Practical Information: Al Ula

Local SIM Cards & Mobile Providers

Saudi Arabia has three main mobile network providers: STC, Mobily, and Zain. All good coverage in AlUla town and at major attractions.

Getting Connected

Purchase: Easily purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at Prince Abdul Majeed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (ULH) or at official provider stores in AlUla town.
Requirements: Your passport for registration, as all SIM cards in Saudi Arabia must be registered to an individual.
Cost: Tourist SIM packages typically range from SAR 50-150, depending on the data allowance and validity period. These generally sufficient data for navigation, communication, and social media.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi Availability

Staying connected through Wi-Fi or mobile data is generally reliable throughout AlUla.

Accessing the Internet

Wi-Fi: Widely available and generally reliable in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and major tourist sites throughout AlUla. Most accommodations complimentary Wi-Fi for guests.
Mobile Data: 4G and 5G coverage is good in AlUla town and at major attractions, fast internet access on your mobile device if you have a local SIM.
Postal Services: Saudi Post (SPL) has offices in AlUla town. Services reliable for sending letters and parcels, both domestically and internationally.

Language Barriers & Translation Resources

While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Translation resources bridge any gaps.

Bridging Languages

Official Language: Arabic is the official language of Saudi Arabia.
English: Widely spoken by staff in hotels, tourist attractions, and many restaurants. Many younger Saudis also speak English. Less common in smaller local shops or rural areas.
Translation Resources: The Google Translate app is useful. Download Arabic language pack for offline use.

Important Arabic Phrases

Learning a few basic Arabic phrases demonstrates respect and can interactions with locals.

Greetings & Expressions

Hello: Marhaba (مرحبا) - Mahr-ha-bah
Thank you: Shukran (شكراً) - Shook-ran
Please: Min fadlak (to a man) / Min fadlik (to a woman) (من فضلك) - Min fad-lak / min fad-lik

Communication Tools

Global Connectivity

For seamless mobile data, consider Airalo (eSIM).
For portable Wi-Fi, explore Solis Wi-Fi (Portable Hotspot).
For language learning, check Rosetta Stone (Language Learning).
Offline translation apps (e.g., Google Translate with Arabic pack) are highly useful.

Essential Arabic Phrases

How much?: Kam hatha? (كم هذا؟) - Kam ha-tha
Where is...?: Ayna...? (أين...؟) - Ay-na
Yes: Na'am (نعم) - Nah-am
No: La (لا) - Lah

Airport Services

Airport lounges: Priority Pass. Flight compensation: Compensair.

Business Hours & Schedules

Shops & Malls

Shops: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, then 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM. Malls: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM (extended on weekends). Some shops may close on Friday mornings.

Government Offices

Operate Sunday to Thursday, usually from 7:30 AM - 2:30 PM. Plan your administrative tasks accordingly during weekdays.

Tourist Attractions

Hours vary greatly by season and specific site. Generally open morning until late afternoon, with some evening sessions. Check AlUla Moments website for current operating hours.

Banking Hours & ATM Locations

Banks typically operate during weekdays, while ATMs are widely available for cash access.

Financial Access

Banks: Typically open Sunday to Thursday, from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM.
ATMs: Widely available 24/7 in AlUla town, at major hotels, and at the airport.
Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, major restaurants, and shops.

Seasonal Closures & Limited Schedules

Certain activities are seasonal, and schedules may vary, especially during the hot summer months.

Planning Ahead

Some outdoor activities, like hot air ballooning, are seasonal (mainly winter).
Certain outdoor tours or experiences may be suspended or operate on limited schedules during the extremely hot summer (May-September) for safety.
Always check the official AlUla Moments website for current operating hours for specific sites and tours, as these can change.

Religious & Public Holidays

Dates & Impact

Weekend: Official weekend is Friday and Saturday. Many businesses operate on reduced hours or close on Friday mornings for communal prayer.
Ramadan: Businesses operate on reduced hours. Eating, drinking, and smoking in public are prohibited for everyone during daylight hours.
Eid Al-Fitr & Eid Al-Adha: Major Islamic holidays. Many businesses close for several days. Dates vary annually.

National Celebrations

Saudi National Day (September 23): A public holiday.
Founding Day (February 22): A public holiday.
These dates impact operating hours and availability of services.

Operational Awareness

Always check official websites or contact businesses directly for the most current operating hours and holiday schedules.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Adhering to local customs respects the culture and enriches your experience in AlUla.

Greeting Customs

Handshakes are common between men. For women, it is best to wait for them to extend a hand first. A slight nod, a smile, or a hand over the heart a respectful alternative.

