About RCU
RCU was established in July 2017.
The objectives of RCU include preserving AlUla’s natural and cultural heritage, developing the area into a global destination for cultural and eco-tourism, and driving economic growth and community development.
The AlUla strategy focuses on sustainable development, conservation of historical sites, and enhancing the visitor experience through world-class attractions, infrastructure, and community engagement.
The role of RCU in Saudi Arabia is to oversee major economic, cultural, and infrastructural development projects, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s objectives to promote sustainable growth, diversification, and cultural enrichment.
Living in AlUla
Living in AlUla offers a unique blend of ancient culture and modern living against the backdrop of stunning natural beauty. Residents enjoy a peaceful lifestyle with access to modern amenities, cultural events, and outdoor adventures, all within a community that values heritage and sustainability.
AlUla hosts a variety of community programmes ranging from cultural workshops and art exhibitions to environmental conservation projects and sports events. These programmes are designed to enrich the community’s social, cultural, and physical well-being.
Residents can participate in AlUla’s development projects through public consultations, volunteer opportunities, and community meetings. RCU frequently seeks resident input on projects to ensure they meet the community’s needs and expectations.
Saudi Vision 2030 aims to enhance the quality of life for AlUla residents by investing in infrastructure, boosting the local economy, creating job opportunities, and preserving the area’s natural and historical sites for future generations.
Residents and prospective residents can provide feedback or suggestions through the feedback and suggestions form available on this page. Your insights are invaluable to us and will be considered in future planning and development efforts.
Business in AlUla
Expats can explore investment opportunities in diverse sectors such as tourism, hospitality, real estate, technology, and renewable energy, with a special focus on the emerging projects in AlUla, aimed at cultural and eco-tourism development.
Saudi Arabia offers vast business opportunities across sectors including technology, tourism, entertainment, and mining. The Vision 2030 initiative aims to diversify the economy, opening new prospects in AlUla for sustainable tourism and cultural heritage projects.
Visiting AlUla
AlUla is a year-round destination, coming to life particularly from October to April when the beautiful weather and extensive calendar of festivals and events takes place. Some of the region’s coolest summer temperatures also make it an enjoyable place to spend long evenings outdoors from June to September.
Yes, AlUla offers a range of guided tours that cater to different interests, including history, nature, and adventure, ensuring a rich and informative experience.
In AlUla, you can enjoy a wide array of activities, from hiking and hot air balloon rides to exploring ancient sites and attending world-class events and festivals.
AlUla is accessible via its international airport, welcoming flights from major cities. Road access is also available for those who prefer a scenic drive into the heart of wonder.
Path to Prosperity
Path to Prosperity has been designed to increase economic opportunities for our community. It will supercharge economic development by creating thriving new neighbourhoods and districts, such as the Entertainment, Retail, and Business Area in AlUla South.
Path to Prosperity encourages greater uptake of sports through access to new recreational facilities, with AlUla Sports Club & High-Performance Centre, AlUla Private Gym, and Mughayra Sports Village being some of the priority projects. Public spaces for outdoor living will feature outdoor gyms, skate parks, and football pitches.
Path to Prosperity reimagines public spaces for a growing population. The expanded public realm will combine public facilities and beautiful green open spaces to promote an active and social lifestyle for the people of AlUla.
Recognising the importance of education, Path to Prosperity’s development areas will be equipped with quality schools, including kindergartens; elementary, intermediate, and high schools; international and private schools; and special needs schools.
Path to Prosperity encourages residents to share in the transformative power of arts and culture. It will enable the development of centres of creativity and collaboration, with spaces for our community to socialise and grow their skills.
Path to Prosperity reimagines public spaces for a growing population. The expanded public realm will combine public facilities and beautiful green open spaces to promote an active and social lifestyle for the people of AlUla.
Path to Prosperity is introducing new healthcare services, and priority projects include uplifting primary healthcare centres and Prince Abdulmohsen bin Abdulaziz Hospital. In addition, the Social Rehabilitation Centre will open in 2025 in AlUla South.
Sharaan Nature Reserve
The Sharaan Nature Reserve in AlUla aims to preserve natural beauty, restore biodiversity, and balance ecosystems. It’s located in the Eastern Canyons, featuring diverse habitats for native species.
Sharaan was chosen due to its diverse desert habitats and historical significance. Restoration is crucial due to overgrazing and habitat degradation.
Governance involves a steering committee of international conservation experts to meet global standards.
The reserve is open to the public with guidelines to minimise impact, following an initial launch event for animal release.
Goals will be achieved through habitat restoration, boundary fencing to exclude livestock, reintroduction of native species, and community engagement.
Partners include IUCN and CAWM(College of African Wildlife Management) for ranger training and local communities for conservation efforts.
The Saudi Wildlife Authority is a key partner, contributing endangered species for reintroduction efforts.
Future plans involve developing long-term management and action plans with stakeholders to ensure conservation success.
Sharaan’s unique geological features, holistic conservation approach, and community benefits set it apart.
RCU commits to protecting the Arabian Leopard, including captive breeding and reintroduction, and establishing a global conservation fund.
RCU plans to designate more protected areas in AlUla for conservation, aligning with broader environmental goals.
The project supports Vision 2030 by promoting environmental sustainability, creating conservation-based sectors, and fostering community engagement.
Arabian Leopard Programme & Fund
The Arabian leopard is classified as “Critically Endangered” by IUCN.
There are two key captive breeding programmes in the Arabian Peninsula, one in Sharjah in the UAE (Breeding Centre for Endangered Arabian Wildlife) and the other in Taif in Saudi Arabia (Prince Saud Al-Faisal Wildlife Research Centre [PSFWRC]), now under RCU’s management. RCU also funded the launch of the Arabian Leopard Fund, which now operates as a separate entity focused on the regional conservation of the Arabian leopard.
Plan Your Trip to AlUla
Absolutely, AlUla is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination.
AlUla International Airport (ULH) is the closest airport, offering both domestic and international flights.
You can reach AlUla by flying into AlUla International Airport, which is well-connected with major cities. Alternatively, you can drive from nearby cities like Medina or Tabuk.
Yes, AlUla is open to visitors from around the world. Tourists should adhere to local customs and regulations during their visit.
Absolutely, AlUla is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination.
While AlUla is close to Hegra, they are distinct sites. Hegra is a UNESCO World Heritage site within the AlUla region.
The cost varies based on travel style, accommodation choices, and activities. Planning in advance can help manage budgets effectively.
Journey Through Time
RCU’s mandate covers AlUla County in addition to Khaybar, Tayma, and AlMua’azam Fort. Constituting the most important part of AlUla’s development, the Journey Through Time masterplan is the first masterplan to be announced and RCU will announce more plans and projects in the future. The Journey Through Time Masterplan covers the core heritage area of AlUla and integrates AlUla’s most precious heritage sites.
Design Space AlUla
Design Space AlUla is a dynamic design centre and the first permanent space in the region dedicated to showcasing AlUla’s design initiatives. It serves as a gallery, archive, and workshop, encouraging creativity and innovation through exhibitions and collaborative programs.
You’ll find Design Space AlUla in AlJadidah Arts District, a lively area known for its blend of culture, cuisine, and creativity. In addition to exploring creative designs, visitors can enjoy artisanal coffee shops, gourmet dining, and a range of food trucks.