AlUla is on its way to becoming one of the most popular getaways outside of Riyadh. Not only is it home to a UNESCO heritage site, but it has preserved the history and culture of the area, while also bringing a touch of razzle-dazzle to the desert.
One way they’ve been achieving this is by hosting amazing concerts inside its spectacular, shimmering concert hall, Maraya. They have already hosted big names, from Lebanese star Hiba Tawaji to Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli. Here’s your guide to the upcoming concerts in AlUla.
Abdulrahman Mohamed
Home-grown Saudi talent Abdulrahman Mohamed has gone from competing in TV talent shows to creating a career that has spanned more than 17 years. The talented artist is a composer, singer and documentary filmmaker, and will be showing off his skills in AlUla.
January 7.
Andrea Bocelli
Crowd-favourite Andrea Bocelli will wow his Saudi fans for the fourth time. Andrea Bocelli is a beloved tenor across the world and his voice is truly remarkable. Bocelli has sold more than 75 million albums worldwide, and this is a rare chance to see a global legend perform in one of the country’s most stunning concert halls.
January 21.
Candlelit Classics at Hegra
The Candlelit Classics at Hegra is set to be one of the most magical experiences in the bunch. Taking place outdoors in slap bang in the middle of the desert, you’ll have the chance to admire the beauty of UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra, lit up with candles at night. Then all you have to do is relax, and let Stefan Lombard serenade you with short musical pieces.
December 24 & 31.
Cheb Khaled
The legendary Algerian singer, Cheb Khaled, performed a set in the capital as a part of Riyadh Season in November and is now heading to AlUla this December. Khaled began his career when he was only 14 years old, as he founded a band that went on to perform at nightclubs and weddings. From there, he went on to be one of the biggest names in music.
December 17.
Lena Chamamyan
Lena, a Syrian-Armenian soprano, is promising her Saudi audience an amazing night. Listen to her angelic voice in her upcoming concert called The Road to the Sun. The orchestra is led by Armenian Russian maestro, Alexandr Iradiyan. Chamamyan says, “I am proud to perform my first concert in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the crossroads of ancient civilisations in AlUla, and of course at Maraya. This is such a unique venue of beautiful architecture and great musical programming.”
December 10.
Majida Roumi
Lebanese soprano and actor, Magida El Roumi, has gone from the humble talent show, Studio El Fan, to a singing superstar. She has released an impressive 2,000 songs, but is clearly not just a pretty voice, as she is also a UN Goodwill Ambassador.
January 28.