madain saleh tour from madinah

Saudi Arabia Tours

Madain Saleh Tour

Approx. 6-7 hours

Pickup Time:

8:00 am – we can change the time to suit you.

Tour Highlights:

Madain Saleh, Hegra, Hijaz Railway station, Elephant Rock, Dadan & Jabel Ikmah.

Tour Prices:

Your Tour leader/driver will be awaiting you. They will be holding a sign of your name, You do not need to look for them – they will be waiting for you and will find you.

From the moment your tour starts, your tour leader will give you full attention. Once in the car, your tour leader will talk to you about all the things on the way as well as other aspects of your tour that will interest you.

Start your tour visiting the  Hegra , also known as  Madain Saleh  , or Al-Ḥijr is an archaeological site located in the area of AlUla within Al Madinah Region in the Hejaz, Saudi Arabia. A majority of the remains date from the Nabatean kingdom. The site constitutes the kingdom’s southernmost and largest settlement after Petra, its capital.

The Archaeological Site of Al-Hijr (Madain Saleh) is the first World Heritage property to be inscribed in Saudi Arabia. Formerly known as Hegra it is the largest conserved site of the civilization of the Nabataeans south of Petra in Jordan. It features well-preserved monumental tombs with decorated facades dating from the 1st century BC to the 1st century AD. The site also features some 50 inscriptions of the pre-Nabataean period and some cave drawings. Al-Hijr bears a unique testimony to Nabataean civilization. With its 111 monumental tombs, 94 of which are decorated, and water wells, the site is an outstanding example of the Nabataeans’ architectural accomplishment and hydraulic expertise.

Then enjoy  Elephant   Rock ,This spectacular rock formation resembles an elephant with its trunk touching the ground, is one of AlUla’s geomorphological wonders became one of AlUla iconic landmarks.

Elephant Rock, also known as Jabal AlFil, one of AlUla’s many geological marvels.

Then visit  Jabal Ikmah , An open air library across AlUla’s Valley, lie thousands of inscriptions in Aramaic, Dadanitic, Thamudic, Minaic and Nabataean, features one of the oldest inscriptions of the Islamic era dating back to 24AH (644 CE).

Thousands of pre-Arabic inscriptions across numerous sites make AlUla an important location in studying the Arabic language. A mountain north of the AlUla Valley, AlAqra’a, features more than 450 early Arabic inscriptions. Naqsh Zuhayr, to the east, features one of the oldest inscriptions of the Islamic era — dating back to 24AH (644 CE). But no such site is more significant than Jabal Ikmah, home to the highest concentration of and most varied inscriptions in AlUla.

In a beautiful desert landscape warmed by the sun, the largest “open library” in Saudi Arabia sits tucked away in a remote canyon valley.

Dadan  was a caravan way station for many peoples, and one of the clues that AlUla was truly a crossroads of civilisations is Jabal Ikmah, which was visited by those wishing to leave their inscriptions and offerings en route through AlUla. Records kept here — in the form of hundreds of inscriptions and carvings lining the cliff faces and rocks — ensured that Jabal Ikmah would be remembered throughout the ages.

A visit to this magnificent site, with its inscriptions thought to date as far back as the 1st millennium BCE, is a glimpse into the past.

Note: sightseeing tours on Herga and Dadan & ikmah will be sharing with a local tour guide and a small local group.

Travel in comfort back to your hotel, AlUla has so much to see, feel, eat and buy so if you have time and want to add more to your itinerary – just let us know what you are interested in and we will arrange it for you.

• Flexibility to customize your itinerary to your own preferences
• All transfers by modern air-conditioned van from your hotel in AlUla
• Tour leader/driver.
• Entrance fees
• All Service charges and taxes

How to Get to Hegra (Madain Saleh) and the Al Ula Valley

When traveling to Saudi Arabia, you might wonder how to get to Hegra and the Al Ula Valley. As one of the country’s foremost sights, you’re sure to want to visit the wondrous rock-cut tombs of Hegra, known to locals as Madain Saleh or al-Hijr. And you won’t want to miss the other breathtaking discoveries to be had in the Al Ula Valley. All of the best spots are covered in our guide to visiting Hegra and Al Ula . These range from the ancient mud-brick town of Al Ula to the Ekma Gorge or the nearby volcano fields.

Situated in the country’s northwest deserts, getting to Hegra and the Al Ula Valley might seem impossible. In fact, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is in fact very easy to reach. And once you’re already there, why not take a 3 day tour of Saudi Arabia and Hegra from Al Ula to learn all of its secrets? Here are the best ways to reach Hegra from Saudi Arabia, as well as Aqaba and Israel.

How to Get to Hegra From Riyadh

With transport already arranged and expert guides on hand, guided tours are the easiest way to reach Hegra, and allow you to simply sit back and enjoy the landscapes of a country still shrouded in mystery. Removing the risk of getting lost, or of losing insight on the day because of the language barrier, calculated minute for minute, guided tours are in fact a cost-effective way to explore Hegra and Al Ula, and a whole lot less stressful too.

Should you decide to go it alone, the Saudi capital of Riyadh is approximately 10 hours by road from Hegra. Driving in the kingdom is fairly straightforward, since the roads are well-maintained, however accident rates are some of the highest in the world. Fuel is inexpensive because of Saudi’s vast oil reserves, at around $0.4/liter, and vehicles can be rented in Riyadh for approximately $35/day. All you’ll need is an international driving license.