Basic Interactions

"As-salamu alaykum" (Peace be upon you) is a common and appreciated greeting.
Appropriate Attire: Dress modestly in public, covering shoulders and knees for both men and women. Loose-fitting clothing is preferred. (Refer to Section 3.1)
Dining & Tipping: Always eat and offer or receive items with your right hand. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. (Refer to Section 7.1 and 2.3)

Photography Permissions & Restrictions

Photography is generally permitted at public tourist sites and natural attractions, with important exceptions.

Capturing Moments

Do not photograph locals without explicit permission, especially women. This a matter of privacy and respect.
Avoid photographing government buildings, military sites, or airports.
Some historical sites may have restrictions on flash photography or drone usage; always check signage or ask your guide.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Awareness of local taboos is essential for a respectful and problem-free visit.

What to Avoid

Alcohol: Strictly prohibited. Do not attempt to bring, consume, or be under the influence of alcohol. Penalties are severe.
Public Displays of Affection: Avoid overt public displays of affection, even between married couples.
Criticism of Royalty or Islam: Avoid discussing sensitive political or religious topics. These are deeply personal and respected matters.

Gender Considerations

While gender segregation is less strict, awareness of local customs for interaction is beneficial.

Interactions and Safety

While segregation is much less strict than in the past, some public spaces might still have separate sections for families/women and single men. Respect these designated areas.
Women generally experience respect but should be mindful of local customs. Solo female travelers are generally safe in AlUla.
LGBTQ+: Homosexuality is illegal in Saudi Arabia. Public displays of same-sex affection are not tolerated. Travelers should exercise discretion.

Accessibility Information

Infrastructure & Access

Newer developments, luxury resorts, and Maraya Concert Hall generally feature good accessibility.
Older, historic areas may present more challenges with uneven ground.
Pre-arranged accessible transfers are recommended for transport.

Special Needs & Resources

Limited specialized services are currently in place for visual or hearing impairments.
Advisable to travel with a companion or arrange assistance in advance through your tour operator or hotel.
Contact the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) or specific hotels for precise accessibility provisions.

Additional Notes on Etiquette

Respectful Conduct

Clapping in public can be considered unusual, avoid it.
Keep voices low in public spaces, especially near residences or mosques.
Keep mobile phone conversations private and discreet.

Dining Customs

Always eat and pass items with your right hand.
Avoid pointing the soles of your feet at others, which is disrespectful.
Tipping is appreciated but not customary for all services.

Your Impact Matters

Embracing local customs and etiquette enriches your experience and shows respect for the community. Travel responsibly.

Accessibility & Responsible Travel

AlUla is improving accessibility for travelers with diverse needs, especially in its newer developments. Your environmental awareness protects this unique landscape.

Infrastructure for Mobility Challenges

Newer developments like luxury resorts and Maraya Concert Hall good accessibility.

Facilities & Considerations

Newer sites include ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Older, historic areas may present more challenges with uneven ground and sand.
Pre-arranged accessible transfers are recommended for transportation.

Protected Areas & Conservation Initiatives

AlUla is a fragile desert ecosystem with significant conservation initiatives underway.

Environmental Protection

Sharaan Nature Reserve: A major initiative focused on rewilding the Arabian leopard and native flora and fauna.
Hegra and Dadan: UNESCO World Heritage sites managed under strict conservation guidelines.
Oasis Rejuvenation: The Royal Commission for AlUla actively restoring and managing the ancient AlUla Oasis.

Cultural Preservation Efforts

The Royal Commission for AlUla actively engaged in preserving and restoring historical sites and traditional architecture.

Safeguarding Heritage

Restoring historical sites like AlUla Old Town and traditional architecture.
Your respectful engagement these efforts.
Visitor access is controlled to minimize and preserve the integrity of ancient structures.

Economic Impact & Local Support

Your travel choices a positive economic impact on the local community.

Supporting the Community

Community-based tourism initiatives involve local communities directly in the tourism sector.
Support local businesses by patronizing local restaurants, cafes, and small shops.
Purchase souvenirs and crafts directly from local markets or artisan shops.

Eco-Friendly & Ethical Choices

Sustainable Stays

Look for accommodations highlighting sustainability, like Habitas AlUla, designed with eco-friendly principles.

Ecobnb

Ethical Gear

Support brands that champion sustainable practices in their products.

Patagonia

Responsible Products

Choose reusable products to minimize waste during your travels.

Package Free Shop

Your Responsible Travel Impact

By embracing sustainable and responsible travel practices, you become a thoughtful visitor, leaving a positive legacy in AlUla and fostering a more meaningful connection with this extraordinary destination. Your choices a difference in preserving AlUla's past, present, and future.

Practical Information