Tag Archives: Al Ula

Qatar Airways announced the success of its inaugural journey to AlUla, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, marking the airline’s commitment to providing unparalleled travel experiences across over 170 destinations worldwide. Operating two weekly flights to AlUla, Qatar Airways brings the total number destinations to Saudi Arabia to 10, including 125 weekly flights across AlUla, Dammam, Gassim, Jeddah, Medina, NEOM, Riyadh, Tabuk, Taif, and Yanbu. The meticulously curated trip showcased AlUla as a new and exciting destination, offering travellers a unique blend of history, culture, and luxury. The VIP delegation included His Excellency Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani, Minister of Culture of the State of Qatar who attended the inaugural flight, His Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al-Saud, Minister of Culture of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Acting Chief Executive Officer Royal Commission for AlUla, Abeer Al Akel, and Phillip Jones Chief Tourism Officer, Royal Commission for AlUla. The VIP delegation started the itinerary with a visit to the heart of the city’s Old Town. The tour showcased the revitalised Old Town, a historical gem with ancient traditional architecture revamped with a modern touch. The journey continued with an exploration of various sites, highlighting a synergy of modernity and history, notably a visit to the sustainable and biodiverse district, Oasis, as well as to multiple publishing houses, providing a deeper understanding of the local culture and its affinity to literature. The pinnacle of the trip was the significant visit to the Kingdom’s first UNESCO Heritage Site, Hegra, where His Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al-Saud, Minister of Culture of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, received …

AlUla Development Company signed a hotel management agreement with Six Senses, to open Six Senses AlUla in Saudi Arabia in 2027. The agreement was signed by Fabien Toscano, Chief Executive Officer of AlUla Development Company, and Neil Jacobs, Chief Executive Officer of Six Senses, and in the presence of AlUla Development Company Managing Director Naif AlHamdan during a ceremony at Maraya – Guinness World Record holder of being the world’s largest mirrored building – located in AlUla. Luxury hotel Six Senses AlUla will span across 1,200,000 square meters and will be built within a breathtaking natural oasis adorned with lush palm groves, embraced by dramatic red-sandstone cliffs. It will feature 100 guest villas and 25 residences, which will be designed to seamlessly integrate with AlUla’s breathtaking natural landscape. Naif AlHamdan, Managing Director of AlUla Development Company commented that the agreement represents the company’s commitment to increase luxury hospitality offerings in one of the most ancient archaeological sites, adding: “We are working to enrich the hospitality offerings and experiences in AlUla so that we can enable visitors to explore its rich history amidst its natural picturesque setting.” Fabien Toscano, Chief Executive Officer of AlUla Development Company, commented on the partnership, “We are excited to join hands with Six Senses to open a one-of-a-kind luxury hotel in AlUla. The venture aligns with our commitment to elevating the hospitality offering in AlUla and marks another significant stride in our pursuit of sustainable development, contributing to the economic diversification and transformation of Saudi Arabia in line with Vision 2030.” Neil Jacobs, Chief Executive Officer of Six Senses, commented on the venture, saying, “Bringing to life the drama and beauty of a site with unprecedented …

Qatar Airways announces its expansion in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with the launch of services of two new gateways: Al Ula, Tabuk and the reopening of Yanbu. Effective 29 October 2023, Qatar Airways will commence operations to AlUla, followed by Yanbu on 06 December 2023, and Tabuk on 14 December 2023. These new routes will offer passengers even more options to explore the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of Saudi Arabia. These additions to the airline’s rapidly growing network mark a significant milestone in Qatar Airways’ commitment to connecting travellers across the globe. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “We are thrilled to introduce AlUla, Yanbu, and Tabuk as our newest destinations in Saudi Arabia. These cities offer a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural experiences, and we are proud to connect travellers from around the world to these remarkable places.” Al Ula, known for its breath-taking landscapes and historical treasures, will be serviced with two weekly flights. Travelers can look forward to experiencing this UNESCO World Heritage Site’s wonders, including the ancient rock formations and archaeological marvels. Yanbu, a vibrant port city, will be connected with three weekly flights. With its beautiful beaches and diverse marine life, Yanbu is the perfect destination for those seeking sun, sea and adventure. Tabuk, nestled amidst stunning mountains and valleys, will see Qatar Airways operate three weekly flights. Travelers to Tabuk will have the opportunity to explore its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Qatar Airways now operates to nine cities in Saudi Arabia, operating more than 125 flights weekly. These cities include AlUla, Dammam, Gassim, Jeddah, Medina, Riyadh, Tabuk, Taif, and Yanbu, providing travellers …