The Saudi Public Transport Company SAPTCO operates comfortable air-conditioned buses from Riyadh to Al Ula, which take approximately 13.5 hours from end to end and cost around $60. While these coaches stop regularly for comfort breaks, there’s obviously no way of exploring sights along the route more fully. Coach stations are also often inconveniently located for travelers. Local taxis will then take you on to the valley, 22 kilometers away. The fare will cost you $10-15 one way, although you’ll need a vehicle to explore the spaced-out ruins too.

If time is not on your side, the best way of getting to Hegra from Riyadh is to fly, which reduces the travelling time down to around three hours. Saudia, the national carrier, flies into Prince Abdul Majeed bin Abdulaziz domestic airport at Al Ula four times weekly, with flights evenly distributed throughout the week. The airport is roughly 35 kilometers south of Al Ula, and is connected to the city by taxis.

How to Get to Hegra From Jeddah

A whole string of archaeological sites and other attractions newly opened to the wider world exist between Jeddah and Hegra, and while information on them remains difficult to come by, a guided tour ensures you miss none of what this intriguing country has to offer.

If you’re set on renting a vehicle, the most scenic way of reaching Hegra from Jeddah is to follow the coast of the Red Sea north to the town of Yanbu. King Abdullah Economic City acts as a useful rest stop roughly halfway. You then need to turn inland in a north-easterly direction until Al Ula, with regular directions ensuring it’s difficult to get lost. However, the road journey from Jeddah will take around 8 hours to complete, and more still if using any of SAPTCO’s coach services, costing around $50 per person instead.

From Jeddah, flying remains the most sensible option of getting to Hegra for the time conscious. Flights on Saudia to Al Ula’s modern domestic airport around three times per week in either direction.

How to Get to Hegra From Medina

While non-Muslims are not permitted to visit Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, they are allowed to visit Medina. It has a large number of important sites worth considering on any itinerary to Saudi Arabia.

From Medina, it is a much shorter journey by road than from Riyadh and Jeddah; only four hours or 350 kilometers. It is also a simple journey, with the most direct path following Route 328 north for most of the way. Unfortunately, it is unlikely SAPTCO coaches will take non-Muslim passengers from Medina to Hegra. This is not an official ban and appears to depend on individual ticket sellers.

Both shared taxis and private taxis will complete the whole journey for you at a price. If you bargain well, a private taxi is about $150 one way. Shared taxis are around a quarter of that price per person. This makes a private taxi a reasonable option if you are traveling as a group.

How to Get to Hegra From Aqaba               

Tours taking in this fascinating archaeological treasure aren’t just an option from inside Saudi Arabia. A number of companies running multi-country tours that take in both Jordan and Saudi, including this 4 day tour from Aqaba . This allows visitors to compare the two most important cities in the Nabatean empire, Petra and Hegra.

Crossing the border from Jordan south into Saudi is pain-free. While opting for a guided tour means there’s someone else who speaks the language to worry about the red tape at the border crossing, it is also possible to do it independently.

From the Red Sea resort of Aqaba, buses and shared taxis run to the two nearest borders with Saudi Arabia. The Dourra border post connects with the Saudi city of Haql on the Red Sea. The Al Mudawara border post lies around two hours and 150 kilometers inland. It has better road connections to Tabuk and its stunning national park, and on to the Al Ula Valley.

Transport to the border will cost around $25, with a similar price for continuing on to Al Ula. Both border posts are open 24 hours a day. You will need to have organized a Saudi visa before traveling, as they are not available at the border. Expect border formalities to take around an hour, and a little longer at peak times and on public holidays.

How to Get to Hegra From Israel

Even if you begin your journey around the Middle East in Israel, it is still possible to hand all the hard work of organizing transport and planning itineraries to the experts. Many tours to Hegra operate from Israel too. They include this 13 day highlights of Jordan, Israel, and Saudi Arabia tour that leaves from Tel Aviv, or this 4 day tour from Eilat . Given the site’s location in the northwest of the country, travel times are no greater than from Riyadh or Jeddah either.

At present, political disagreements mean there are no direct flights between Israel and Saudi Arabia. However, it is possible to travel overland between the two countries by road, via Jordan. If you have already organized a visa for Jordan, you can use any of the borders from Israel. If you haven’t, you can buy a visa at the border. Your best option is the Arava border near Eilat. The border is open daily from 06.30 to 20.00 Monday to Thursday and 08.00 to 20.00 on Fridays and Saturdays. Visa prices vary depending on nationality, but cost about $60. On crossing the border, the fastest route onward is to take a taxi to Aqaba. It costs around $15, and then follow our guidance above from Aqaba to Hegra.

Visiting Saudi Arabia’s Archaeological Gems

This guide on how to get to Hegra and the Al Ula Valley covers both independent and guided travel. Visiting this area is well worth the effort, and can be done from across the Middle East. Be sure you know what to wear in Saudi Arabia , and when to visit Saudi Arabia !

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Madain Saleh (al-Hijr)

The Mada'en Saleh (مدائن صالح), also known as al-Hijr I (ٱلْحِجْر‎), is located amid a series of interlocking mountains and rocky cliffs and surrounded by a ring of sandy mountains. al-Hijr was mentioned in the Holy Qur'an , and described as the home of the Thamud . Located today in al-Ula governorate a subdivision of al-Madinah al-Munawarah Province of Saudi Arabia, the Mada’in Saleh (“the cities of Salih”) are the remains of the once wealthy and powerful Nabataean kingdom.

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Madain Saleh is considered to be the most important settlement of the Nabataeans, second only to Petra . Its most significant cultural role dates back to the first two centuries BCE and first century CE, i.e., during the flourishing Nabataean state and before its fall at the hands of the Roman Emperor in 106 CE Al Hijr continued to be a source of cultural energy and intellectual interaction probably until the 4th century CE These are said to be the tombs of Qom e Thamud , as are considered cursed by the Muslims.

