Running until 11 January, this experience is a must-try if you’re still seeking a winter getaway.
With its vast deserts, rich history, and unique cultural experiences, Saudi Arabia has something to offer to every type of traveller. Among the destinations making a mark in the Kingdom is AlUla. While rooted in history, this UNESCO Heritage Site has much more to offer. And its Winter at Tantora festival has been a hit amongst travellers. Running until 11 January, here’s how to make the most of it.
Winter at Tantora is AlUla’s signature festival, celebrating culture, music, art, and history. The festival gets its name from the Tantora sundial, a traditional timekeeping device used by locals to mark the start of the winter planting season. Over the years, this tradition has evolved into a grand event that attracts visitors from across the globe.
What to do?
One of the first things on your agenda should be the newly-launched Immersive Theatre Experience. This activity takes you to the middle of the desert and allows you to participate in an interactive performance where you become part of the story. With your phone locked away, you can fully immerse yourself in the eerie yet exciting atmosphere, featuring a mix of strobing lights, music, and gripping theatrics reminiscent of a Walking Dead adventure. But don’t worry, there are no zombies here.
Then, make your way to AlUla Old Town for the Shorfat Tantora Concert, where talented musicians perform from balconies lining the streets. This celebration combines traditional and contemporary sounds, creating an atmosphere of community and celebration.
For those who enjoy a good hike, the Ibn Battuta Discovery Tour is where all the action lies. Inspired by the legendary explorer, this journey takes you through the Old Town and AlUla Oasis, offering a glimpse into its historical significance as a market town and a popular spot for pilgrims back in the day.
For a truly unique cultural immersion, join the Wedding Guest Experience at Dar Tantora. This three-hour adventure brings Saudi wedding traditions to life with music, henna, dancing, and authentic cuisine. Dress up as a guest, bless the happy couple, and enjoy a feast that highlights the warmth and hospitality of Saudi culture.
If music under the stars sounds like your vibe, don’t miss Sanaam AlUla Nights. This series of concerts celebrates the Year of the Camel, with camel projections on the surrounding mountains and a culinary journey featuring camel-inspired dishes, Saudi coffee, and dates.
Hop aboard a vintage Land Rover and explore the Hegra UNESCO site. This tour delves into the history of the Nabataeans, showcasing stunning desert landscapes, ancient tombs, and inscriptions carved into the mountains. Reminiscent of The Lion King’s Pride Lands — except for the animals, of course — this location is a must-visit for every history buff. With only 12 per cent of the old city discovered, you’ll be walking through sand that still has houses beneath it — waiting to be explored.
End your AlUla adventure with a Kashta dinner. Make your way to the middle of the desert, where a cosy tent awaits your arrival. The crackling fireplace and the aroma of freshly brewed qahwa on top will set the vibe for the evening. Then you can indulge in a feast of traditional dishes featuring the likes of Jareesh, Mandi, and Kabsa while enjoying live music under the starlit sky, making it the perfect way to cap off your trip.
Where to stay?
AlUla offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveller. If you’re looking for a lodge-like experience, Cloud 7 Residences, set against the backdrop of AlUla’s mountains, is a great choice. And if a luxurious abode is what you’re seeking, then head to the newly-opened Chedi Hegra, offering unparalleled elegance and comfort. But if experiencing the authentic culture of the region is what you crave, then Dar Tantora, with its traditional mudbrick architecture, should be your accommodation of choice.
Where to eat?
Much like the activities at Winter at Tantora, AlUla’s culinary scene also boasts many options. If you’d like to indulge in Levantine dishes, then Villa Fayrouz in Old Town is where you ought to be. The area also houses the newly-opened Jazean, a Saudi cafe serving coffee made from authentic beans, for you to try. For a more fine dining experience, Prima Classe Restaurant at The Chedi Hegra has a wide selection for you. Or head to Ducasse in AlUla, by renowned Chef Alain Ducasse, for a Michelin-worthy French dining experience.
GO: Visit www.experiencealula.com for more information.