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) have signed a pioneering agreement that opens a new chapter for cultural collaboration, chartering the course for a new phase in AlUla’s long history as a nexus for cultural exchange and development. The agreement was announced at the 45th UNESCO World Heritage Committee, chaired by Saudi Arabia in Riyadh this month. It launches Phase 2 of the five-year umbrella accord that RCU and UNESCO signed in November 2021 encompassing heritage conservation and interpretation, safeguarding intangible and tangible cultural heritage, engagement, capacity-building, and creative arts. Phase 2 of the partnership focuses on two main projects: an Integrated Cultural Programme for the development of AlUla, and the advancement of the UNESCO/Kingdoms Institute Fellowship Programme focusing on heritage and archaeology. The RCU-UNESCO Integrated Cultural Programme, which is the centrepiece of the new agreement, will over the next two years provide technical assistance and capacity building, support in the development of international networks, and enhance visibility and recognition of cultural heritage and creativity as a driver of AlUla’s sustainable development. It will also address the role heritage and creativity can play in building sustainable cities and regions, building social capital through a culture-engaged, people-centred development model for AlUla.  

AlUla Development Company (UDC), fully owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) signed an agreement with Marriott International to open an Autograph Collection property in Saudi Arabia. Expected to open in 2025, the hotel will be located in the heart of downtown AlUla. Spanning across 22,635 square meters, the Autograph Collection hotel will be situated in central AlUla, adjacent to the AlUla Museum and opposite the Farmer’s Market. Plans for the hotel include 250 rooms and suites, and extensive recreational and entertainment offerings including four dining venues, a spa, a swimming pool, a fitness center, a business center, meeting facilities and retail space. The agreement was signed by Naif AlHamdan, Managing Director of UDC, and Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Marriott International in the Saudi capital city of Riyadh. Naif AlHamdan, Managing Director of AlUla Development Company, commented on the agreement. “we are thrilled to partner with Marriott International to open an Autograph Collection hotel in AlUla. This collaboration aligns with our objective of enhancing the hospitality, tourism and real estate sectors in AlUla and ensuring an unforgettable experience for our visitors. AlUla Development Company is committed to building on AlUla’s extraordinary heritage, history and natural beauty through sustainable development and will contribute to the economic diversification and tourism goals of the Kingdom, in line with PIF’s strategy and Vision 2030 – and this is just another step in that direction.” “We are delighted to work with AlUla Development Company to bring Autograph Collection Hotels to an exciting destination for global travelers to discover in Saudi Arabia,” said Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Marriott International. “We look forward to building this relationship with UDC and continuing to …

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) entered a new, far-reaching and long-term strategic partnership with Red Sea Global (RSG) to develop and expand Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing tourism landscape and boost the Kingdom’s status as one of the world’s most in-demand locations for tourists and investors. Signed at a meeting between Amr AlMadani, the CEO of the Royal Commission for AlUla, and John Pagano, CEO of Red Sea Global, the Memorandum of Collaboration (MoC) agreement will act as a catalyst for the continued growth and expansion of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector, allowing each project to transfer knowledge, expertise, best practices, innovative ideas, and solutions as they drive ahead with their shared goal of meeting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 aspirations. As two of the world’s most ambitious tourism projects – located just 350 km apart – the ongoing regeneration of Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea region has many attributes in common with AlUla, each facing and overcoming a variety of unique challenges as they progress with comprehensive development strategies. The new partnership, which will function on a national and global scale, will fuel the growth of Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification allowing each destination to achieve its full potential while benefiting local communities and stakeholders alike. As the core developer of Saudi Arabia’s stunning Red Sea region, RSG is spearheading a new model of regeneration that is helping to reimagine the sustainable luxury tourism industry by merging the vast coastal area’s rich environmental biodiversity and cultural heritage with unrivalled amenities and hospitality services. Now established as a must-visit destination for holidaymakers seeking high-end accommodation and one-of-a-kind cultural experiences within an incredible natural landscape, AlUla is one of the world’s most diverse and immersive …

AlUla Moments announced the return of the much-anticipated AlUla Wellness Festival 2023, taking place from October 19th to November 04th. The two-weeks flagship festival is dedicated to promoting mind, body, and wellness and offers a diverse array of holistic workshops and activities inspired by AlUla’s rich historical and natural heritage. Featuring an extensive calendar of curated programs, this year’s edition will showcase a multitude of activities developed in collaboration with world-class industry leaders. The third edition of the AlUla Wellness Festival promises unparalleled holistic offerings, guiding participants and attendees towards physical, mental, and emotional balance and alignment. Boasting an extensive calendar of workshops, events, and engaging activations, this year’s festival assures an enriching experience through a journey of Wellness, Culture, Art, and Music. Commenting of the festival launch, Rami Al Mouallim, Vice President, Royal Commission of AlUla said: “Reflecting on the remarkable journey since the inception of the AlUla Wellness Festival grand opening in October 2020, we take immense pride in curating events that celebrate the beauty and essence of every season in AlUla. Today, AlUla stands as a refined and sophisticated destination, with an unrivaled blend of heritage, culture, arts, and adventure that captivates our visitors from all corners of the world.”

