The fun-filled festival is taking off in Saudi Arabia.
AlUla has long been one of Saudi Arabia’s most extraordinary destinations, but during AlUla Skies Festival 2026, the landscape takes on an even more dreamlike quality. Set against dramatic rock formations, ancient heritage sites and vast desert horizons, the festival celebrates the beauty of the skies above one of the region’s most remarkable settings. Running from 6 to 15 November 2026, here’s what you need to know about the fun festival.
Blending adventure, entertainment and astronomy, the event offers a programme that moves seamlessly from early morning thrills to unforgettable evenings under the stars. It is a fitting showcase for AlUla, which holds the distinction of being the Gulf’s first certified Dark Sky Reserve. With minimal light pollution and clear desert air, it provides a rare opportunity to experience the night sky in all its brilliance.
One of the festival’s biggest highlights is AlUla Skyrise, a shared hot air balloon journey that offers guests a striking view of the region from above. As dozens of balloons rise into the morning sky over the ancient landscapes of Hegra, visitors can enjoy sweeping panoramas and a new perspective on one of Saudi Arabia’s most visually arresting destinations. With limited availability, it promises to be one of the most sought-after experiences on the programme.
After sunset, attention turns to the Hot Air Balloon Glow Show, which combines light, fire and music in a dramatic night-time spectacle. Up to 12 tethered balloons illuminate the desert in synchronised displays, accompanied by projection mapping, soundscapes and acrobatic performances. Staged in two of AlUla’s most iconic locations, the experience is designed to transform the night sky into a theatrical backdrop.
For those looking for something gentler, the Tethered Hot Air Balloon Experience at AlManshiyah Plaza provides a family-friendly way to take in the scenery. Rising up to 50 metres above the ground, the attraction offers panoramic views across AlUla’s rugged terrain and is ideal for first-time balloon riders or anyone looking to capture memorable photographs.
The House of Constellations brings a more immersive and educational element to the festival. Hosted at the historic Old Town Amphitheatre, the experience includes interactive installations and a 360-degree planetarium that guides visitors through celestial stories and star-filled journeys. From there, guests can continue to the Old Town Fort, where Rawi guides help uncover the planets and constellations visible above AlUla.
Elsewhere, AlUla Helicopter Tours give visitors the opportunity to soar into the skies and see landmarks such as Elephant Rock, Maraya, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra.
Music also plays a central role in this year’s line-up. Nancy Ajram Live at AlUla Skies Festival will see the Arabic pop superstar perform in an open-air desert setting, bringing a selection of her best-known hits to one of the festival’s most anticipated evenings.
Visitors can also experience thrilling drone shows or get their hearts racing with the exhilarating Night Giant Swing and AlUla Stairway at Night experiences. These experiences are the first of their kind in the region and include a ladder suspended 45 metres in the air and a swing 85 metres above the ground.
It’s time to go up, up and away.
Where: AlUla Skies Festival, AlUla, Saudi Arabia
When: 6 to 15 November 2026
Contact: www.experiencealula.com