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Hegra is the first site in Saudi Arabia to be inscribed on the World Heritage List. It is located in AlUla, Medina Governorate, Saudi Arabia. It is the sister city of Petra in Jordan to the south and was built by the Nabataeans in the middle of the first century BC.
The landmark site of Hegra is its well-preserved tomb complex, with its intricate carvings on its sandstone facades, showcasing the Nabataeans' remarkable architectural prowess. The area boasts over 130 tombs and several significant archaeological sites, the largest of which is the Tomb of Lihayani, son of Khuza, standing approximately 72 feet tall and known locally as the "Lonely Castle."
Hegra also boasts attractions such as the Hejaz Railway, a 1,300-kilometer-long railway constructed during the Ottoman Empire. Before the railway's construction, pilgrims traveling the Syrian Hajj route faced a forty-day trek through treacherous terrain. Other risks, such as disease and inclement weather, led to a high mortality rate. By August 1908, the Hejaz Railway had completed its journey from Damascus to Medina and remained in commercial use for six years. Following the outbreak of World War I, the railway became a target of attack and never recovered from the devastation of the war, falling into complete abandonment in the 1920s. Today, the restored Hejaz Railway has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage "Tentative List."
Due to the hot climate and high summer temperatures in the AlUla region, the best time to visit is usually during the winter months, from November to March. This period is cooler and ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the ancient sites.
【Recommended attractions】
→Hegra Necropolis
This is one of the most famous attractions in Hegra, with many well-preserved ancient tombs where you can appreciate the unique architecture and sculpture art of the Nabataeans.
→ Hejaz Railway
The railway, built during the Ottoman Empire, is of great historical significance. Visitors can stroll along the railway and experience its former glory.
→Tateishiyama
The red sandstone rocks of various shapes provide an excellent background for taking photos.
【Recommended Play Time】
About 2 hours
The reference price is about 95SAR. For details, please visit the official website of winter park.
09:00-17:00 all year round
Hegra (Madain Salih) is Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, once a thriving city of the Nabatean Kingdom in the 1st century BCE–1st century CE. It served as a major caravan stop along the incense trade route, renowned for its monumental tombs carved into sandstone cliffs.
Located in Al-Ula Governorate, northwestern Saudi Arabia. Accessible by car or taxi from Al-Ula city (approximately 25 km). There is no metro; guided tours or private transport are recommended.
Open daily, generally from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Best times to visit are October–April when the weather is cooler.
Entrance requires a ticket purchased through the Royal Commission for Al-Ula website or at the visitor center. Prices vary depending on guided tours or package inclusions.
Yes, it is recommended to book tickets online at least a few days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
2–4 hours for a basic visit; a full day if including guided tours and photography sessions.
Guided tours are available in English and Arabic. Some tours include additional languages upon request.
Start at the visitor center, proceed to Qasr al-Farid, explore nearby tombs and inscriptions, and finish with panoramic viewpoints for photography.
Special night events and cultural performances are occasionally offered through the Royal Commission for Al-Ula. Check their website for schedule updates.
It can be busy during weekends and peak tourist seasons; weekdays and early mornings are least crowded.
Moderately accessible; paths are sandy and uneven in parts. Elderly and disabled visitors may need assistance for certain areas.
Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted at the visitor center; small vendors may prefer cash (SAR).
Limited dining options inside the site; nearby Al-Ula city offers cafes, traditional Saudi restaurants, and modern dining.
Yes, halal food is standard. Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Al-Ula city restaurants.
Souvenir shops at the visitor center sell local crafts, postcards, jewelry, and artifacts replicas.
Private car, taxi, or organized tour shuttle to other Al-Ula attractions; nearest airport is Prince Abdul Majeed bin Abdulaziz Airport (Al-Ula).