Latest news with #AlUla
Arab News
a day ago
- Arab News
Mount Al-Fahlatain — where prophetic history meets pilgrimage tradition
AlUla: Rising from the landscape north of Madinah, Mount Al-Fahlatain has served as a geographical beacon and spiritual waypoint for more than a thousand years. The landmark, on the historic route to AlUla, bears witness to one of Islam's most significant military expeditions — the Prophet Muhammad's journey to Tabuk in 9 A.H. The mountain's name tells its own story. Two colossal rocks crown its summit, their silhouette resembling the horns of a bull — 'fahl' in Arabic, giving rise to 'Al-Fahlatain,' or 'the two bulls.' The sacred site has been documented meticulously by historians and travelers. Ali Al-Samhudi's work, 'Wafa Al-Wafa Bi Akhbar Dar Al-Mustafa,' places the location precisely one day's march from Madinah, describing twin peaks sheltering underlying rock formations. Firuzabadi reinforced its historical significance in 'Al-Maghanim Al-Mutaba fi Ma'alim Taba,' cataloging it among the landmarks witnessed by the Prophet's army on their way to Tabuk. Mohammed Ibn Abdullah Al-Mawlawi provided additional detail in 'Rihlat Al-Shita Wa Al-Sayf,' positioning the twin peaks on the mountain's western flank alongside the main thoroughfare. Al-Suwaidi offered an alternative etymology in 'Al-Nafha Al-Miskiyya Fi Al-Rihla Al-Makkiyya,' suggesting the name reflects the mountain's solitary stance in the landscape, isolated like a bull among grazing camels. Historian and Islamic history researcher Fouad Al-Maghamsi identifies Mount Al-Fahlatain — sometimes called Faifa Al-Fahlatain — as strategically positioned near Shajwa village, northwest of Madinah. With an elevation of 1,084 meters, the mountain commands sweeping views across the surrounding plains, bordered by complementary ridges and highlands. Al-Maghamsi said the site functioned as a vital rest station along the Syrian Hajj route, known as Darb Al-Hajj Al-Shami, earning local appellations including 'Antar's Fortress' and 'Antar's Stable.' Archaeological evidence such as building foundations and service facilities suggests a sophisticated infrastructure designed to support the thousands of pilgrims and merchants who annually traversed these routes. The Syrian Hajj route encompasses diverse terrain rich with sites linked to prophetic biography and pilgrimage heritage.
Arab News
3 days ago
- Business
- Arab News
Ancient Saudi city of Qurh a historic stop for pilgrim and trade caravans
ALULA: Qurh, an ancient city in Saudi Arabia's AlUla governorate, is one of the most prominent historical caravan stops, having served for centuries as a vital hub along the routes of pilgrims and traders, according to the Saudi Press Agency. Located about 20 kilometers south of AlUla's old town, near the village of Mughayra, Qurh is one of the Royal Commission for AlUla's archaeological sites. AlUla's other main heritage sites are Dadan, Hegra and the Old Town. Qurh's ruins spread across an expansive plain surrounded by medium-height mountains. The ruins include remnants of architectural structures, marketplaces, streets, and palaces, all of which highlight the city's once-thriving economic and urban life. Architectural features dating back to the early Islamic periods also suggest that settlement and cultural growth continued after the advent of Islam. Known for its commercial activity since pre-Islamic times, Qurh was the capital of Wadi Al-Qura and a center for Arab markets, as described by the historian Hisham ibn al-Kalbi, who identified it as a commercial and cultural center and a cradle of the arts. The city was located on the route of the historic Incense Road, a trade artery used to transport precious goods from the southern Arabian Peninsula to the north, passing through Wadi Al-Qura. According to Abdulrahman Alsuhaibani, the RCA's vice president for culture, the excavations in Qurh have so far proved "that there was some interaction with China at the beginning of the Islamic period." "Evidence exists of interactions and trade extending as far as China. With the China, for example, merchants who brought porcelain, medicines and silk to Arabia with incense for sure, ivory, while other valuables travelled in the opposite directions," he said in an interview produced by FT Longitude in partnership with The Royal Commission for AlUla. AlUla, at present part of Saudi Arabia's western province of Madinah, has been home throughout history to the ancient Dadanites, Lihyanites, Nabataeans, Sabaeans, Minoans, Egyptian, Romans and Arabs.