Notable Structures

circa 100 CE

Jabl al-Ahmar Jabl al-Ahmar (جبل الاحمر) also known as the Area C is an outcrop in the southeastern part of Mada’in Saleh that contains numerous tombs, dating to 16-61 CE. It is located in the southeastern portion of Madain Saleh and features three tombs with drawings dating to between CE 16 and CE 61. The tombs are burial chambers without special adornments. Consists of a single isolated outcrop containing 19 cut tombs, and no ornamentations were carved on the façades.

ad-Diwan The triclinium style ad-Diwan (ديوان), also spelled as al-Diwan, is a square chamber containing three stone benches that served as a triclinium for sacred feasts. Today, the chamber is known as al-Diwan (court). Its large entrance suggests that the feasts extended into the open space before it. The Diwan itself was a place reserved for religious gatherings and consisted of a rectangular room carved in the rock measuring 12.8 x 9.9 metres and 8 metres in height.

al-Siq The narrow passageway known as the al-Siq (السيق), reminiscent of the Siq in Petra , runs towards the south from al-Diwan, measures about 40m wide between two rock faces lined with more small altars. The jagged cliff walls of the siq, the natural passageway leading to Jabal Ithlib, had decorated votive niches to Nabatean gods carved into the rock and petroglyphs of camels and traders.

Qasr al-Bint The Qasr al Bint (قصر البنت), “Palace of the Daughter or Maiden,” is the largest tomb façade at Mada’in Saleh, with a height of 16 m. It lends its name to the group of adjacent tombs as well. The portal is raised above ground. Above the doorway an inscription plaque indicates that it dates to circa 31 CE. It consists of a wonderful row of facades that makes for dramatic viewing from across Madain Saleh. The east face has two particularly well-preserved tombs.

Qasr al-Farid The Qasr al-Farid (قصر الفريد), an unfinished tomb that stands alone. The facade was never finished, so the heavily chiseled surface of the lower third documents how the tombs were fashioned from the top down. It is the most photogenic and most iconic symbol of Mada’in Saleh, a single tomb carved into a small dome that stands alone in the open. The façade was never finished, so the heavily chiseled surface of the lower third documents how the tombs were fashioned from the top down.

Qasr al-Sanea The Qasr al-Sanea (قصر الصانع), was one of the first tombs to be carved in the al-Hijr area. It served as a prelude to the other Nabataean architectural style tombs. It is one of the best preserved tombs in Madain Saleh. It represents an introduction to the key elements of the style of the Nabatean’s tombs. It has a great facade, with five stepped crow-steps, and the inscriptions at the top of the door and the niches inside the structure into which the dead bodies were placed.

Unfinished Tomb

Ottoman Caravanserai

Between 1744 and 1757, a fort was built at al-Hijr (Madain Saleh) on the orders of the Ottoman governor of Damascus, As'ad Pasha al-Azm. A cistern supplied by a large well within the fort was also built, and the site served as a one-day stop for Hajj pilgrims where they could purchase goods such as dates, lemons and oranges. It was part of a series of fortifications built to protect the pilgrimage route to Mecca.

• People of Thamud
• Ubar: Iram of the Pillars
• Hammond, Philip C. The Nabataeans--Their History, Culture and Archaeology. Gothenburg, P. Åström (S. vägen 61), 1973.
• " Al-Hijr Archaeological Site (Madâin Sâlih) ". UNESCO. Retrieved 2014-04-07.
• Abu-Nasr, Donna (2009-08-30). " Digging up the Saudi past: Some would rather not ". Associated Press. Retrieved 2014-04-07.
• " HISTORY: Expansion of the Nabataeans ". Historical Madain Salih. Retrieved 2014-04-07.
• The New Encyclopædia Britannica: Macropædia Volume 13. USA: Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc. 1995. p. 840. ISBN 0-85229-605-3.
• " The Online Corpus of the Inscriptions of Ancient North Arabia ". krc.orient.ox.ac.uk. Retrieved 2016-07-15.
• The Historical Record of Ibn Khaldon, Volume: 2, Page: 641
• Taylor, Jane. Petra and the Lost Kingdom of the Nabataeans. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 2002.
• " Move Under Way to Restore Madain Salih Railway Station ". Arab News. 2006-06-22. Retrieved 2014-04-07.
• Encyclopædia Britannica, Under the Category of: History of Arabia, the Section of: Dedān and Al-Ḥijr.
• Sahih al-Bukhari, Narrated: ʿAbdullah ibn ʿUmar, Hadiths: 2116 & 3379.
• Baker, Randall (1979). King Hussein And The Kingdom of Hejaz. p. 18. ISBN 0-900891-48-3.
• Hoyland, Robert G. (2001). Arabia and the Arabs: From the Bronze Age to the Coming of Islam . Routledge. p. 69. ISBN 0415195349.
• " HISTORY: Explanation of the Verses ". Historical Madain Salih. Retrieved 2014-04-07.
• M. Th. Houtsma et al., eds., E.J. Brill's first encyclopaedia of Islam, 1913-1936.
• Hizon, Danny. " Madain Salih: Arabia's Hidden Treasure – Saudi Arabia ". Retrieved 2009-09-17.
• Kitab Al-Aghani, Abu Al-Faraj Al-Asfahani, Volume: 4, Page: 74
• The Detailed History of Arabs before Islam, Prof. Jawwad Ali, Volume: 15, Page: 301
• Al-Talhi, Dhaifallah. (2000). Mada'in Salih, a Nabataean town in north west Arabia: analysis and interpretation of the excavation 1986-1990.
• " Madain Salih – Cities inhabited by the People of Thamud ". Retrieved 2009-09-17.
• Ibn Kathir (2003). Al-Bidâya wa-l-Nihâya ("The Beginning and the End") Vol.1. Beirut: Dar al-Kutub al-Ilmiyya. p. 159.
• Harrison, Timothy P.. "Ḥijr." Encyclopaedia of the Qurʾān. General Editor: Jane Dammen McAuliffe, Georgetown University, Washington DC. Brill Online, 2016.
• Bowerstock, G. W. Roman Arabia. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1983.
• Healey, John F. The Nabataean Tomb Inscriptions of Mada'in Salih. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1993.

