FAQs
Planning your trip and what to expect
AlUla has been famously receiving and welcoming visitors for thousands of years. The ancient Dadanites and the Nabataeans greeted pilgrims and those travelling historic routes with hospitality and a safe place to stay along their journeys. That’s true of the people of AlUla today.
As a visitor, it’s still important to plan your trip and know what to expect, in order to get the most out of your AlUla experience.
About AlUla
Language
Climate & seasons
May through September sees an increase in heat in this desert climate, with temperatures ranging from 20–35C (60–95F). The humidity in AlUla is much lower than other cities across the Arabian Peninsula, so expect a dry heat.
Currency & shopping
Electronics & connectivity
For electrical devices, AlUla uses the same power plugs and sockets as in the United Kingdom (Type G)
Culture & religion
Festivals & holidays
Ramadan: During the holy month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Most restaurants close during the day, however hotels will offer dining options and certain kiosks around the city offer takeaways. Most restaurants open for iftar, the evening meal during which Muslims break their fast after Maghrib, or sunset prayer. The start of Ramadan varies each year depending on the sighting of the new moon.
Eid Al Fitr: To celebrate the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate the Eid Al Fitr. Eid Al Fitr in AlUla is a time for family and friends to come together and enjoy meals, celebrations, and many local activities. During the first three of five days, most businesses remain closed and restaurants may have shorter operating hours.
Eid Al Adha: The second of the Eid celebrations is known as the greater Eid. A celebration a day after the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage, it falls on the tenth day in the final month of the Islamic Lunar Calendar. As the dates of Hajj also vary slightly year to year, so does the actual day of Eid Al Adha. Five days before and after Eid most businesses close and restaurants have shorter opening hours.
Saudi National Day: This special day celebrates the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and is held annually on 23 September. All businesses close for this national holiday, however the day is celebrated with many special events and activities around the country, including AlUla's Azimuth Festival.
Saudi Founding Day: This public annual holiday takes places on 22 February and commemorates the foundation of the Saudi state in 1727 by Imam Mohammed bin Saud. Expect festivities across several days with the likes of parades, concerts and other special celebrations.
Laws & Local Customs
Is alcohol available in AlUla?
Are LGBT visitors welcome to visit AlUla?
Are unmarried couples welcome to visit AlUla?
How should you dress in public?
How much should I tip?
Can I fly drones in AlUla?
General Safety Information
Is AlUla safe?
Is there roadside assistance?
What hospitals and healthcare clinics are there?
For emergencies, please go to Prince Abdulmohsen Hospital in AlUla or call the Saudi Red Crescent to request an ambulance 997.
Useful Contacts
Saudi Tourism Call Center: 930
Saudi Tourism International Call Center: +966920000890
Police: 999
Saudi Ambulance: 997
For traffic accidents: 993
Highway Patrol: 996
For a more comprehensive list of useful contacts, please visit https://www.visitsaudi.com/en/understand/useful-contacts.

We are here to help you Experience AlUla in the best possible way. Have a question or enquiry? We would love to hear from you.
FAQ's and What to Expect
Learn about AlUla's culture and explore trip ideas and day-by-day itineraries of what to do.
Questions About AlUla
Have a general enquiry about visiting AlUla? Please call a representative at 00 966 920 025 003 available daily, 9 am - 9 pm. Eid AlAdha week (25 June – 1 July) - 9 am to 5 pm daily.
Booking Changes
Do you wish to go on a later date? Contact a representative at 00 966 920 025 003 to help make your changes. available daily, 9:00 am - 9:00 pm.
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