| IATA Code | ULH |
| ICAO Code | OEAO |
| City | AlUla |
| Distance to City Centre | 25 km |
| Status | International |
| Annual Passengers | Capacity: 400,000 pax |
| Flight Schedule | Please check official resources for details |
The transport infrastructure in the region is actively developing; however, given the desert landscape and the specific nature of the resort, transport options here differ from typical metropolises. The airport is located approximately 25–35 minutes by car from the city centre and major hotels. The road passes through picturesque landscapes, so your journey begins immediately upon exiting the terminal.
Below are the main ways to reach your destination:
This is the most common and convenient option for tourists in AlUla. Most local resorts (such as Habitas, Banyan Tree, or Shaden) offer guest pick-up services.
For those wishing to explore the region independently and not depend on tour schedules, renting a car is the ideal choice. Distances between attractions (Hegra, Jabal Ikmah, Old Town) can be significant.
It is important to note that a classic public transport system (scheduled buses, metro, or trains) linking the airport to the city is currently absent. AlUla is an exclusive tourist destination focused on individualised service.
Within the tourism cluster itself, special tourist shuttles (hop-on hop-off) operate between attractions, but they do not serve the route from the airport.
A parking zone for short-term and long-term parking is equipped within the airport complex. The parking is within walking distance of the terminal, which is convenient for those dropping off passengers or leaving a rental car before departure.
Since direct flights to AlUla can be seasonal or limited, many travellers choose to fly into larger neighbouring cities, combining the trip with a road trip through Saudi Arabia.
Nearest airports:
Also within reach (though significantly further and in another country) is Marsa Alam International Airport, however, this option requires crossing the Red Sea and borders, so it is rarely used as a transit point specifically for travel to AlUla.
Prince Abdul Majeed bin Abdulaziz Airport (ULH) stands apart from giant international hubs due to its intimacy and thoughtful ergonomics. It is a modern boutique airport where the structure is subordinated to the idea of maximum comfort and stress-free travel. The complex is designed so that the journey from the aircraft steps to the city exit takes minimal time.
The airport infrastructure is divided into two key functional facilities serving different categories of passengers:
The main terminal has a simple linear structure where it is practically impossible to get lost. Navigation here is intuitive, and all signs are duplicated in English and Arabic.
Arrivals Zone:
Located on the ground level. After disembarking (usually via an aerobridge or apron bus), passengers enter the passport control area. Immigration counters operate here for international flights. After clearing control, you immediately enter the baggage claim hall where the baggage belts are located. The terminal exit is just a few dozen metres from the baggage carousel.
Departures Zone:
The entrance to the departures zone is equipped with initial screening systems. Inside, there is a spacious check-in hall with dedicated counters for various airlines (Saudia, flynas, flydubai, etc.). After checking in luggage, passengers undergo pre-flight security screening and enter the "airside" waiting area (Gate Area).
The main feature of AlUla Airport is the absence of long walks, trains, or shuttles between gates. The entire passenger journey is logical and compact.
Thanks to the airport's compactness, procedures here are faster than in major Saudi cities, yet security standards are strictly observed.
AlUla Airport is one of the most tourist-friendly. You won't need a terminal map: all key points (toilets, prayer rooms, cafes, car rental counters) are within sight. If you have questions, airport staff generally speak good English and are ready to assist.
The history of AlUla's air gateway is a clear example of how quickly regional infrastructure can transform when it becomes part of a global strategy. The airport has journeyed from a modest runway for domestic flights to an award-winning international terminal in less than a decade.
Foundation and Early Years (2011)
The official birth date of the airport is considered to be 2011. Initially, it was built to serve the needs of the local population and rare travellers heading to the northwestern part of Saudi Arabia. At that time, it was a small regional airfield receiving flights exclusively from the Kingdom's major cities — Riyadh, Jeddah, and Medina. The infrastructure was basic, designed for a flow of about 100,000 passengers per year.
