The Ancient Kingdoms Festival returns to AlUla from November 20 to December 6, 2025, transforming the stunning landscape into an immersive open-air museum.
This year's festival
promises its most ambitious program yet, inviting visitors to explore the rich
history along the ancient Incense Road through cultural performances,
archaeological tours, and unique artefacts.
Highlights of the
festival include the Hegra Candlelit Classics, featuring world-class music
against the backdrop of Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
On November 20, Japanese artist YOSHIKI will
perform alongside Grammy-nominated trumpeter Ibrahim Maalouf, followed by
multi-Grammy winner Jon Batiste on November 21, bringing jazz and soul to the
magnificent Nabataean tombs.
Additionally, the
award-winning Hegra After Dark will run from November 26 to February 14, 2026.
This immersive theatre experience transports visitors into the world of the
Nabataeans through a horse and carriage journey, blending music, scents, and
historical narratives.
The Stories from the
Sky drone show promises to be a highlight, utilising synchronised drones and
projections to illustrate ancient tales, while the Incense Road Experience
offers a theatrical exploration of AlUla's history through sensory engagement,
including a chance to create personal incense blends.
A new feature this
year, Secrets of the Scribe – Ikmah After Dark, invites guests on a torchlit
tour into Ikmah gorge to uncover ancient writings and enjoy culinary treats
inspired by the region's heritage.
For adventure seekers,
the Hegra Geology Hike provides guided explorations of AlUla's unique rock
formations, revealing nearly a billion years of geological history, with
participants receiving a commemorative book.
The Awaken the Tales –
Old Town Escape House merges heritage with modern entertainment, challenging
families to solve puzzles within a historic home, while Hegra Children’s Tours
ensure young explorers engage with the Nabataean kingdom through interactive
learning. -TradeArabia News Service