Hegra: The Ancient City in Saudi Arabia

Situated in Al Ula, Hegra is among the lesser-visited destinations in Saudi Arabia, a country that has only recently begun welcoming international tourists. Unlike many established attractions, Hegra is not filled with large crowds or guides competing for visitors’ attention. Instead, its greatest appeal comes from its peaceful and secluded atmosphere.

From YPT’s point of view, Hegra can be likened to Persepolis in Iran or the pyramids of Sudan. Although these places are immensely important from a historical perspective, their popularity often means that they are crowded with tourists. Hegra provides a very different experience, allowing visitors to explore an important ancient site in relative peace.

The History of Hegra

Hegra’s history stretches back to the 1st century AD, when it served as the second-largest city of the Nabataean Kingdom, surpassed only by Petra. The region is also connected with important religious traditions, with figures such as Moses mentioned in relation to the area according to the Quran. Over time, however, religious developments and earthquakes contributed to the city’s eventual abandonment.

In 2008, Hegra achieved international recognition when it was designated Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Modern Hegra

For many years, Saudi Arabia was closed to non-Muslim tourists, and even after the country began easing its restrictions, destinations such as Al Ula remained inaccessible to most international visitors. The COVID-19 pandemic then created further obstacles to the development of tourism in the region.

The situation has since changed considerably. Saudi Arabia has opened its borders to international travelers, and Al Ula, including Hegra, has been accessible to visitors since early 2022. YPT currently visits the region twice a year.

What Is It Like to Visit Hegra?

Anyone fascinated by destinations such as Petra or Persepolis is likely to find Hegra equally impressive. Although it has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008, it remains relatively unfamiliar to international travelers, largely because Saudi Arabia only recently opened itself more widely to tourism.

For visitors, the limited number of tourists is part of what makes Hegra so appealing. Rather than navigating through dense crowds, you can explore the ancient remains without constantly competing for space. Tour guiding in Saudi Arabia is also still developing, so visitors may not receive the highly detailed commentary common at more established archaeological attractions. Instead, the quieter environment allows you to focus on the scenery, architecture and atmosphere of the site itself.

Saudi Arabia is also making a major effort to reduce its economic dependence on oil, with tourism playing an important role in this diversification strategy. Whether Saudi Arabia, Al Ula and Hegra will eventually become major tourism hotspots remains uncertain, but the country is rapidly becoming a destination for travelers looking beyond the traditional tourist trail.

How to Visit Hegra with YPT

Hegra lies in the Hejaz region, north of Al Ula. Travelers wishing to visit the archaeological site will need to join an organized tour that incorporates Al Ula into its itinerary. Although the wider region can be reached by plane, train or overland transportation, YPT recommends flying for its private tours. Reaching the archaeological ruins themselves requires suitable transportation and advance preparation.

Visitors should not expect the same level of tourist infrastructure found at more established international attractions, at least for now. One of the most convenient ways to explore Hegra and Mada’in Salih is to join a YPT Saudi Arabia tour that includes Al Ula as part of the itinerary.