ArabGT
3 days ago
- Automotive
- ArabGT
Autonomous Vehicle Trials Begin in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has officially begun pilot trials for self-driving vehicle technology, paving the way for the launch of Robotaxi services before the end of 2025. This initiative is part of a strategic collaboration between global autonomous driving leader WeRide, ride-hailing platform Uber, the General Department of Traffic, and several government authorities. The trials feature Level-4 autonomous vehicles, including Robotaxis and Robobuses, and are currently taking place in major cities like Riyadh and AlUla. These tests are being conducted in key locations across the Kingdom, such as King Fahad Medical City, Aramco residential communities, and luxury destinations like the Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh, showcasing the flexibility and potential of this cutting-edge technology. Robobuses are designed to address last-mile transport challenges, seamlessly linking passengers with major transit networks like the Riyadh Metro. Built to withstand the region's intense heat, they are well-suited for public parks, luxury hotels, and tourist attractions. Among other smart mobility solutions is the deployment of the Robosweeper S1 at King Fahad Medical City — the Middle East's first monetized autonomous sanitation service. This system operates in a complex, high-traffic zone comprising hospitals, residential units, and commercial areas, offering efficient and intelligent cleaning solutions. This transformation aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which aims to create a smart, sustainable transport infrastructure that improves road safety, optimizes traffic management, and introduces innovative mobility technologies. Expansion to other cities is expected following the initial rollout. WeRide also brings regional experience to the table. The company recently launched fully autonomous Robotaxi trials in Abu Dhabi, where ArabGT's team had the opportunity to experience the vehicles firsthand — a testament to the technology's readiness and practicality for real-world deployment. The announcement has already made waves in the market, with WeRide's shares soaring over 20% in just 24 hours following the news of its Saudi expansion, reflecting investor confidence in the Kingdom's capability to adopt and scale futuristic transport solutions. This initiative marks a turning point in Saudi Arabia's digital transformation journey, setting a new benchmark for intelligent mobility that benefits residents, tourists, and the wider region alike.
Daily Mail
5 days ago
- Daily Mail
Is Saudi the new Dubai? Here's everything you need to know about holidaying in Saudi Arabia
It's being dubbed the 'new Dubai' - with tourist numbers soaring as glitzy international hotel chains doors and airlines clamber to launch new routes. Curious holidaymakers are flocking to Saudi Arabia 's magnificent ancient sites including the desert ruins of a Nabatean kingdom in AlUla and centuries-old tombs of Madai Saleh. Other big draws are upmarket hotels at Red Sea resorts - said to rival those in the Maldives - as well as the bustling souks and cultural attractions of Jeddah and Riyadh, the capital. New Virgin Atlantic flights from Heathrow to Riyadh began just over a month ago - joining BA and Saudia on the route. Meanwhile, you can book a room at the likes of Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons, Intercontinental. St Regis and Shangri-La, which have opened swanky new places to stay. All in all, it's remarkable progress for a country that was closed to holidaymakers until as recently as 2019, when a shift in approach began under Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman. His aim was to diversify the economy to bring in tourism and not just rely on oil revenue. Events have moved fast ever since, with Formula One beginning in Jeddah in 2021 and sports tourism taking off on the back of major boxing fights including high profile showdowns between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk. Latest figures show that 30 million inbound visitors came in 2024, up from 16.4 million in 2022 - with a target of 70 million by 2030. But what's it really like as a tourist in Saudi Arabia, the Middle East's largest country? Can you get a drink? What should women wear? And how can you arrange a trip? Here's our ultimate holiday guide to Saudi Arabia... What's it like for women to visit? First of all, the country is safe as there's little crime due to strict laws - so getting about by taxi is fine. However, women need to cover bodies - in big cities there is a more relaxed attitude regarding this, but in rural areas an abaya (loose garment covering