AlUla named World’s Cultural Tourism Project 2025

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Known for its dramatic desert landscapes and rich heritage, AlUla is home to major cultural sites such as Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its well-preserved Nabataean tombs. (SPA)
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Updated 08 December 2025
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AlUla named World’s Cultural Tourism Project 2025

AlUla: AlUla has strengthened its reputation as a global hotspot after being named the World’s Leading Cultural Tourism Project 2025 at this year’s World Travel Awards.

The award, one of the most respected in the travel industry, was decided by votes from international experts, senior executives, buyers, tour operators, and agents, according to a recent Saudi Press Agency report.

Founded in 1993, the World Travel Awards recognize achievements across tourism and hospitality, covering categories from hotels and airlines to experiences and events.

This recognition follows a series of recent accolades for AlUla. The region’s honors include the Middle East’s Leading Cultural Tourism Project 2025, Middle East’s Leading Festival and Event Destination 2025, and Saudi Arabia’s Leading Cultural Tourism Project 2025 at the regional edition of the awards. 

Known for its dramatic desert landscapes and rich history, AlUla is home to major cultural sites including Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its well-preserved Nabataean tombs. 

With a history stretching back 200,000 years, and 7,000 years of continuous civilization, the region’s story is brought to life through the Royal Commission for AlUla’s year-round immersive experiences.


Saudi Arabia intercepts drone attack targeting Ras Tanura refinery: defense ministry 

Updated 47 min 58 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia intercepts drone attack targeting Ras Tanura refinery: defense ministry 

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia intercepted a drone attack targeting the Ras Tanura refinery, the defense ministry said Wednesday.

“Initial estimates indicate that the attack was carried out by a drone and did not result in any damage,” the ministry said in a statement posted on X.

An official source in the Ministry of Energy stated that no damage or disruption to supplies resulted from this attempted attack. 

The oil refinery at Ras Tanura, near Dammam, has been subjected to a drone attack earlier this week that caused limited fire. The refinery sustained limited damage as a result of debris from the interception of two drones in its vicinity.