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• Saudi Arabia Holidays
• Where to Travel

Hegra (Madain Saleh)

Where to travel in  saudi arabia.

Saudi Arabia is a fabulous destination for culture, adventure and remote tourism. A three-week tour would cover the Kingdom’s highlights, but with any shorter duration it will be necessary to be selective. For non-Muslims the ruins of Madain Saleh (the 2nd Petra) are the main reason to visit Saudi Arabia, but these fabulous tombs are just the tip of the palm tree. Asir and Al Bahah offer fortified houses and mountains; Eastern Province has the vast oasis of Al Ahsa; the northern and central part of the country have fabulous desert scenery and caravan cities; while in the Red Sea you’ll find a technicoloured wonderland. Our Saudi Arabia guides and suggested itineraries are a good starting point for planning. When you want to move forward, our tailor-made Saudi Arabia team are on hand to help fine tune ideas to ensure that you’ll be able to have the perfect tour. 

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• Jeddah & The Hijaz
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• Hijaz Railway & Medina Province
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• Hail & Jubbah
• Eastern Province
• Asir & Al Bahah

Madain   Saleh ’s rock- hewn   tombs were ‘lost’ to the world until Charles   Doughty’s   ‘rediscovery’ in 1876 and are now Saudi Arabia’s premier tourist attraction. Built by the   Nabataean   Arabs as their southern capital,   Madain   Saleh   is set in a spectacular desert landscape studded with sandstone monoliths a short drive from modern Al   Ula . Anciently known as   Hegra   or Al- Hijr , the city was built around the 1st century AD to protect the   Nabataean’s   lucrative long distance camel caravans bringing precious trade goods from south Arabia to their principal settlement of Petra (in Jordan).   Madain   Saleh   is frequently compared to its older and larger sister city, but the comparison only goes so far, as the settings are very different (desert vs mountain) and the younger settlement’s tombs are in a better state of preservation. This magical   UNESCO   World Heritage site has a total of 111 monumental tombs (94 of which are decorated) carved into its perpendicular cliffs. A day, or at least a full afternoon, are required to explore the site fully, however, the highlights can be seen in a couple of hours. On arrival at   Madain   Saleh , you’ll stop at the Visitors’ Centre, once a Railway Station on the Ottoman built   Hijaz   Railway. Like Doughty, your first sight of ancient   Hegra’s   tombs will be a breath-taking panoramic view of the rock outcrop called   Qasr   Al- Bint   where two of the site’s finest tombs are located. Further on, you’ll reach   Jebel   Ithlib   where the cave-like   Diwan   (a cult centre) is situated next to a narrow gorge ( Siq ) leading to a magnificent amphitheatre of rock. The tombs at Al- Mahajar , Al   Khuraymat   and   Qasr   Al- Sani   are omitted on shorter visits to   Madain   Saleh , but it is impossible to   forego   driving on to   Qasr   al- Farid . The largest and most dramatic of all the ancient   Hegra’s   tombs, the elaborate four-story-high   Qasr   al- Farid   stands gloriously alone in the desert and has become the iconic image of Saudi Arabian tourism.

Hegra (Madain Saleh) - Unmissable Sights

Qasr al-farid.

The most photographed of Madain Saleh’s spectacular Nabataean tombs stands alone in the desert and is an imposing four stories high. 

Qasr al-Bint

The largest tomb façade at Madain Saleh and location of two of the most accomplished tombs at the site. 

Jabal Ithlib

The holy mountain of the Nabataeans is pierced by a narrow ‘Siq’ gorge and is the location of the sacred ‘Diwan’ chamber.

Hegra (Madain Saleh) media gallery

Saudi Arabia Holidays visiting Hegra (Madain Saleh)

Saudi Arabia: The Kingdom

8 days / 7 nights from £6345 pp, riyadh * jubbah * al ula * madain saleh * hijaz railway * jeddah.

This introductory tour reveals Saudi Arabia's most magical cultural highlights.

Saudi Self-Drive: Road Trip to Madain Saleh

11 days / 10 nights from £3590 pp, riyadh * ushaiger * buraidah * hail * jubbah * al ula * hegra * yanbu * jeddah.

A self-drive road trip through the scenic deserts & coastline of the Arabian Peninsula with some private guiding.

Madain Saleh & Arabia Deserta

10 days / 9 nights from £4895 pp, riyadh * al jawf * jubbah * shuwaymis * al ula * madain saleh * dadan * jeddah.

Explore Saudi Arabia's archaeological treasures as well as its rock art & scenic wonders.

Saudi Arabian Explorer

10 days / 9 nights from, riyadh * jabal hisma * wadi al disah * al ula * madain saleh * umluj * jeddah.