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) and the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) are excited to invite entries for the 6th edition of the Ithra Art Prize under a comprehensive partnership to promote and grow the arts and cultural industries across Saudi Arabia. The open call for the prize, which comes with a grant of $100,000, closes on September 30, 2023. The winning artwork will be unveiled during the AlUla Arts Festival in February 2024. One of the most significant grants in the region, the Ithra Art Prize at AlUla supports the partnership aim to empower the creative sector. This edition will focus on outdoor installation art and sculpture, and will be adjudicated by a committee of regional and international experts including representatives from Ithra and RCU. The Ithra Art Prize supports artists from and based in the Arab world to develop career-making work. The winner will receive $100,000, and Ithra will cover production costs up to $400,000. The winning piece will be unveiled and showcased at AlUla’s unique multi-arts festival championing art in all its forms, before joining Ithra’s permanent collection. The partnership boosts strategic talent and skills capabilities across the creative economy in line with Vision 2030, and connects Saudi’s western and eastern regions through art and culture. Fields for collaboration include film, training and education, corporate social responsibility, events and exhibitions, and research, including in digital awareness. It also delivers opportunities to build art-led skills development and experiences between the two communities. The agreement leverages Ithra’s expertise in offering curated courses, training programs and other cultural activities beyond the Centre’s campus and RCU’s efforts to build on AlUla’s rich legacy to place art and creativity …

Musafir.com has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Royal Commission of AlUla (RCU). The agreement, which aims to promote the destination to tourists from the UAE to AlUla between Melanie De Souza, Executive Director, Destination Marketing at RCU and Sachin Gadoya, CEO and Co-Founder of musafir.com. Speaking about AlUla and the partnership with RCU, Gadoya said, “AlUla, the World’s Masterpiece, is one of the oldest cities in the Arabian Peninsula with massive tourism potential. The fact that it received close to 185,000 visitors in 2022 speaks volumes about the level of interest among tourists to explore this unique destination and its UNESCO World Heritage site. With Musafir.com’s expertise in travel planning and the Royal Commission for AlUla’s commitment to preserving the region’s heritage, this partnership promises to offer visitors a truly authentic experience of Saudi Arabia’s fascinating history and culture.” Sachin added, “AlUla is ready to receive up to 250,000 visitors in 2023, the majority of which will come from neighbouring nations. As part of the agreement, musafir.com will promote holiday packages to AlUla with the objective of growing the profile of AlUla as a destination. Musafir.com will collaborate on various promotional and marketing initiatives to increase tourist arrivals.” Melanie De Souza, Executive Director, Destination Marketing at RCU, said, “AlUla is a truly unique destination, representing over 200,000 years of largely unexplored human history and 7000 years of continuous human civilisation. From Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site to the ancient oasis and AlUla Old Town, recently recognised by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) as one of the World’s Best Tourism Villages, to a vibrant arts and culture scene, world-class culinary experiences and a …

Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA), with the Royal Commission for AlUla and the French Agency for the Development of AlUla (AFALULA) has announced the resumption of a weekly direct flight between Paris CDG airport and AlUla international airport every Sunday from December 4, 2022 to March 12, 2023. The route will allow French travelers to reach AlUla in only 5 hours, with all the comfort provided by the Boeing 787 “Dreamliner”. Announced as part of AlUla’s participating in the World Travel Market, London this week, the route represents an incomparable opportunity for French travelers to immerse themselves in the desert city of AlUla, an ancient oasis located on the incense route with 7000 years of successive civilisations. AlUla is a unique site that was home to some of the most important civilisations of the region – the Dadanites, the Lihyanites, the Nabataeans, and the Romans. Among the must-see, UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra, the southern capital of the Nabatean Empire, are many other archaeological sites dating back to the first millennium BCE. Beyond its rich heritage, AlUla also offers stunning natural landscapes, ochre sandstone canyons and amazing rock formations, basaltic plateaus and golden sands, and a lush green oasis stretching for miles running through the city. French connections to AlUla are strong. The Dominican fathers and exploders Antonin Jaussen and Raphaël Savignac produced some of the earliest pictures of the region in 1909. Today teams of French archaeologists are working to uncover more AlUla’s mysteries. French artists and musicians have also left their marks in the region in recent years with exceptional concerts and performances or unique art projects. AFALULA was set up as an inter-governmental partnership to support the …