All trails lead to AlUla for top endurance racing this weekend

Above, a tomb at Madain Saleh near the northwestern Saudi Arabian city of AlUla. (AFP file photo)
Short Url
Updated 21 January 2025
Follow

All trails lead to AlUla for top endurance racing this weekend

  • AlUla contest will have 1,450 runners taking part
  • SR130,000 prize pot, SR20,000 for 100km winner

ALULA: The much-anticipated AlUla Trail Race will feature over 1,450 athletes racing on several courses on Jan. 23 and 24.

The contest features six courses for a wide variety of ages including the bucket list 100 km Hegra Hundred Ultra-Marathon, and is almost sold out, according to its website.

This year’s AlUla Trail Race weekend will have a 1.6 km Kids Run and 3 km Sunset Run, while those looking to test their limits will have an opportunity to take on the 10 km AlUla Oasis Run.

This year’s event offers a prize pool of SR136,000, with the winner of the 100 km Hegra Hundred Ultra-Marathon earning SR20,000.

There are also cash prizes for the podium finishers of the 10 km AlUla Oasis Run, 23 km Elephant Rock Run, and 50 km Al-Mejdar Ultra-Marathon.

Located in northwest Saudi Arabia, AlUla’s unique and stunning terrain offers runners the chance to navigate ancient trails once traveled by traders and pilgrims.

The area is surrounded by sprawling desert landscapes, towering rock formations, and verdant green oases.

In addition to the races, the Race Village will have food trucks, specialty coffee, live entertainment, and opportunities to explore AlUla’s remarkable heritage.

Runners will also have access to recovery zones with physiotherapy services for post-race care.


Taif festival celebrates Saudi Arabia’s literary icons

Updated 11 January 2026
Follow

Taif festival celebrates Saudi Arabia’s literary icons

  • It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content

TAIF: A special section highlighting key Saudi literary figures forms part of the Writers and Readers Festival in Taif.

The area explores the lives of distinguished writers, poets, and authors who have shaped the Kingdom’s creative landscape, influencing literature, journalism, theater and intellectual thought.

It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

Organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the festival runs until Jan. 15 and features 42 prominent publishing houses from Saudi Arabia and overseas, offering visitors the chance to explore the latest works in literature, philosophy and general knowledge.

Meanwhile, the festival’s interactive murals section engages visitors with openwork art panels, allowing them to contribute to the city’s features and identity.

The murals depict Taif’s natural and historical landmarks, including Al-Hada Mountain, the Taif rose gardens, and traditional Hijazi palaces. Others are inspired by Souq Okaz, a historic literary and commercial center linked to the region’s poetic heritage.

Designed by a visual artist, they blend folk-inspired elements with imaginative expression, creating a collaborative experience that celebrates the city’s beauty and brings art closer to the public.