An adventure through one of the world’s last untamed frontiers combing desert, canyons & the 'Saudi Maldives'.

Jordan & Saudi Arabia Tour

12 days / 11 nights from £4890 pp, amman * jerash * petra * wadi rum * midian * wadi al disah * al ula * hegra * hijaz railway * jeddah.

This scenic journey follows the ancient incense route and combines Petra with Hegra.

Saudi Arabia & Luxury Oman

11 days / 10 nights from £4795 pp, riyadh * diriyah * tabuk * wadi tayyib al ism * wadi al disah * al ula * hegra * muscat.

Explore the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's highlights then relax in style by the beach in the Sultanate of Oman.

Grand Tour of Saudi Arabia

17 days / 16 nights from, riyadh * ushaiger * buraidah * jubbah * sakaka * tabuk * al ula * hegra * jeddah * al bahah * asir.

A grand sweep through a country that is the greatest enigma in the Middle East and its most overlooked treasure.

Hotels in Hegra (Madain Saleh)

Sahary al ula resort.

Set in a towering U shaped canyon, Sahary Al Ula Resort has a magical desert location clos...

Shaden MGallery Al Ula

Shaden MGallery Al Ula is sited in a breath-taking desert location overlooking fabulous we...

Private Tour Inspiration

8 days / 7 nights from £6345 pp

Al Ula & The Saudi Maldives

9 days / 8 nights from £4990 pp.

Classic Saudi Arabia

11 days / 10 nights from £5795 pp.

10 days / 9 nights from £4895 pp

Saudi Arabia & The Hijaz Railway

10 days / 9 nights from £5495 pp.

11 days / 10 nights from £3590 pp

Saudi Explorer: Deserts & Volcanoes

10 days / 9 nights from £5180 pp.

11 days / 10 nights from £4795 pp

Arabia Felix: Asir & Al Bahah

Saudi Arabia: The Incense Route

14 days / 13 nights from £0 pp.

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Madain Saleh

Top choice in Northern Saudi Arabia

Often dubbed the 'second Petra', Madain Saleh, for many, is on a par with – if not more impressive than – its famous cousin across the border in Jordan. Both were major trading cities along the ancient Nabataean trade routes, as confirmed by recent excavations that have revealed the foundations of houses and a market area for traders and caravans. However, it's the 131 enigmatic tombs, which combine elements of Graeco-Roman architecture with Nabataean and Babylonian imagery, that grab all the attention.

At the time of research the site was closed for refurbishment and due to reopen in October 2020, when the Hejaz Railway station within the site will become the new visitor centre for the signposted main entrance off Route 375. Given Saudi Arabia's track record of abruptly closing and opening major tourist sights, however, it is best to call the contact centre ahead of any attempted visit.

At the main entrance of the site is the Madain Saleh station of the Hejaz Railway , soon to become the visitors centre. Built in 1907, it consists of 16 buildings and includes a large workshop (with a restored WWI-era engine), shells of train carriages and a rebuilt Turkish fort that served as a resting place for pilgrims travelling to Mecca.

Qasr Al Saneh reveals many of the essential elements of Nabataean funerary architecture: a relatively unadorned facade, two five-step motifs at the top, a simple interior burial chamber with shelves for corpses, and inscriptions above the doorway. Built around AD 50, Qasr Al Saneh was in use for just 50 years before the Nabataean kings were overwhelmed by the Romans.

Al Khuraymat , about 750m north of Qasr Al Saneh, has some of the best-preserved tombs in Madain Saleh – around 20 tombs are carved into the rock face. Look out for elegant gynosphinxes (spirit guardians with women’s heads, lions’ bodies and wings) adorning the corners of pediments. There is some archaeological evidence of plasterwork on the facades and a suggestion that people feasted outside familial tombs – a Nabataean ‘Day of the Dead’. The Nabataeans were masters of hydrology and manipulated rain run-off and underground aquifers to thrive in the desert landscape. The great Nabataean Well was one of more than 60 wells currently known of in the city. The wall supports – added in the 20th century – were built from railway sleepers pilfered from the Hejaz Railway. The Al Mahajar tombs are especially photogenic and some of the oldest at Madain Saleh.

Al Diwan , carved into a hillside to shield it from the wind, is one of the few extant examples of nonfunerary architecture in Madain Saleh. The name ( diwan means 'living room') owes more to modern Arab culture than to the Nabataeans, who probably used the area for sacred feasts. Opposite the hollowed-out room, which contains three benches and a large entrance suggesting that the feasts extended outdoors, are niches cut into the rock where Nabataean deities were carved. Exposure to the elements has badly weathered these carvings.

Running south from Al Diwan is the Siq , a narrow passageway measuring about 40m wide between two rock faces lined with more small altars. At the far end is a striking natural amphitheatre . Climb along the southeastern slope up to a number of altars. From here, look west and soak in the breathtaking views.

Qasr Al Bint (Palace of the Daughter) consists of a wonderful row of facades that makes for dramatic viewing from across Madain Saleh. The east face has two particularly well-preserved tombs. If you step back and look up near the northern end of the west face, you’ll distinguish a tomb that was abandoned in the early stages of construction and would, if completed, have been the largest in Madain Saleh – only the step facade was cut. These tombs date to about AD 31.

Qasr Farid in the south is the largest tomb of Madain Saleh and perhaps the most stunning. It's carved from a free-standing rock monolith, in a location that gives it a rare beauty. Try to arrive for sunset, when the enigmatic tomb passes through shades of pink and gold until darkness falls: breathtaking.