the body) and scarf is advisable. The general advice from expats living in Saudi Arabia is for foreign women in rural regions to try and 'fit in'. Head coverings are no longer compulsory, women are expected to cover their shoulders, arms and legs and not wear tight clothing. What about women sunbathing by the pool? This is possible at some hotels - though you may be asked to cover up after a swim. What about male dress? Overall 'modesty' in dress is recommended for both men and women. Men, however, sometimes wear knee-length shorts (above the knee is not considered acceptable, except poolside). The rules for male clothing are much more relaxed. Is the country safe for LGBT travellers? Homosexuality is illegal, although unmarried (straight or gay) couples can stay in the same hotel room together (since 2019). Saudi Tourism says: 'Like other governments, we do not ask visitors personal questions and we respect the right to privacy.' And the national travel authority says: 'Everyone is welcome to visit Saudi, and we ask that they follow and respect our culture and traditions and laws, as you would when visiting any other country in the world.' All of this said, gay sex is prohibited by law, with the possibility of fines, prison and even death. Are public displays of affection (PDA) allowed? Holding hands is ok but kissing among all couples is culturally frowned upon and PDA in general should be avoided. Can you get a drink? Alcohol is illegal and there are no exceptions - unlike in nearby Muslim countries such as the UAE (in Dubai and Abu Dhabi) and Qatar. City bars may stock non-alcoholic wines, spirits and beers. You cannot even get a drink if flying in on Saudia, the country's national airline. This week, reports suggested the kingdom would allow the controlled sale of alcohol in the run-up to hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup - lifting its 73-year-old ban on alcohol. However, a Saudi official has since denied any changes to its alcohol laws will be made. Can you drink on the way in and out on other airlines? Yes. The in-flight booze ban is just on Saudia. However, do not arrive drunk as this could lead to arrest if you behave in a disorderly or offensive manner. What's the temperature like? It can top 50C in the summer, when some businesses will close at midday and reopen again later - commonplace in Jeddah's historic al-Balad neighborhood. Malls, however, are air-conditioned, though you may ironically need to take a jumper. January is the coolest month, with temperatures around 18-20C. What's the food like? Delicious. Try smoky baba ghanoush (finely chopped eggplant), hummous, falafel, 'kabsa' (a spicy rice dish with chicken, lamb or goat), sliced pieces of chicken or beef in 'sharwarmas' served with pitta bread, and sweet pistachio-flavoured bread pudding. Tasty soft drink included pomegranate juice, cardamom coffee and camel milkshakes. How about shopping? Souks are a big part of the culture - you can pick up rose-oil perfumes, gold jewellery and beautiful women's clothing. Can you visit mosques? It is ok for non-Muslims to visit mosques but you should cover up and women should cover their hair to be respectful. Pack some socks as you need to remove shoes on entry. Try to avoid Fridays, the holiest day of the week. Some mosques in Mecca and Medina are restricted to Muslims. Can you meet locals? Yes - the people are friendly, hospitable and keen to share their culture. How do you get there? Virgin Atlantic's new direct flights from Heathrow to Riyadh are from £508 in June ( Return flights on BA are from £519 in June ( Or you could fly indirect on Pegasus from Stansted via Istanbul from as little as £257 return ( How long is the journey? Direct flights to Riyadh from the UK are usually around 6h 30m and seven hours. Will I need a visa? Yes. Apply for a tourist e-visa in advance at - the fee is £105. Processing e-visas takes 24 hours; the fee covers mandatory health insurance. What tour operators offer trips? Trailfinders offers 14-night trips in conjunction with adventure specialists Explore from £4,699 per person. Trips include visits to Riyadh, a desert camp near the dramatic canyons at AlUla, the ancient Nabatean city of Hegra, a visit to the Holy city of Medina, the Red Sea port of Yambu and Jeddah; hotels, many meals and guides included, with flights extra ( Meanwhile, upmarket specialist Abercrombie & Kent has luxury trips with stays at the four seasons in Riyadh, the Banyan Tree at Alula and the Shangri-La in Jeddah from £14,975pp for eight days, flights included ( Or you can book tailor-made trips with BA Holidays ( Wild Frontiers ( and Wendy Wu Tours ( What currency should I use? The Saudi riyal (SAR), although cards are widely accepted.
