These are the Best Addresses in Al-Ula
The spectacular oasis in the Saudi Arabian desert scores with unique sights, fantastic landscapes - as well as first-class hotels and restaurants.
December 15, 2023
Where to Stay
Banyan Tree AlUla
© 2020 Ales Vyslouzil/Ales Photography FZ LLE
A truly magical retreat in the middle of the desert, surrounded by natural rock formations and ideal for stargazing at night: The sustainable luxury glamping complex of the Banyan Tree AlUla consists of 47 elegant tented villas, which are stylishly furnished in a minimalist style. The rock pool is also impressive, where you can swim between the rocks with a magnificent view.
Banyan Tree AlUla
Wadi Ashar, Al-Ula 43563, Saudi Arabia
Tel: +966 14 512 0000
Web: banyantree.com
Price: Villas from € 525
Habitas AlUla
© provided
Probably the hippest luxury hotel in the area: The picturesque pool and iconic trampolines are a popular photo motif. You stay in stylish villas that guarantee plenty of privacy, while Arabic delicacies are served in the Tama restaurant overlooking the pool. The sunrise, which is magical in the desert, can be celebrated with yoga classes.
Habitas Alula
QV65+RMF 43570, Saudi Arabia
Tel: +966 14 821 3900
Web: ourhabitas.com
Price: Villas from € 420
The Chedi Hegra
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This luxury hotel with 35 bespoke rooms is due to open in December and is located in the immediate vicinity of the Hegra archaeological site. It'll incorporate a historic railroad station building, preserving traditional adobe constructions and fusing them with modern architecture. The property will have three gourmet restaurants and a pool.
Web: ghmhotels.com
Shaden Resort
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This resort is surrounded by bizarre natural sandstone formations and boasts spacious villas; the rocks take on a particularly dramatic color at sunset. The resort is quiet and centrally located, making it easy to explore all the sights. There's also a pool and two restaurants. The extensive grounds are a popular running track.
Shaden Resort AlUla
MX66+VWW, Hail العلا Road, Saudi Arabia
Tel: +966 50 604 3344
Web: shadenresort.sa
Price: Doubles from € 659
Where to Eat
Somewhere
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The coolest restaurant in Al-Ula, it could just as easily be located in Los Angeles; even the Saudi crown prince likes to dine here. Minimalist design meets a green oasis - the best thing is to sit outside and enjoy the balmy summer nights.
Somewhere Al Ula
Al-Ula 43523, Saudi Arabia
Tel.+966 9200 24788
Web: instagram.com/somewhere
Maraya Social
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Social fine dining with Michelin chef Jason Atherton - the elegant restaurant is located on the roof of the Maraya concert hall, which is a must-see architectural feature. The view is fantastic and the best local produce from the region is used here.
Maraya Social
Al-Ula 43552, Saudi Arabia
Tel: +966 5500 59161
Web: marayasocial.com
Okto
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Not just a stylish place to enjoy good food and cool drinks: The Okto is located on the Harrat viewpoint, from where you have a panoramic view of the city of Al-Ula and the desert landscape. In the evening, it's also a popular meeting place for locals, with DJs playing regularly.
Okto x AlUla
King Abdulaziz Park, Al-Ula 43562, Saudi Arabia
Tel: +966 54 443417
Web: okto-sa.com
This article appeared in the Falstaff TRAVEL issue Fall 2023.
