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About the city

Al Ula

Al Ula is known as one of the cities located in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, specifically to the western side of the Arabian Peninsula, and it is administratively affiliated to Al Madinah region, where it is approximately 300 kilometers from Al Madinah.

Yacout Al Hamwi mentioned Al Ula, as he said that "the prophet Mohammad, may Allah’s prayers and peace be upon him, came to it while he was heading for the Battle of Tabuk".

The area of the city of Al-Ula is estimated at 29,200 square kilometers, while its population is more than 65,000.

Since ancient times, this city is known as "Didan", and this name may be due to the presence of a mosque known as the Al 'Addam Mosque, but it later turned to the name of Al Ula due to the presence of two fresh water springs, Al Mo'alak and Ted'il, where high-rise palm trees spread, and therefore it was called Al Ula.

Al Ula is known for many titles, as it is known as the Bride of Mountains, and also the Capital of History and Monuments. These titles are due to its charming mountainous nature, being more than 700 meters above sea level, in addition to the many archaeological sites found there where many statues and temples found from 900 BC.

The people of the city depend heavily on agriculture due to the fertility of its lands and the abundance of its water, as well as it contains many running springs, which are estimated to forty springs, and the most important of which are: Al Shallal, Al 'adlia and Al Zahrah.

The Islamic city of Al Ula contains many Islamic monuments, which date back to the seventh year of migration and the most important of which are:

Madain Saleh: It dates back to the Nabataean civilization, and its monuments have been registered by UNESCO as a historical site.

Al Hejaz Railway Station: It is a group of stations located on Al Hijaz railway that connects it with the Levant through the city of Tabuk.

Al Hajar Islamic Castle: It is an Ottoman castle mentioned in Al Maqdisi novel, built by the Ottomans in 1375 AH / 985 CE with the aim of providing a break for pilgrims in the house of Allah.

Musa Bin Nusayr Castle: It was built by the Muslim leader Musa bin Nusayr on a highl mountain in the city center.

The Old City: It is the place known as the Deira.

Mahlab Al Naqa:  It is the remains of an ancient temple dating back to the Nabateans, The word "Al Naqa" means the camel of the prophet Saleh –peace be upon him-.

Almazham: It is a narrow and small corridor, believed to be the place where the camel of the Prophet Saleh was slaughtered.

Al Aswad Tombs: This name was known after the carved creatures that closely resemble lions.