The Saudi Arabian festival takes flight from 6 to 15 November 2026.
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. Flights take place approximately between 6am and 7am, with transfers, a briefing and boarding beforehand.
Back on the ground, the Hot Air Balloon Glow Show will illuminate Hegra on 6 and 7 November 2026, before moving to Elephant Rock on 13 and 14 November 2026. Combining glowing balloons with music, lighting and projections, the show also features fire performers and aerial trapeze artists, building towards a choreographed finale.
For a gentler introduction to ballooning, head to Al Manshiyah. The Tethered Hot Air Balloon Experience – rising up to 50 metres above the ground – offers controlled ascents and panoramic views across AlUla’s rugged terrain, making it an appealing option for families and first-time riders.
There’s just as much reason to keep looking up after sunset. Stargazing at AlUla Fort runs on 6, 7 and 10 to 15 November 2026, from 7pm to 11pm. Five telescopes will help visitors explore planets and constellations, while a trained astronomer leads observations. A Rawi storyteller adds cultural context, connecting the celestial sights with local traditions.
Elsewhere, VOX Moonlight Cinema at Our Habitas AlUla will host screenings throughout the festival, offering another way to spend an evening outdoors. Husaak will also offer stargazing experiences and hikes beneath the stars, giving visitors a closer encounter with the desert after dark.
Those looking to slow the pace can book Sunset Stillness at Our Habitas AlUla. Taking place on 13 and 14 November 2026, from 5pm to 6pm, the sessions at Noosha Deck include guided meditation, sound immersion and Conscious Connected Breathwork.
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