The reopening comes after a three year hiatus for extensive restoration.
After three years were spent restoring and conserving the stone and mudbrick buildings of AlUla Old Town, the town has reopened for visitors. The area is now a year round tourism precinct, reopening with four new eateries, a souq, entertainment and a handicraft pavilion.
The Old Town was established in the 12th century, with regular inhabitants until the 1980s when the town was left as a heritage site for visitors and the local community. The site was closed in 2017 as the environment began to show signs of dilapidation.
Restoration efforts, in line with UNESCO principles and standards, have repaired the town's cherished Tantora Wall and a number of homes and mosques. The final phase of the restoration commenced in November 2019 and has now been completed, ready to welcome back visitors.
Chief destination management and marketing officer at the Royal Commission for AlUla, Phillip Jones, commented: "AlUla Old Town is an important chapter in AlUla?s journey through time. The site is key to the understanding, continuity, and evolution of the historic routes for trade and pilgrimage that made AlUla such a significant destination until the 20th century as it is for visitors again today."
Visitors can now enjoy the Incense Road, lined with produce, arts and crafts, fashion and souvenir markets, and open air eateries showcasing traditional Saudi food, or book a deep-dive tour into the town's history and landmarks.
AlUla Old Town is free for visitors.
