Though it might not be as well-known as other Middle Eastern destinations, the oasis city of AIUla is quite possibly Saudi Arabia’s hottest property. Located in the northwest desert, AIUla is the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This part of Saudi Arabia has so much to offer, from natural rock formations and 7,000-year-old tombs to modern art, vibrant festivals, and adrenaline activities. You can also stay in upmarket desert resorts, offering deluxe tented villas and outstanding facilities.
If you want to enjoy the ultimate in comfort and style while getting to AIUla, why not book a private jet charter to whisk you off to the exotic Arabian desert?
Your flight time to AIUla will depend on several factors, including where you’re departing from and the type of private aircraft:
- London to AIUla: approx. 9 hours 15 minutes
- Paris to AIUla: approx. 9 hours 15 minutes
- Palma to AIUla: approx. 11 hours
- Milan to AIUla: approx. 8 hours 50 minutes
- Zurich to AIUla: approx. 11 hours 25 minutes
- Berlin to AIUla: approx. 12 hours 40 minutes
Top Things to Do in AIUla
Visit Hegra
Head out into the desert - and you could even travel in style by vintage jeep - to visit Hegra. There’s more than 100 tomb facades you can see, dating from the Nabataean period between the 4th and 2nd centuries BC.
Look out for the Tomb of Lihyan while touring the sites. You can also discover the Diwan, an old meeting place hewn by man from sandstone, and the natural Siq passageway between two towering rocks.
Explore Jabal Ikmah
Visit the ultimate outdoor library by exploring Jabal Ikmah. The area is so called because of the fascinating inscriptions carved into the cliff surfaces here. There are over 450 from early Arabic times, plus thousands from pre-Arabic days.
The engravings tell the tales of the area’s past civilisations. A local storyteller - a rawi - can show you where to find the best examples, as well as explaining the significance of what you’re seeing.
AIUla Oasis
If you've ever dreamed of visiting an oasis in the desert, you cannot miss this. AIUla Oasis dates from before the times of the Arabian Dadanite Kingdom, which was prominent during the first millennium BC.
It’s possible to walk there from the old town, and after a two-hour trek, the Pink Camel cafe awaits for refreshing juices, coffee and pastries, or a light lunch. Pilgrims used to rest in the courtyards at the oasis, and you can spot local flora and fauna, particularly endemic birdlife.
Old Town and AIUla Castle
Follow the charming streets of AlUla Old Town to discover this characterful area, where you’ll find cafes, restaurants, food carts, huge murals and simple old homes. The Old Town adjoins the ‘new town,’ or AlJadidah area.
Head to the centre of AIUla old town to ascend the steps of the castle, and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the old town. The buildings here were constructed from mud bricks.
Sharaan Nature Reserve
If AIUla Oasis doesn’t give you quite enough of a nature fix, you can visit the valleys, canyons, open desert, and rocky terrain of Sharaan Nature Reserve. The 1,500 square kilometre reserve is home to Arabian wolves, large-eared red foxes, and gazelles.
A programme is also currently underway with the aim of reintroducing the critically endangered Arabian leopard. You might also spot feathered fauna such as bee-eaters, red-necked ostriches, or eagles.
Helicopter flights
See AIUla from the skies by taking a helicopter flight over the area. It’s the best way to appreciate how vast the valley and desert really are. You can also view both ancient archaeological sites and natural rock formations from the air.
Where to Stay in AIUla
Service is second-to-none at The Chedi Hegra. Its proximity to Hegra archaeological site is reflected in the name, and the property provides a wealth of amenities including free bike hire, a concierge service, and a tour desk. Accommodation is in rooms, suites, or villas, all with stunning views of the surrounding sandstone rocks. The Chedi Hegra has a spa, an outdoor pool, a gym, and a restaurant.
Or book into Our Habitas AlUla which also offers the ultimate in style, space, service, and facilities. You can choose between Alcove, Canyon, and Celestial Villas, all of which comprise impeccable accommodation. The resort enjoys a spectacular setting among sandstone rock formations, and has a bar and restaurant, a fitness centre, an indoor pool, and a spa.
Banyan Tree AlUla offers a range of deluxe Dune one, two, and three bedroom villas, some with private pools. All accommodation is in spacious tented villas with air conditioning, a private entrance, a lounge area, and en suite facilities. Guests can expect very high standards of service and cleanliness, as well as amenities including a gym, an outdoor pool, a spa, and several restaurants.
Group Charter Flights to AIUla
If you want your journey to AIUla to be stylish and luxurious as well as comfortable and convenient, why not consider chartering a private jet?
This tailormade mode of transport is suitable whether you’re planning a family holiday, celebrating a special occasion, or taking a business trip. It also ensures that the experience is as much about the journey as the destination.
AIUla makes a most memorable destination for any event, where you can combine unique things to see and do with deluxe five star living. Just imagine hosting your delegates or guests against the striking desert backdrop, dotted with sandstone rock formations.
When you charter a private plane, your flight times can be arranged to suit you perfectly, while avoiding the stress, hustle, and bustle of the public airport arrivals and departure halls.
As for the aircraft itself, it can be set up to suit your requirements, too - whether you want to wind down with your family or do some networking and socialising en route.
Our experienced team will ensure the smoothest possible experience throughout your journey, from customs clearance and boarding your private jet to slick, comfortable hotel transfers.
Recommended Airport in AIUla for Private Jet
AlUla International Airport (ULH) is the airport serving AlUla in Saudi Arabia. It's situated around 15 miles southeast of the oasis city, or a 25-minute drive. This Middle Eastern airport can handle all sorts and sizes of private jet, whatever the purpose of your trip.
Why not experience the style, comfort, convenience, and seclusion of a private jet flight when travelling to AIUla? Our team is available 24/7.
