What to see in Saudi Arabia

Hegra

Hegra, also known as Al-Hijr or Mada'in Salih, is Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most fascinating archaeological treasures in the Middle East. Located in the AlUla region, Hegra was once a thriving Nabatean city, second only to Petra in Jordan. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into an ancient civilization through its well-preserved rock-cut tombs, inscriptions, and stunning desert landscapes.

The site is best known for its monumental tombs, carved into massive sandstone cliffs over 2,000 years ago. The most famous of these is Qasr Al-Farid, a solitary tomb with an intricately detailed façade that stands as a symbol of Hegra’s rich history. Other notable tombs, such as Qasr Al-Bint and Jabal Al-Ahmar, display remarkable Nabatean craftsmanship and inscriptions that provide insight into the culture and beliefs of the time.

Beyond its tombs, Hegra also features remnants of ancient wells, stone inscriptions, and the remains of a once-flourishing city that played a crucial role in trade routes connecting Arabia with the Mediterranean and Mesopotamia.

Surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of AlUla, Hegra is an open-air museum where history and nature merge. Visitors can explore the site through guided tours, offering an immersive journey into the Nabatean civilization and the mysteries of the desert.