Jebel Al Ahmar Area C i s in the southeastern portion of Madain Saleh and features three tombs with drawings dating to between AD 16 and AD 61. The tombs are burial chambers without special adornments.

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Unveiling the Kingdom's Wonders, One Journey at a Time.

Madain saleh tour.

Approx. 6-7 hours

Pickup Time:

8:00 am – we can change the time to suit you.

Tour Highlights:

Madain Saleh, Hegra, Hijaz Railway station, Elephant Rock, Dadan & Jabel Ikmah.

Your Tour leader/driver will be awaiting you. They will be holding a sign of your name, You do not need to look for them – they will be waiting for you and will find you.

From the moment your tour starts, your tour leader will give you full attention. Once in the car, your tour leader will talk to you about all the things on the way as well as other aspects of your tour that will interest you.

Start your tour visiting the  Hegra , also known as  Madain Saleh  , or Al-Ḥijr is an archaeological site located in the area of AlUla within Al Madinah Region in the Hejaz, Saudi Arabia. A majority of the remains date from the Nabatean kingdom. The site constitutes the kingdom’s southernmost and largest settlement after Petra, its capital.

The Archaeological Site of Al-Hijr (Madain Saleh) is the first World Heritage property to be inscribed in Saudi Arabia. Formerly known as Hegra it is the largest conserved site of the civilization of the Nabataeans south of Petra in Jordan. It features well-preserved monumental tombs with decorated facades dating from the 1st century BC to the 1st century AD. The site also features some 50 inscriptions of the pre-Nabataean period and some cave drawings. Al-Hijr bears a unique testimony to Nabataean civilization. With its 111 monumental tombs, 94 of which are decorated, and water wells, the site is an outstanding example of the Nabataeans’ architectural accomplishment and hydraulic expertise.

Then enjoy  Elephant   Rock ,This spectacular rock formation resembles an elephant with its trunk touching the ground, is one of AlUla’s geomorphological wonders became one of AlUla iconic landmarks.

Elephant Rock, also known as Jabal AlFil, one of AlUla’s many geological marvels.

Then visit  Jabal Ikmah , An open air library across AlUla’s Valley, lie thousands of inscriptions in Aramaic, Dadanitic, Thamudic, Minaic and Nabataean, features one of the oldest inscriptions of the Islamic era dating back to 24AH (644 CE).

Thousands of pre-Arabic inscriptions across numerous sites make AlUla an important location in studying the Arabic language. A mountain north of the AlUla Valley, AlAqra’a, features more than 450 early Arabic inscriptions. Naqsh Zuhayr, to the east, features one of the oldest inscriptions of the Islamic era — dating back to 24AH (644 CE). But no such site is more significant than Jabal Ikmah, home to the highest concentration of and most varied inscriptions in AlUla.

In a beautiful desert landscape warmed by the sun, the largest “open library” in Saudi Arabia sits tucked away in a remote canyon valley.

Dadan  was a caravan way station for many peoples, and one of the clues that AlUla was truly a crossroads of civilisations is Jabal Ikmah, which was visited by those wishing to leave their inscriptions and offerings en route through AlUla. Records kept here — in the form of hundreds of inscriptions and carvings lining the cliff faces and rocks — ensured that Jabal Ikmah would be remembered throughout the ages.

A visit to this magnificent site, with its inscriptions thought to date as far back as the 1st millennium BCE, is a glimpse into the past.

Note: sightseeing tours on Herga and Dadan & ikmah will be sharing with a local tour guide and a small local group.

Travel in comfort back to your hotel, AlUla has so much to see, feel, eat and buy so if you have time and want to add more to your itinerary – just let us know what you are interested in and we will arrange it for you.

• Flexibility to customize your itinerary to your own preferences
• All transfers by modern air-conditioned van from your hotel in AlUla
• Tour leader/driver.
• Entrance fees
• All Service charges and taxes

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Madain Saleh – Hegra / Al Hijr – History, Facts, Importance – Everything You Need To Know

Table of Contents

The name “ Madain Saleh ” is derived from the Quranic reference to the People of Thamud, also known as Nabateans, an ancient Arabian tribe associated with the heritage site in the Madinah province.

It is said that the People of Thamud were punished for their disbelief, and their settlement carved out of mountains – Al Hijr was transformed into a city of rocks.

Let’s dive deep into the story of Al-Ula:

What is Madain Saleh / Hegra / Al Hijr?

Madain Saleh was once a city in Saudi Arabia ruled by the Nabateans, just like Petra. Today, it is an archaeological site that boasts well-preserved monumental tombs.

It thrived during the same period, from the 1st century BCE to 74 CE. The Nabateans were skilled traders, and they established a network of routes connecting their capital city, Petra, with their southern outpost, Madain Saleh.

The city of tombs served as a crucial trade stop along the incense route for transporting valuable spices and perfumes from southern Arabia to the Mediterranean world.

Al Ula AKA Madain Saleh a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The tombs of Madain Saleh in Saudi Arabia are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in Saudi Arabia, they represent the Nabataean civilization in Jordan’s Petra.

If you look at a map, you will see it standing on the Arabian Peninsula’s trade route.

Al Hijr is also called an archaeological site by the name “The Capital of Monuments.” It has various inscriptions and cave drawings in old languages, reading as scripts.

There are 111 water wells and tombs at the site that depict the Nabataeans’ architectural accomplishments and hydraulic expertise.

What is the Story of Madain Saleh

The beautiful views and tombs of the Madain Saleh site attracted the People of Thamud and convinced them it was the perfect place to build their home. That’s how the Al Hijr settlement came to be.

