AlUla’s 2026/27 Calendar Blends Culture, Sport And Skies

An ancient oasis city set deep within Saudi Arabia’s north-western landscapes, AlUla is defined by honey-coloured rock formations, sandstone cliffs and wide-open skies that move from gold to violet at dusk.

Home to more than 100 archaeological sites spanning 200,000 years of human history, AlUla’s landscapes remain carefully preserved, while a steady year-round calendar of events, festivals and cultural programming continues to unfold across the destination.

Today, AlUla is positioned as one of Saudi Arabia’s most dynamic destinations, where travellers can explore heritage, creativity and contemporary storytelling in real time. At its centre is AlUla Moments, a calendar of curated festivals and experiences shaped by the heritage, people and spirit of the place.

For travellers planning ahead, these are some of the key highlights of the 2026/27 season.

AlUla Wellness Festival

23 to 31 October 2026

For those looking for escape, space and quiet, few destinations offer the same sense of removal as AlUla. The AlUla Wellness Festival brings together movement, mindfulness and immersive experiences across one of the world’s most naturally restorative desert landscapes.

AlUla Skies Festival

6 to 15 November 2026

During the AlUla Skies Festival, hot-air balloons drift above the canyon landscape by day, while after dark the destination’s clear skies provide the setting for stargazing. The programme is shaped around AlUla’s dramatic terrain and its relationship with the night sky.

Ancient Kingdoms Festival

26 November to 12 December 2026

Long before the modern world took shape, AlUla was a crossroads of civilisations. Home to the rise of Dadan and Lihyan, and to the enduring legacy of the Nabataeans, the Ancient Kingdoms Festival brings those histories into focus through trails, lantern-lit encounters, rock inscriptions and cultural performances.

Winter at Tantora

17 December 2026 to 9 January 2027

Winter at Tantora brings music, art, culture and culinary experiences to AlUla against the backdrop of Hegra and the destination’s winter skies. The season is shaped by cooler weather, clear light and a programme that places contemporary experiences within a historic setting.

AlUla Arts Festival

15 January to 6 February 2027

The AlUla Arts Festival brings contemporary exhibitions, street art and live performance into a destination where ancient and modern culture sit in close proximity. Each year, the festival transforms AlUla Oasis, AlJadidah Arts District and other locations into spaces for creativity and cultural exchange, connecting heritage, local voices and international names.

Previous editions and associated programmes have featured international artists including Agnes Denes, Maria Magdalena Campos-Pons, Alicja Kwade and Claudia Comte, alongside works by Pablo Picasso, David Hockney, Joan Mitchell and Wassily Kandinsky. Artists including Michael Heizer, James Turrell, Jim Denevan and Renaud Auguste-Dormeuil are also set to contribute permanent installations at Wadi AlFann.

AlUla Trail Race

22 to 23 January 2027

For runners, the AlUla Trail Race brings an endurance-focused weekend to the canyon landscape, welcoming both elite competitors and community participants. The route is designed to be as visually striking as it is demanding, with every kilometre shaped by the surrounding terrain.

Travellers can follow the AlUla Moments calendar for event details, ticket releases and booking information.

Travel And Visa Access

For international travellers, Saudi Arabia has continued to develop its visa access. The Saudi eVisa programme now includes 66 countries and special administrative regions, alongside the GCC residents visa and free 96-hour Stopover Visa. UK, US and Schengen visa holders, as well as residents of the UK, US and European Union countries, are eligible for the instant eVisa.

Scheduled direct non-stop services operate from London Heathrow and Gatwick to Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport. AlUla is accessible via its international airport, which welcomes flights from major cities, while road access to AlUla is also available for travellers who prefer a scenic drive. Visit Saudi also operates a 24/7 tourist helpline on 930 for travellers who require assistance or have concerns during their visit.

Travellers can plan their trip through the Visit Saudi website.

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