Important things to know :
Modest, breathable clothing with sun protection. Closed shoes are recommended due to sandy and rocky ground.
Yes, photography is permitted and highly encouraged, especially during golden hour.
No, entry is managed through organized guided tours only.
Yes, though younger children should be supervised due to open desert terrain and walking distances.
Most guided tours last 2–3 hours. History enthusiasts may want to combine it with other AlUla sites for a full-day experience.
About Hegra (Madāʾin Ṣāliḥ)
Hegra (Madāʾin Ṣāliḥ)
At first light, when the desert air is still cool and the sandstone glows in soft shades of rose and amber, Hegra feels almost suspended in time. The silence here is not empty — it carries stories of traders, travelers, and ancient kingdoms that once crossed this land.
Set against a wide desert horizon, Hegra is both monumental and intimate. Its tomb facades rise dramatically from solitary rock outcrops, yet the surrounding stillness invites quiet reflection. Whether you’re visiting as a couple seeking a meaningful shared moment, a family exploring ancient civilizations, or a solo traveler drawn to heritage and landscape, the experience lingers long after you leave.
Hegra dates back to the 1st century BCE and flourished under the Nabataean Kingdom, the same civilization that built Petra in Jordan. It served as a key southern outpost along the ancient incense trade routes linking Arabia with the Mediterranean world.
In 2008, Hegra became Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site — a milestone that recognized its outstanding cultural value and remarkable preservation.
Architecturally, the site is defined by 111 monumental tombs carved directly into sandstone formations. Each facade displays intricate details — columns, cornices, and inscriptions — blending Nabataean artistry with influences from Hellenistic and Mesopotamian styles.
Quick facts:
- UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 2008)
- Over 50 square kilometers of archaeological landscape
- More than 100 well-preserved rock-cut tombs
- Ancient inscriptions in Nabataean, Thamudic, and early Arabic scripts
Best Time to Visit Hegra
- November to March: Ideal season with temperatures between 15–25°C
- April & October: Warm but manageable, especially in early mornings
- Summer (May–September): Extremely hot; visits best limited to sunrise or sunset
- Golden Hour: Late afternoon offers the most dramatic lighting for photography
- Special Events: Winter cultural festivals in AlUla often include guided night experiences such as “Hegra After Dark”
Tickets Information for Hegra
- Standard guided tour tickets required (self-exploration is not permitted)
- Adult tickets typically start from approximately SAR 95–150 depending on experience type
- Premium experiences (sunset tours, heritage tours, night visits) cost more
- Children under certain ages may receive discounted rates
- Booking required in advance via the official Experience AlUla platform
- No specific height or weight requirements; site is accessible for most age groups
Opening Hours for Hegra
- Generally open daily
- Morning tours: Around 9:00 AM onward
- Last entry typically mid-to-late afternoon (varies seasonally)
- Sunset and evening tours available during peak season
- Advance booking strongly recommended, especially in winter
- Visitors must join scheduled guided tour slots
Things to See / Key Attractions Near Hegra
- Qasr Al-Farid: The “Lonely Castle,” a single monumental tomb standing dramatically alone in the desert
- Diwan & Jabal Ithlib: A narrow rock passage once used for Nabataean rituals
- Ancient Inscriptions: Carved messages and names etched into stone walls
- Desert Silence: The sensory experience of wind moving across open sand plains
- Hidden Perspectives: Walking slightly away from main groups offers striking photo angles of isolated tomb facades
Exclusive to Hegra is the rare opportunity to walk through a fully preserved Nabataean necropolis within Saudi Arabia.
Visitor Tips for Hegra
- Wear lightweight, modest clothing and comfortable walking shoes
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and water — shade is limited
- Suitable for seniors and families, though some walking is required
- Wheelchair accessibility available in certain areas (check in advance)
- Plan for 2–3 hours depending on tour type
- Book early morning tours for fewer crowds and softer light
- Photography enthusiasts should aim for late afternoon
How to Reach Hegra
- Nearest airport: AlUla International Airport (approx. 25–30 minutes by car)
- About 20 km north of AlUla town center
- Taxi and private transfers available from AlUla hotels
- Rental cars recommended for flexibility
- Ample designated parking at visitor reception center
- Approximately 4–5 hours by road from Medina
Nearby Attractions & Where to Eat
Nearby Attractions:
- Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil) — Natural sandstone formation ideal for sunset
- AlUla Old Town — Mudbrick heritage village with artisan shops
- Maraya — The mirrored concert hall blending modern architecture with desert landscape
Where to Eat:
- Suhail Restaurant — Contemporary Saudi cuisine with desert views
- Tawlat Fayza — Farm-to-table dining inspired by local traditions
Address
Hegra, Medina province, Hejaz, Saudi Arabia
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