Amongst them was Prophet Saleh, who had built a respectful image. He was a wealthy man, and the People of Thamud considered him a wise man with virtue. They were ready to appoint him as their tribe’s leader.

It was at this time that Allah (SWT) made Saleh a Prophet. When Saleh saw Nabataeans worshipping idols, Prophet Saleh (AS) said:

“O my people, worship Allah; you have no deity other than Him. He has produced you from the earth and settled you in it. So, ask forgiveness of Him and then repent to Him. Indeed, my Lord is near and responsive.” [Quran, 11:61]  

He continued to bring people to the right path and worship Allah (SWT), but they said:

“O Saleh, you were among us a man of promise before this. Do you forbid us to worship what our fathers worshipped? And indeed, we are in disquieting doubt about that to which you invite us.” [Quran, 11:62]  

Despite his warnings, the majority of the Nabataeans rebuked Saleh and even spread rumors that he was possessed.

More and more people started to follow Prophet Saleh (AS). The People of Thamud feared that this might lead to a revolt and their idols would be thrown out, so they decided to confront Saleh with a plan. They asked him to show a miracle to prove that he was Allah’s (SWT) messenger.

The leaders of Thamud gathered with prohet Saleh (AS) and pointed at a rock, demanding that he bring a she-camel from underneath it. Saleh was committed to Islam and wanted the People of Thamud to follow him, so he pleaded with Allah (SWT) to bring the she-camel to life.

The day came when Allah (SWT) granted Saleh’s wish, and the People of Thamud witnessed the arrival of the she-camel. As the rock split, a gigantic, red, 10-month-pregnant she-camel emerged, surprising the People of Thamud.

Then and there, many Nabataeans followed Saleh and declared their faith. Those who remained untouched even after witnessing the miracle said this was magic.

As more people converted to Islam, the leaders of Thamud feared that prophet Saleh (AS) would lead their people away from the path their forefathers followed. So, they conspired against the miracle.

“O my people, this is the she-camel of Allah – [she is] to you a sign. So, let her feed upon Allah’s earth and do not touch her with harm, or you will be taken by an impending punishment.” [Quran, 11:64]

As the disbelievers watched the she-camel drink from their common well and graze on the land, their hatred intensified. Nine of them got together and decided to kill the she-camel.

As the she-camel approached the well to quench her thirst, one of the men shot her in the long, hindering her escape. Others sprang forward and ended her life with a sword.

The disbelievers cheered and, to the believers’ horror, ate the meat of the she-camel. When prohet Saleh (AS) heard of the killing, he hurried to salvage the situation, but it was too late. Witnessing the slaughtered she-camel, he said:

“Enjoy yourselves in your homes for three days. That is a promise that will not be denied.” [Quran, 11:65]

When the disbelievers mocked Prophet Saleh (AS), he said:

“O my people, why are you impatient for evil before good? Why do you not seek forgiveness of Allāh that you may receive mercy?” [Quran, 27:46]

Allah’s (SWT) wrath was coming.

“And they planned a plan, and We planned a plan, while they perceived not” [Quran, 27:50] 

Approximately three days after prophet Saleh’s (AS) warning, severe earthquakes shook the ground of the Madain Saleh site, and thunderbolts struck the rock structure and tombs, destroying everything.

A cry sounded in the air, and all the disbelievers died at the same time. After the destruction of the People of Thamud, prophet Saleh (AS) migrated to Palestine and lived there until he returned to Allah (SWT).

Prophet Salih (AS)

Prophet Salih (AS) is a significant figure in the Quran. He was one of the prophets sent by Allah (SWT) to guide the people of the city of Thamud, who lived in Al Ula.

Prophet Saleh’s (AS) story carries valuable lessons about the consequences of disbelief and the importance of obeying divine commands.

He achieved Prophethood when he led the People of Thamud to the path of righteousness.

Who Were the People of Thamud

The people of Thamud were an ancient Arabian tribe believed to have lived in the Al Hijr region of present-day Saudi Arabia. Their history is shrouded in mystery, but they are well-documented in various historical and religious texts, including the Quran.

They came after Ad, another tribe that Allah (SWT) destroyed for their disbelief.

The She-Camel

The she-camel that the People of Thamud wanted Prophet Saleh (AS) to conjure from underneath the rock was an extremely tall, attractive, very woolly, and pregnant animal. The camel was able to produce milk for all the people of Madain Saleh.

When Saleh pleaded with Allah (SWT) to make the miracle happen, a red camel emerged with all the characteristics the People of Thamud had demanded in the camel.

The Earthquake

The story of the people of Thamud reaches its end with divine retribution in the form of a catastrophic earthquake. After repeated warnings from Prophet Saleh (AS), the people of Thamud were given a final chance to repent and turn away from their sinful ways.

However, they persisted in their arrogance and denial, demanding proof of Saleh’s prophethood (AS) again.

In response to their obstinacy, Allah (SWT) unleashed a fearsome earthquake that shook the very foundations of the land. The Quran describes the event vividly:

“And when Our command came, We saved Salih and those who believed with him by a mercy from Us, and [saved them] from the disgrace of that day. Indeed, it is your Lord who is the Powerful, the Exalted in Might.”

[Quran, 11:66]

The earthquake was so devastating that it annihilated the People of Thamud and left them in ruins. Their once-mighty structures and tombs, which they had carved into the mountains with such pride, were reduced to rubble.

They and the Maden Saleh site became nothing more than a cautionary tale for future generations.

