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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Saudi Arabia

Accommodation Types

Full spectrum of lodging options

  • Luxury Resorts

    Immersive experiences integrated into the desert landscape, with sophisticated amenities.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Smaller, locally themed hotels with personalized service and unique designs.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    Standard hotels with comfortable rooms and essential amenities, often near the town center.

  • Glamping/Desert Camps

    Outdoor stays blending camping with luxury amenities, connecting with the desert.

Unique local accommodation types

  • Habitas AlUla

    An eco-luxury resort with villas blending into Ashar Valley's desert landscape.

  • Banyan Tree AlUla

    Luxury tented desert resort in Ashar Valley with private pools.

  • Shaden Resort AlUla

    A desert-themed resort with traditional architecture and views of rock formations.

  • Guest Houses

    Limited local guest houses offer a more traditional Saudi experience.

Neighborhood Guide

AlUla offers distinct areas for staying, each with its own character.

AlUla Old Town

Pros
  • Historic ambiance, walkable
  • Close to cafes and local life
  • Unique feel
  • Good base for general AlUla exploration
Cons
  • Limited luxury options
  • Can be busy during peak times
  • Less quiet
  • Portions undergoing restoration

Wadi Ashar

Pros
  • Immersive desert experience
  • Stunning views, luxury amenities
  • Secluded and serene
  • Very quiet ambiance
Cons
  • Very high cost
  • Transport needed for other sites
  • Less local interaction
  • Mainly for the resort experience

AlUla Town modern center

Pros
  • More affordable rates
  • Access to local services
  • Central for transport and practical needs
  • Readily available taxis
Cons
  • Lacks scenic beauty
  • Lacks historical charm of other areas
  • Utilitarian feel
  • Can have some local street noise

Safety Considerations

General Safety

All areas in AlUla are generally considered safe for visitors. The region maintains a strong security presence.

Airport Proximity

A few hotel options near AlUla Airport cater to flight convenience, but are further from main attractions.

Booking Strategies

Strategic booking ensures you secure suitable accommodation at a reasonable price, specifically in a developing destination like AlUla.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • Peak Season (November-March) & Major Events: Book 3-6 months ahead. Prices rise closer to travel.
  • Shoulder Season (April, October): Booking 1-2 months in advance is recommended.
  • Low Season (May-September): More booking flexibility, yet a few weeks out is still good for rates.
  • Walk-in rates are not common, pre-booking online is the standard method.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • International Platforms: Use Booking.com, Agoda, or IHG Hotels.
  • Directly via Hotel Websites: Can present exclusive rates or packages.
  • Official AlUla Moments Website: Useful for package deals combining stays with tours.
  • Vacation Rentals: Limited private rentals on platforms like Vrbo or Airbnb exist.

Policies and Fluctuations

Deposit & Cancellation
  • Policies vary by hotel and platform.
  • Review terms carefully before confirming.
  • Some luxury properties have stricter terms.
  • Credit card guarantee is a common requirement.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Prices are significantly higher during winter.
  • Major festivals also influence higher prices.
  • Be aware of these trends for budget planning.

House Sitting

Opportunity

While not common, house/pet sitting exchanges through platforms like TrustedHousesitters might occasionally become available.

Budget Option

Consider Hostelworld for budget accommodation if available, though AlUla has limited hostel options.

Local Initiatives

Some local initiatives may slowly introduce homestay opportunities, but these are not yet widely formalized.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are top picks categorized by budget and traveler type.

Luxury Stays

Habitas AlUla

An eco-friendly desert resort in Ashar Valley.

  • Unique blend of nature, wellness, luxury.
  • Design integrates with the landscape.
  • Villa-style rooms.
  • Highly sought after.
Banyan Tree AlUla

Located in Ashar Valley, this resort features private tented villas.

  • Opulent glamping experience.
  • Stunning rock views.
  • High-end amenities.
  • Secluded and sophisticated.

Mid-Range Options

Shaden Resort AlUla

Good amenities, comfortable rooms, and decent desert views.

  • Solid option for comfort.
  • Family suites available.
  • Recreational facilities present.
  • Value without ultra-luxury prices.
Sahary AlUla Resort

This resort provides comfortable accommodation.

  • Often well-located for town amenities.
  • Good access to tours.
  • Reliable service.
  • A balanced choice for many.

Budget/Value Stays

  • AlUla Heritage Hotel

    Offers basic, clean, comfortable rooms. Good value for money.

  • Independent Guesthouses

    Limited independent guesthouses or farm stays may exist locally.

  • Research Options

    Research these options carefully on booking sites for reviews and availability.

  • Solo Traveler

    Mid-range hotels in AlUla town present convenient access and affordable pricing.

Long-Stay & Cultural Significance

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Dedicated long-stay options are limited. Inquire about weekly or monthly rates directly with hotels.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Vacation rentals via platforms like Airbnb might be more suitable for longer stays, though selection is not extensive.

  • Cultural Significance

    AlUla Old Town is developing guesthouses within restored mud-brick buildings for unique cultural immersion.

  • Historic Settings

    These offer a chance to stay within a historic setting once fully open for booking.

Diverse Options

Family-Friendly

Resorts like Shaden Resort and some glamping sites cater to families. They often feature pools and open spaces for children.

  • Family suites or larger accommodations.
  • Consider properties with recreational facilities.
  • Open spaces for play.
  • Comfortable for all ages.
Solo Traveler

Mid-range hotels in AlUla town offer convenient access and more affordable pricing. Some glamping or boutique hotels have communal areas for social interaction.

  • Convenient local services.
  • Opportunities for social interaction.
  • Value-focused options.
  • Good base for tours.

Choose Your Stay

Luxury Resorts

AlUla's top-tier options focus on immersive experiences and sophisticated amenities.

Mid-Range Hotels

Comfortable and practical options, often in the modern town center.

Glamping Experiences

A unique blend of outdoor camping with luxury, connecting with the desert night sky.