Arab News
6 days ago
- Arab News
AlUla's rawi historians tell tales as old as time
JEDDAH: In the timeless landscape of AlUla, stories are not only carved or marked into rock — they are carried in the hearts and voices of its people. Among those preserving and sharing memories is Aljawharah Ibrahim Abdulkarim, a rawi — or oral storyteller — in the heritage, culture and events department at the Royal Commission for AlUla. She told Arab News: 'Several years ago I took a number of tour guiding courses and decided to pursue a career in this field. I was born and raised in AlUla, so I grew up hearing stories and learning about AlUla Old Town from my parents and relatives who lived there, which allowed me to better understand the history of the site.' Storytelling for Abdulkarim is not just a job, but a mission. As a native of AlUla, she offers a rare blend of authenticity and academic insight, which she weaves into the tours she leads. She added: 'Since I've lived in AlUla my entire life, I've witnessed its amazing transformation over the years. Through my work as a rawi I've also seen firsthand the exciting future that lies ahead for this unique place. All of these experiences have helped enrich my personal story of AlUla.' The rawi has historically played an important role in Arab culture, serving as a reciter of poetry and stories. A trilingual speaker — fluent in her native Arabic, as well as in English and French — Abdulkarim represents the next generation of rawis that will show, and tell, the tales of their ancestors. She said: 'I first started learning English in AlUla. Later, I had the opportunity to travel to France on an RCU scholarship created especially for AlUla students. While there I learned French and obtained my master's degree in international hospitality management.' Her ability to connect with international visitors became a key asset, and she added: 'The fact that I am a trilingual rawi helps me to better understand the different tourists that come to AlUla, offer more personalized responses to their questions, and share with them the special story of AlUla. 'I've also had the chance to represent AlUla and my colleagues across several conferences and campaigns in the Kingdom and globally, connecting me with an even broader audience.' While much research has been devoted to ancient sites like Dadan and Hegra, Abdulkarim is passionate about shedding light on AlUla — especially the human stories of AlUla's Old Town. She said: 'There is a lot of available historical information and research for different ancient civilizations, especially for sites in Dadan and Hegra. However, when it comes to places like AlUla Old Town, it is quite different as we are talking about contemporary history.' What sets her storytelling apart is her commitment to blending historical accuracy with personal memory — without conflating the two. She said: 'The people who once lived there are still with us today, and they're able to share their stories in their own words. 'During my tours I usually start by sharing historical facts, and then I include memories from my father and family. I make sure to keep the two separate, so the history and personal stories are both respected and clearly understood.' Beyond those narratives, Abdulkarim regularly invites other community members to lend their voices to the tours. She added: 'During our tours we also invite members of the local community to participate by sharing their stories and knowledge, helping us to tell the broader history of AlUla, through the voices of those who have lived it.' These efforts are especially resonant during themed tours in which the history is deeply personal. She added: 'For example, during one of our special tours in Ramadan, called Ramadan Memories, my father contributed by sharing how the people of Old Town used to spend the holy month, recounting their daily routines, the food they prepared, their work, and their cherished traditions. In doing so, we offer our valued guests a truly unique and personal experience.' Preserving and presenting heritage in such moments is more than recounting stories — it is about keeping the very culture and voice alive for future generations. She said: 'Sharing our heritage with people is crucial to prevent it from being lost, especially as elements of heritage can also be intangible. 'AlUla is a jewel to us, and persevering the heritage of the city not only helps to protect our past but also safeguards our present and shapes our future.' That future is being actively protected, and she added: 'Today, for example, we have the first Saudi Heritage Ranger team that are working hard to protect our tangible heritage in our historical and archaeological sites for the coming generations.' In AlUla, the past is not forgotten: It is spoken, heard and passed down with pride. Through voices like Abdulkarim's, these stories — some as old as time — are finding new ears.