Verses from the Quran

“The people of Stone Valley (al-Hijr) also rejected Our Messengers. We gave them Our signs, but they turned their backs. They carved out dwellings in the mountains and lived in security. But the blast overwhelmed them early in the morning.” [Quran, 15:80-84] “The Destruction of the Dwellers of High Rocky Plain (Al-Hijr), Who Were Known as People called Thamud” [Quran, 29:38] “And the people of ’Ad and Thamud met a similar fate, which must be clear to you Meccans from their ruins. Satan made their evil deeds appealing to them, hindering them from the Right Way, although they were capable of reasoning.” [Quran, 29:38] “Do you construct on every elevation a sign amusing yourselves? And take for yourselves palaces and fortresses that you may abide eternally?” [Quran, 128-129]

Why Did Allah Destroy the People of Thamud?

The people of Thamud had deviated from the teachings of the Prophet Noah (AS) and started practicing idolatry. They carved idols out of stone and worshipped them, associating partners with Allah (SWT). This was a grave sin in Islam, as it went against the oneness of Allah (Tawhid).

Because of their mastery in carving homes in the mountains, they became arrogant and proud of their accomplishments. They believed in their self-sufficiency and denied the blessings of Allah (SWT).

Their arrogance led them to reject the message of the Prophet Saleh (AS), who was sent to guide them back to righteousness.

Allah (SWT) didn’t like their oppressive behavior and mistreatment of the weak. They would exploit their fellow citizens and showed no mercy or compassion.

The People of Thamud rejected Allah’s messenger, prophet Saleh (AS), and even challenged him to provide a miracle as proof of his prophethood.

When Allah (SWT) granted Prophet Saleh (AS) the miraculous birth of a she-camel from a massive rock, they demanded that the she-camel perform specific feats.

When the she-camel did so, they still refused to believe and instead plotted to kill the miraculous animal.

Their stubbornness and refusal to repent ultimately sealed their fate.

What Did Prophet Muhammad (SAW) Say About Madain Saleh?

“And call to mind when He made you successors after ‘Ad and gave you power in the earth so that you took for yourselves palaces in its plains and hewed out dwellings in the mountains. Remember, then, the wondrous bounties of Allah, and do not go about creating mischief in the land.” [Quran, 7:74]

During his journey for the Battle of Tabuk, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions passed by Al Ula. He pointed out Madain Saleh and its tombs to his companions and said it was ibrat.

He told them only to drink water from the well that Prophet Saleh’s (AS) she-came drank water from and forbade them to drink or eat anything else from the area.

Why is Madain Saleh Forbidden?

In the 1970s, the Council of Senior Ulama released an official fatwa that forbade visitation to the Madain Saleh site and the tombs.

It also prohibited the excavation and development of Hegra tombs because it was a place that had seen the wrath of Allah (SWT). This is one of the reasons behind the belief that Maiden Saleh is cursed

Is it Permissible to Visit Madain Saleh?

While Madain Saleh and its tombs are an archeological site and not entirely “forbidden,” there are certain restrictions on access to the heritage center.

Visitors can explore the site, but it is essential to follow specific guidelines and rules to preserve its historical integrity.

Summary – Madain Saleh

The people of Thamud initially trusted and accepted Prophet Saleh’s (AS) message. However, their jealousy and disobedience led them to reject his guidance and commit sinful acts.

The story of Thamud demonstrates the consequences of defying Allah’s (SWT) commands and not believing in his power.

It serves as a reminder that individuals and communities can face divine retribution if they persist in wrongdoing. This is why the Maden Saleh site is now turned to rubble.

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“And call to mind when He made you successors after 'Ad and gave you power in the earth so that you took for yourselves palaces in its plains and hewed out dwellings in the mountains. Remember, then, the wondrous bounties of Allah, and do not go about creating mischief in the land.” [Quran, 7:74]

Summary - Madain Saleh

Madain Saleh Tour

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Expert tour guide
• All Service charges & taxes
• Entry/Admission - Hegra
• Entry/Admission - Hijaz Railway Station
• Entry/Admission - Dadan & Jabal Ikmah
• Any extras not mentioned in the itinerary.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travellers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travellers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll get picked up See departure details
• Pass by AlUla Old Town of AlUla
• 1 Hegra Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
• 2 Dadan & Jabal Ikmah Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details Pass by Jabal AlFil (Elephant Rock)
• 3 Hegra Stop: 60 minutes See details
• You'll return to the starting point

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Madain Saleh Tour - with unbiased reviews

Madain Saleh Tour

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Expert tour guide
• All Service charges & taxes
• Entry/Admission - Hegra
• Entry/Admission - Hijaz Railway Station
• Entry/Admission - Dadan & Jabal Ikmah
• Any extras not mentioned in the itinerary.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travellers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travellers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll get picked up See departure details
• Pass by AlUla Old Town of AlUla
• 1 Hegra Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
• 2 Dadan & Jabal Ikmah Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details Pass by Jabal AlFil (Elephant Rock)
• 3 Hegra Stop: 60 minutes See details
• You'll return to the starting point

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Madain Saleh Tour - with unbiased reviews

Madain Saleh Tour

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Expert tour guide
• All Service charges & taxes
• Entry/Admission - Hegra
• Entry/Admission - Hijaz Railway Station
• Entry/Admission - Dadan & Jabal Ikmah
• Any extras not mentioned in the itinerary.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travellers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travellers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll get picked up See departure details
• Pass by AlUla Old Town of AlUla
• 1 Hegra Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
• 2 Dadan & Jabal Ikmah Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details Pass by Jabal AlFil (Elephant Rock)
• 3 Hegra Stop: 60 minutes See details
• You'll return to the starting point

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Madain Saleh Tour - with unbiased reviews