Era of Change: Vision 2030 Strategy
A key turning point in the airport's history came with the establishment of the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU). Under the national "Vision 2030" programme, it was decided to turn the region into the world's largest living open-air museum. The old terminal ceased to meet the ambitious plans to welcome millions of tourists, and massive reconstruction began.
Massive Modernisation (2019–2021)
In 2019, a global renovation project for the airport was launched. The task was not just to increase the area, but to create a building that would itself become a landmark. Major changes included:
Gaining International Status
One of the most significant milestones in ULH's history was March 2021, when the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) officially approved the reception of international flights. This opened AlUla to the world. Shortly thereafter, the airport welcomed its first direct flights from Dubai (flydubai) and Paris, cementing its status as an international gateway to Arabian history.
Interesting Facts and Achievements
AlUla Airport (ULH) positions itself as a "boutique airport". You won't find endless labyrinths of Duty Free shops or noisy food courts typical of giant hubs here. Instead, the space is organised to ensure maximum comfort, silence, and exclusive service befitting the region's resorts.
Despite its compact size, the terminal is equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight.
The dining and retail zone in the airport is small but carefully curated to introduce guests to local flair before heading into the city or to allow for souvenir shopping before departure.
Given that AlUla is a luxury destination, infrastructure for premium passengers is developed to a high standard.
The airport is fully covered by a high-speed internet network, allowing you to stay connected anywhere in the terminal.
To handle monetary matters upon arrival or before departure, basic services are provided in the terminal.
Passenger safety and health are a priority for the airport administration.
Saudi Arabia is traditionally friendly to family travellers. The airport provides:
Following reconstruction, the terminal has become fully adapted for People of Determination (passengers with disabilities):
It is important to consider that there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds or within walking distance. The terminal is located in a desert area, remote from residential zones.
The nearest accommodation options are located in the tourist zones of AlUla (approximately 25–40 minutes by transfer or taxi):
Passengers with long layovers or early departures are recommended to book a transfer from their hotel in advance, as there is nowhere to sleep in the terminal itself.
There is no full-scale business centre with conference halls for mass events inside the passenger terminal. Business meetings are usually held either in the VIP halls of the executive terminal or in hotel conference centres and the famous mirrored Maraya Concert Hall, which is a 30-minute drive from the airport.
The gastronomic concept of Prince Abdul Majeed bin Abdulaziz Airport (ULH) fully reflects its status as a boutique hub. You won't find noisy food courts with familiar fast food here. Instead, passengers are offered cosy coffee shops and lounge areas where the focus is on product quality, a calm atmosphere, and an introduction to Arabian hospitality.
Important note: in accordance with Saudi Arabian law, alcohol is neither sold nor served at the airport (as in the entire country). The word "bar" here refers to juice bars (juices and smoothies) or coffee stations.
Most establishments are concentrated in the Departures Zone (Airside), after passing passport control and security. This allows passengers to relax while waiting for their flight with a cup of coffee and a view of the runway and desert landscapes.
Even if you have little time, do not miss the opportunity to taste the local specialities for which the AlUla region is famous.
The airport strives to meet the needs of various categories of travellers, although the choice of specialised food may be limited due to the small size of the terminal.
The pricing policy at ULH airport corresponds to the average level of international airports — prices here are higher than in the city, but product quality is maintained at a high level.
Travelling through AlUla Airport (ULH) is part of your desert adventure. Although the airport is small and modern, knowing a few nuances will help make your departure or arrival as comfortable as possible and save you from unnecessary stress.
Although the airport is called "boutique", do not underestimate the time needed to complete formalities.
Flying into or out of AlUla is a true aerial excursion. Don't miss the chance to see stunning landscapes.
To save time, use digital services.
Saudi Arabia has strict rules for importing and exporting items, which also apply to hand luggage.
When crossing the border, be attentive to limits on importing and exporting valuables.
If AlUla is a transfer point (which is rare; it is usually the final destination), consider the following:
Since the airport is small, leisure options are limited, but you can pass the time comfortably.
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