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AlUla Crowned Middle East’s Leading Cultural Tourism Project At World Travel Awards 2025

With its UNESCO-listed site Hegra, centuries-old heritage, and vibrant events the Winter at Tantora Festival, AlUla blends ancient history with modern cultural energy.

by Deeplata Garde
AlUla Crowned Middle East’s Leading Cultural Tourism Project At World Travel Awards 2025

Saudi Arabia is filled with gems, but AlUla can be called the crown jewel, and here’s why! AlUla, a magnificent historic gem and oasis, has bagged top honours at the World Travel Awards 2025. AlUla has officially earned the title of the Middle East’s Leading Cultural Tourism Project. Apart from the title, it has won two major awards, namely, Saudi Arabia’s Leading Cultural Tourism Project and the Middle East’s Leading Festival and Event Destination.

AlUla Crowned Middle East’s Leading Cultural Tourism Project

 

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AlUla has been redefining cultural tourism in the Middle East since its opening in 2019 for the public, as per a report by Travel and Tourism World. This ain’t the first time for Alula, as it’s the second consecutive win of this Saudi city at the World Travel Awards. Looks like AlUla is solidifying its reputation as a must-visit global destination. Every corner of AlUla, from its desert to its preserved heritage, has something to tell. As reported by the Saudi Press Agency, visitors from across the world continue to be drawn by its timeless charm, ancient ruins, and immersive cultural experiences.

Where History Meets Timeless Beauty

One can find AlUla in the Northwestern region of Saudi Arabia. Visiting AlUla is like entering a living museum to witness over 200,000 years of human history. From its rock carvings, tombs, to inscriptions, you can feel the early presence of human civilisation in here. 

What to visit in AlUla? Take your notepad and list the spots down. The region’s crowning glory, Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, should be on top of your must-visit list. The monumental Nabataean tombs carved into sandstone cliffs feel like stepping into a time capsule..

Festivals That Bring The Desert To Life

You are mistaken if you think AlUla is all about the past. The city knows how to walk with the present.  Its calendar is packed with world-class festivals and events with musicians and travellers from every corner of the globe. The upcoming Winter at Tantora Festival, running from December 8 to January 10, is the star of the season. Expect a spectacular fusion of music, art, culinary, and cultural performances under the desert stars.

Also Read: From Riyadh To AlUla, Michelin Guide Reveals Its First Selection Of Restaurants & They Are…

Why AlUla Deserves A Spot On Your Travel List

AlUla’s latest recognition at the World Travel Awards reflects how it blends ancient heritage and modern tourism to attract crowds. So visit the award-winning city of AlUla for festivals or just to explore the monuments around, and we bet it’s all worth the visit. 

Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/ xavierarnau from Getty Images

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First Published: November 03, 2025 4:40 PM