The ancient landscapes of Al Ula in Saudi Arabia, with its dramatic desert vistas, have long been a place of passage for trade caravans and pilgrims. Located in the Medina Region in northwestern Saudi Arabia, Al Ula is famed for its natural beauty, rock formations, and archaeological significance. At the heart of this cultural crossroads is Ikmah Mountain, an open library of ancient inscriptions and a testament to the region's rich history.
While the area of Al Ula has been inhabited for millennia, it wasn't until recently that it has become an increasingly popular tourist destination. Historical interest in the region dates back to the 19th century, with western explorers and archaeologists documenting the site's inscriptions and ruins. However, it was not until Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative that Al Ula and Ikmah Mountain emerged on the global tourism stage.
The Saudi government embarked on an ambitious plan to showcase the country's pre-Islamic cultural heritage and transform the Kingdom into a major tourism destination. Ikmah Mountain, with its thousands of years old inscriptions in several languages, represents a significant portion of this cultural heritage, making it a focal point for tourists interested in history and archaeology.
With the introduction of tourist visas in 2019, Saudi Arabia began rapidly developing the necessary infrastructure to accommodate a surge in international visitors. New luxury hotels, resorts, and visitor centres, along with improved transportation connections, have made Ikmah Mountain more accessible.
Experiential Travel: Visitors to Ikmah Mountain are increasingly seeking immersive cultural experiences. Through guided tours, they can explore the history of the ancient Lihyanite and Nabatean kingdoms, learning about the rock art and inscriptions that tell stories of a bygone era.
Eco and Adventure Tourism: With the natural beauty of Al Ula's desert landscape, there is a rising trend in eco-tourism and adventure activities around Ikmah Mountain. Hiking, rock climbing, and desert safaris offer an adventurous complement to the cultural exploration.
Cultural Festivals: The area now hosts cultural events such as the Winter at Tantora Festival, where Ikmah Mountain forms a dramatic backdrop for concerts and art installations, blending the old with the new and attracting a diverse crowd.
As Ikmah Mountain and Al Ula continue to gain prominence on the international stage, tourism is expected to play an even more significant role in the region's development, offering visitors unparalleled insights into the rich tapestry of human history set against the stunning landscapes of the Saudi desert.
Religious Places (3)
Historical Places (10)
Museums (2)
Mountains (1)
