Photos: Al Diwan at Madain Saleh

I was supposed to post these photos of Al Diwan at Madain Saleh long ago, but I got so busy at work. And I also had to do some research on my trip to Bahrain and UAE (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain). Now that I’m back, I just realized that there are still two posts I have to do from our camping trip at Madain Saleh.

So, don’t skip the Al Diwan (court/meeting place) when visiting the huge Madain Saleh. Yes, I know, it’s just a big hole carved out of the sandstone, but there’s more to it than that impressive entrance.

The Nabatean rulers held court orders and meeting here.

Right beside the Al Diwan, there’s a Siq (canyon) that leads up to other important historical marks sites around the area.

And yes, it leads to more tombs.

There are also several sacrificial altars here where animals were killed as offerings to appease deities.

They’re tiny altars but impressively built/carved on rocks.

You’ll find ancient Nabatean writings, too.

The views begin to change as you continue your trek up the solid mountainous rocks.

Rocks have turned into massive sculptures through time and weathering.

They look like sleeping giants.

The canyons are deep, and one false step will reward your death.

But once you’re up there on top of the rocks, the breathtaking view of this UNESCO World Heritage Site is something you’d never thought about seeing in Saudi Arabia.

Sit back and drink in the views.

HOTEL IN AL-ULA

Do you want to enjoy swimming in a pool while glamping in the middle of a desert? Habitas Al-Ula will surely wow you! Or do you want to stay in a caravan with 5-star amenities and service? The staff at Caravan by Habitas are waiting for your presence. For more great accommodations at Al Ula, you can find them here.

Things to do in Al Ula

There are a few things you can do in Al Ula. You can visit Madain Saleh, The Elephant Rock, the canyon, or go mountain climbing. Or, if you just want to chill, you can always sit around a campfire and drink tea while enjoying your shisha. And don’t forget to marvel at the shimmering beauty of the Maraya Concert Hall – dubbed as the largest mirrored building in the world by the Guinness World of Records.