Hegra

Remembering the past

Reach back into the past and encounter AlUla’s ancient cultures and learn about how people lived. Observe expertly carved stone blocks – or betyls – that acted as representations of the gods. Away from Hegra’s captivating tombs, this ancient Nabataean city also boasts examples of ancient engineering and craftsmanship such as wells and stone-lined water channels. Defensive walls, gates and towers that once encircled the city show the Roman influence at Hegra.

Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site

Populated since before the 1st millennium BCE, Hegra is renowned for its more than 110 well-preserved burial tombs carved from desert rock in which the Nabataean elite were laid to rest. Some chambers carry inscriptions describing the person laid within – perhaps a healer, a military figure, or a local leader.

Limited-time exhibitions

For the first time, visitors can come face to face with an over 2,000-year-old Nabataean woman. ‘Hinat’, as she is affectionately known by the archaeologists, was excavated from one of Hegra’s tombs in 2008. A small exhibition at the Hegra Visitor Centre gives an insight into the creation of the world’s first reconstruction of a Nabataean woman and explores her life in this once vibrant city at the heart of the Incense Road. This special exhibition commemorates Hegra’s 15th Anniversary as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How to experience Hegra

Discover the astonishing, ancient Nabataean city of Hegra, untouched for millennia

Know before you go

Insights to help make Hegra part of your AlUla experience

Location

Hegra, Saudi Arabia

Get directions

What is the best way to explore Hegra?

The best way to explore the ancient city of Hegra is by joining an organised tour, either in a private vintage Land Rover or on a coach. These tours include visits to various tombs within the site complex and start from SAR 95, with a duration of approximately two hours. Self-driving is not allowed.

Can I walk inside the tombs?

All visitors must adhere to the designated walking paths around Hegra. It is prohibited to enter non-designated areas, including the tombs. There is still much to be discovered, and entering the tombs or touching the engravings may cause irreparable damage.

What will I see on a tour of Hegra?

Guided coach or Land Rover tours stop at all the best sites, including Jabal Ithlib, Jabal Banat, Tomb of Lihyan son of Kuza, Jabal Ahmar and Jabal Khuraymat.

Should I book tickets in advance?

As there are a limited number of tours each day, it is highly recommended that you pre-book your tour. Purchasing tickets at the visitor centre is also possible, according to availability.

Is there parking nearby?

Yes, there is free parking located at Hegra South Gate. Tour meeting points are also located here. Alternatively, visitors may go to Winter Park in AlUla and take a coach to the tour meeting point.

Can I take a momento from Hegra?

Please only take photographs. Do not remove or take anything from the tombs or from the ground. Visitors who mistreat the monuments will be asked to leave.

What's inside the Hegra Visitor Centre?

The Hegra Visitor Centre offers guests a taste of traditional Arab hospitality; based on the seasons, this may include dates and other dried fruits, fresh juices, and Saudi coffee. There is also an exhibition space and a gift shop.

Are children allowed on the tours?

All ages are welcome; children ages 4 years and below are free of charge.

Can I smoke?

Smoking is prohibited anywhere near the heritage sites, except in designated smoking areas located along the tour route.

Is there somewhere to buy some water?

Bottled water will be provided on the tour, but visitors are also encouraged to bring their own water bottles.

Can I get a refund if I can't make the tour?

Cancelled experiences up to 3 days before the scheduled tour will be refunded (excluding credit card fees). Experiences cancelled within 1-3 days before your tour may be rebooked if time slots are available, but you will not be eligible for a refund. Tours cancelled on the day of the tour cannot be refunded or rebooked.