From a UNESCO World Heritage Site to canyon-side wellness and communal dining rooted in local produce, AlUla makes a compelling case for a long weekend away.
With Eid Al Adha on the horizon, Our Habitas AlUla is worth serious consideration for those looking to make the most of the break. Set within the sandstone landscape of Ashar Valley in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, the resort sits a short flight from the UAE and is offering Family Escape stays from SAR 1,800 (approximately AED 1,760) per night, inclusive of breakfast.
The package is built around shared experiences across the stay, including a family lunch, an interactive cooking class, and guided hiking and biking through the valley. Daily programming spans cinema under the stars, yoga and sound healing, and younger guests receive complimentary ice cream throughout. Each stay also includes a Polaroid camera with film, a small but considered touch that sets the tone for the whole experience.
Beyond the package itself, here are six reasons the destination is worth the trip.
The landscape. Our Habitas AlUla sits within Ashar Valley, its villas blending into the canyon walls with private outdoor decks, king-sized beds and both indoor and outdoor showers. Cooler valley evenings offer a welcome contrast to the warmth of the days.
The history. AlUla has been home to human civilisation for more than 200,000 years. Ancient tombs, inscriptions and archaeological sites across the valley tell the stories of cultures that once flourished along historic trade routes, earning it a reputation as a living museum.
The wellness. Thuraya Wellness, named after a star constellation used by Bedouins to navigate, sits at the heart of the resort. The programme moves beyond standard treatments to include yoga, sound healing and rituals drawn from local traditions, all set within an outdoor wellness agora designed around the stillness of the desert.
The dining. Tama, the resort’s restaurant, draws on regional flavours and locally sourced produce from nearby farms. Communal, family-style gatherings are a signature of the experience, creating space for connection around the table.
The heritage. A short journey from Ashar Valley lies Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by the Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago, its monumental tombs carved directly into sandstone cliffs are among the most remarkable archaeological sites in the Middle East.
The culture. AlUla has undergone a significant cultural transformation in recent years, with large-scale art installations, immersive exhibitions and international festivals now taking place against the desert backdrop. Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored structure, sits at the centre of this, combining architecture, dining and live programming in a single destination.
Discover: Six reasons to visit Our Habitas AlUla this Eid. [email protected] or call +966 14 821 3900. @habitasalula
