History, nature and culture converge in EXO Travel’s new experience, ‘Essence of AlUla’. This brilliant day out puts the spotlight on one of Saudi Arabia’s most intriguing destinations.
Fawaz Al-Fageer, EXO Saudi Arabia Operations Manager for AlUla Region, shares his personal insight on the experience.
‘I was inspired to develop this tour because AlUla is considered one of the most important tourist destinations in Saudi Arabia,’ Fawaz explains. ‘It not only combines history, ancient and modern civilizations. There is also the different natural terrain in addition to its beautiful atmosphere.’
Fawaz also has deep personal ties to the site. He was born and raised just steps away from AlUla, growing up learning…
‘Hegra is where I was born, grew up. It reminds me of childhood memories and the history of my family and my tribe.’
Essence of AlUla begins with an in-depth visit to AlUla’s remarkable rock formations at Hegra, an area inhabited by the Nabatean people more than 2000 years ago. Guides share the fascinating story of this ancient kingdom as they lead guests to well-preserved tombs and pre-Arabic rock inscriptions.
‘My favourite experience in this tour is the visit to Hegra,’ Fawaz says. ‘In addition to its very ancient history, I also have a long personal history there. Hegra is where I was born, grew up, and studied. It reminds me of all childhood memories and the history of my family and my tribe.
The area is a fascinating mix of past and present, where historic traces of the Silk Road stand alongside modern cafes and souvenir shops.
Having explored the historic desert wonders, the excursion continues with a visit to AlUla’s atmospheric old city for a short walking tour through its labyrinth of alleys. The area is a fascinating mix of past and present, where historic traces of the Silk Road stand alongside modern cafes and souvenir shops.
AlUla is a must-see on any Saudi Arabia itinerary. As tourism continues to develop in the Kingdom, EXO will continue to develop new experiences in AlUla and beyond.
Regular inspections by our team will help us stay ahead of the curve. Fawaz explains, ‘In every short period of time that you are away from AlUla, you will find new projects under development when you return.’