s beautiful nature.

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Helicopter Tour 30 Minute Tour

Take to the skies to experience the breath-taking views of stunning desert vistas and iconic landmarks such as Elephant Rock and World UNESCO site, Hegra. View the world from a new angle and make memories that will last a lifetime.

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Hegra Tour 2 Hour Tour

Visit Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the largest preserved site of the Nabataean civilisation south of Petra.

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Hegra Rock Art Trail 1.5 Hour Trail

Explore Hegra with a Rawi (guide) and learn the stories of the rock art found amongst the stone.

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Abseil Abseil

Experience the thrilling adventure of abseiling down AlUla’s magnificent mountain landscapes. Feel the adrenaline rush as you descend downward and embark on this outdoor journey of a lifetime.

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Alula Old Town Tour 1 Hour Tour

Tour on your own or guided by a Rawi through AlUla Old Town, where pilgrims, travellers and permanent settlers congregated through the ages.

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AlUla Old Town Market Shopping & Dining

Stroll through the outdoor market and shop local artisans, traditional crafts and cafes.

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Dadan & Jabal Ikmah Tour 2 Hour Tour

Start your journey through time at Dadan, the ancient Kingdom of the Lihyanite and Dadanite civilisations. Next, take a 10-minute drive to Jabal Ikmah situated in a stunning desert canyon.

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Hidden Valley Hike 1.5 Hour Experience

Take to the desert after dark and the tranquil ambience that surrounds you on the 4km walk.

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Oasis Trail 2 Hour Trail

Weave your way through the beautiful AlUla Oasis. This 2-hour tour is self-guided.

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Elephant Rock Visit 2 Hour Experience

Take a seat in our comfortable and stylish sunken seating, sit back and enjoy the view of our most famous geological formation Elephant Rock as she looms large over you.

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Stargazing 4 Hour Experience

AlUla is a fantastic place for stargazing. At AlGharameel, you can enjoy a traditional bedouin set-up, with an expert guide on hand to tell you about the stars and constellations, and how they relate to AlUla’s culture and history.

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Cycling Trail 2 Hour Experience

Follow the pack leader on a leisurely bike ride crossing through the sand dunes and surrounded by AlUla’s unique landscapes.

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Sadu Escape 4-Hour Experience

Rediscover your senses at Sadu Escape. Nestled in the heart of AlUla’s majestic landscapes sits a serene retreat that allows you to unwind and reconnect with yourself and nature.

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AlUla Oasis View Trail 3 Hour Experience

Operated by Jaddah Adventures. Hike up to Alfath mountain peak to catch an unforgettable view of AlUla oasis, with millions of palm trees below you.

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The Adventure Trail 3 - 4 Hour Guided Hike

Lace up your hiking shoes and hit the mountains for a half day journey led by an expert guide through the rocky terrain and deep pools of water.

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