Saudi Arabia’s AlUla Secures Top Honors at The 2025 World Travel Awards, Cementing its Place as a Global Cultural Powerhouse with Unrivaled Heritage and Monumental Attractions

Published on December 28, 2025

At the 2025 World Travel Awards, Saudi Arabia’s AlUla cemented its status as a global cultural powerhouse by winning first place in several important categories. This accomplishment was greatly aided by the city’s extraordinary history, which is exemplified by UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Hegra and its stunning desert scenery. In addition to drawing tourists from all over the world, AlUla’s distinctive fusion of ancient history, first-rate hospitality, and exciting cultural events—like the well-known AlUla Moments celebration—has established new standards for cultural tourism. This accolade solidifies AlUla’s position as a must-see location for travelers looking for an unmatched, immersive, and historic trip.

AlUla, Saudi Arabia’s ancient desert gem, has been crowned the recipient of the prestigious title at the 2025 World Travel Awards, marking a significant milestone in its journey to global recognition. The city emerged as the top winner after securing the highest number of votes from an esteemed panel of international experts, senior executives, specialist travel buyers, leading tour operators, and established travel agents.

The World Travel Awards, founded in 1993, are globally regarded as the ultimate benchmark of excellence within the travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors. This year, AlUla’s victory in this highly competitive arena solidifies its status as one of the leading cultural tourism destinations worldwide. The city’s triumph was not limited to a single award; AlUla also earned recognition as the Middle East’s Leading Cultural Tourism Project 2025, Middle East’s Leading Festival & 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 ancient heritage, AlUla boasts some of the most significant cultural landmarks in the region, including Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site is home to a collection of meticulously preserved Nabataean tombs, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the ancient world. These awe-inspiring structures, along with AlUla’s vast natural beauty, have captivated travelers from around the globe, making it a top choice for those seeking a unique cultural experience.

AlUla’s history is nothing short of remarkable. Spanning 200,000 years, it is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited regions. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of human history that defines this exceptional destination. From the early human settlements to the powerful civilizations that once thrived here, AlUla offers a window into the past that is both enlightening and awe-inspiring.

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has played a pivotal role in bringing the city’s history to life through a series of immersive experiences. These experiences provide visitors with the opportunity to explore the depth of AlUla’s cultural heritage, with exhibitions and guided tours that highlight the ancient ruins, petroglyphs, and archaeological sites scattered across the region. These efforts have not only preserved AlUla’s past but have also made it accessible to a new generation of travelers.

Beyond its cultural significance, AlUla is renowned for its world-class hospitality, ensuring that visitors enjoy an exceptional stay in this extraordinary setting. The city’s accommodations range from luxury resorts to boutique hotels, all offering breathtaking views of the desert landscapes. The hospitality in AlUla is known for its blend of modern amenities and traditional Arabian charm, providing guests with a truly unforgettable experience.

AlUla’s vibrant cultural scene is another key factor that has contributed to its international acclaim. The city hosts an array of events, festivals, and art exhibitions throughout the year, making it a year-round destination for cultural tourism. The AlUla Moments celebration, a highlight of the city’s event calendar, brings together international artists, musicians, and performers in a dazzling display of creativity and talent. These events not only celebrate AlUla’s heritage but also showcase its commitment to fostering creativity and artistic expression.

With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and dynamic cultural offerings, AlUla has firmly established itself as one of the leading cultural tourism destinations in the world. Its success at the 2025 World Travel Awards is a testament to the city’s continuous growth and its dedication to preserving its cultural heritage while embracing the future. As AlUla continues to evolve, it is poised to become an even more prominent fixture on the global tourism map, offering travelers an unmatched blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

AlUla’s victory at the 2025 World Travel Awards solidifies its status as a global cultural powerhouse, driven by its exceptional heritage, including UNESCO sites like Hegra, and its unmatched blend of history, beauty, and cultural events.

For those seeking an immersive cultural experience, AlUla stands as an unparalleled destination, one that invites visitors to journey through time while experiencing the best of Arabian hospitality and artistic expression. With its rich past, vibrant present, and promising future, AlUla is set to remain a top choice for travelers around the world for years to come.