What pops up in your mind when you hear or read, “Saudi Arabia”? The Kaaba in Mecca? The country’s conservative ways? Or perhaps you wonder whether Saudi Arabia would be a good travel destination, and if so, would the country be overwhelmingly “religious”? Given the initiatives of the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud (or MBS, as he is widely known) that have taken place in the past few years, the kingdom is experiencing an unprecedented transformation – from being an ultra-conservative country to one that is headed fast towards modernisation. When it comes to tourism, Saudi Arabia has relaxed its visa policy (although the US$50/RM220 fee is still steep for most people), and welcoming travellers from across the globe to the country. The young Crown Prince is showcasing to the world a “brand new” kingdom, one that is not just an oil-producing giant and religious hub, but also an exciting new travel destination that promises tons of surprises.
It is, in fact, a refreshing and timely change. Today, women are allowed to drive, attend major public events like football matches and concerts, while as far back as in 2018, cinemas were opened for the first time in more than three decades without gender-segregated seating. The history of AlUla oasis can be traced back to 2,000 years ago, during the ancient Nabataean civilisation.
In the past, the oasis was an important rail stop between Damascus in Syria and Madinah; it was also a commercial and cultural hub. —.