The people, heritage, culture and natural beauty of AlUla in north-western Saudi Arabia make it truly unique. Referred to as a living museum, this up-and-coming destination, untouched by tourists until now, promises to take visitors on “a journey through time.”
“Home to Hegra, a UNESCO world heritage site and an archaeological site of the ancient Nabataean civilisation, dating back to the 4th century BC, it formed part of an old incense trade route, which also included Petra in Jordan. Combine this with the beautiful desert landscape, adventure, culture and people and it makes a visit to AlUla an unforgettable experience,” explains Oliver Ripley, the CEO and co-founder of Habitas, a global hospitality group with a community-centric conscience.
With Habitas properties much more than a place to stay, but “homes” that aim to change people’s lives by creating deeper human connections and positively impacting local communities through education, employment and establishing sustainable micro-economies, AlUla is the perfect location for its first Middle East property – a community focused eco-friendly resort that will redefine modern luxury with its experiential hospitality concept.
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Tracing the ancient Arab World Nabatacan Civilisation
The Nabataeans were an ancient Arab tribe who inhabited northern Arabia and the southern Levant. During the fourth century BC the Nabataeans lived as nomads in tents, loathed wine and did not have any interest in agriculture, but by the second century, they developed into an organized society, a distinct civilisation and political entity. They settled mostly in the city of Raqmu, which is now known as Petra, and is a city in Jordan. From there they expanded their territory to the Horan and Levant and finally announced Bosra as their capital.