Ambassadors journey to AlUla’s historical marvels

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The ambassadors’ trip offered an enlightening escapade into the rich historical and archaeological wonders nestled within AlUla. (Supplied)
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The ambassadors’ trip offered an enlightening escapade into the rich historical and archaeological wonders nestled within AlUla. (Supplied)
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The ambassadors’ trip offered an enlightening escapade into the rich historical and archaeological wonders nestled within AlUla. (Supplied)
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Dya-Eddine Said Bamakhrama, the ambassador of Djibouti and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, right, and Abdulmajeed Al-Samary, the undersecretary of protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, left. (Supplied)
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Group photo of esteemed ambassadors of accredited countries to the Kingdom and their families next to Maraya building in AlUla. (Supplied)
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The ambassadors’ trip offered an enlightening escapade into the rich historical and archaeological wonders nestled within AlUla. (Supplied)
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Updated 28 December 2023
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Ambassadors journey to AlUla’s historical marvels

  • The AlUla trip was quite spectacular. My ambassador colleagues and I had a chance to enjoy the beautiful city and take in its marvelous history, says Dya-Eddine Said Bamakhrama

JEDDAH, RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently organized an immersive expedition to AlUla for the ambassadors of accredited countries to the Kingdom and their families.

The trip offered an enlightening escapade into the rich historical and archaeological wonders nestled within AlUla.

Led by Abdulmajeed Al-Samary, the undersecretary of protocol at the ministry, the ambassadors explored AlUla’s distinguished landmarks — with the heart of their visit being Hegra, a destination revered as the Kingdom’s inaugural UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site.

The ambassadors were treated to an insightful tour, delving into the historical significance enshrined within Qasr Al-Bint and Qasr Al-Farid.

Another great moment of their expedition was the visit to Maraya Theater, a breathtaking architectural marvel celebrated as the world’s largest mirrored building.

To commemorate this significant occasion, the ministry hosted a lunch, offering a wonderful setting for the ambassadors to further cherish their AlUla experience.

Liselotte Plesner, ambassador of Denmark to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Yemen, shared her enchantment on her official X account. Posting picturesque snapshots of Elephant Rock, Maraya, Hegra, and the great mountains of AlUla, she wrote: “Cozy moment at Elephant Rock #AlUla.”

Plesner extended heartfelt gratitude to the ministry for curating an unforgettable day that left an indelible mark on her and her fellow diplomats.

Dya-Eddine Said Bamakhrama, the ambassador of Djibouti and dean of the Diplomatic Corps to the Kingdom, told Arab News: “The AlUla trip was quite spectacular. My ambassador colleagues and I had a chance to enjoy the beautiful city and take in its marvelous history. We’ve had many trips in the Kingdom with the kind hosting of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and witnessed first-hand how diverse and beautiful Saudi Arabia truly is.”

On his official account on X, Bamakhrama conveyed his appreciation for the well-organized trip that provided a profound exploration of Hegra and its historical significance.

He wrote: “Ambassadors and their families also appreciated the meticulous organization by the ministry’s officials, particularly Mr. Abdulmajeed Al-Samary, who accompanied us with great care and supervision during the trip.”

Anibal Gomez Toledo, ambassador of Mexico to Saudi Arabia, was unable to attend the trip to AlUla, but reposted the trip photos on X and told Arab News: “Yes, the embassy fully recommends visiting AlUla.”


Citrus festival highlights AlUla’s heritage, economy

Updated 10 January 2026
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Citrus festival highlights AlUla’s heritage, economy

  • The rise in visitor numbers reflects the festival’s prominence as a major agricultural and community event. It runs until Jan. 16

ALULA: The AlUla Citrus Festival has seen a remarkable turnout of residents and visitors as it has coincided with the mid-year school break, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The festival is being held at the farmers’ market in the cultural oasis, amid an environment that blends stunning natural beauty with the governorate's rich agricultural heritage.

The rise in visitor numbers reflects the festival’s prominence as a major agricultural and community event. It runs until Jan. 16.

It allows visitors to explore local products and purchase citrus fruits directly from farmers, highlighting the deep connection between the people, their land, and agricultural legacy.

The festival showcases a diverse selection of AlUla’s finest citrus fruits, alongside platforms for local producers, the SPA added.

The event also features interactive family-friendly activities and live cooking demonstrations.

It contributes to revitalizing agricultural economic activity and reinforces agricultural seasons as a pillar of sustainable development in the governorate.

The AlUla Citrus Festival is a key social and economic event and gives local farmers a vital platform to showcase and sell their produce, supporting the agricultural economy of a governorate home to nearly 5,000 productive farms.