Al Ula offers a delightful blend of traditional Saudi flavors, locally sourced ingredients, and desert-inspired dining settings. While the options are more boutique and curated, visitors can still enjoy authentic dishes like kabsa, camel meat, and date-based desserts served with warm hospitality.
1. Taste traditional kabsa at Al Nakheel Restaurant
Why visit: A popular local restaurant offering hearty rice dishes in a relaxed oasis setting.
Highlights: – Lamb and chicken kabsa – Dates and Arabic coffee welcome – Open-air palm garden ambience
Timing: 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Entry: ₹1,000–1,600 for two (approx.)
2. Dine under the stars at Suhail Old Town
Why visit: A heritage dining experience in Al Ula Old Town offering Saudi fine dining with desert views.
Highlights: – Slow-cooked hashi (camel meat) – Qursan and jareesh – Rooftop seating with sunset views
Timing: 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Entry: ₹2,000–2,800 for two (approx.)
3. Try jareesh and qursan at Somewhere Restaurant
Why visit: This stylish spot offers traditional Saudi dishes in a contemporary presentation.
Highlights: – Modern takes on ancient dishes – Vegetarian-friendly options – Elegant indoor and outdoor seating
Timing: 12:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Entry: ₹1,800–2,400 for two (approx.)
4. Sip Arabic coffee and dates at Heart of Oasis
Why visit: Located amidst lush palm groves, this café offers an authentic Saudi coffee experience.
Highlights: – Locally grown dates – Spiced qahwa – Hammock and garden-style seating
Timing: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: ₹600–900 for two (approx.)
5. Indulge in lamb mandi at Merkaz Restaurant
Why visit: A casual local favorite for mandi, a flavorful rice dish cooked in a pit oven.
Highlights: – Lamb or chicken mandi – Served with salad and yogurt – Fast service, family-friendly
Timing: 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Entry: ₹800–1,200 for two (approx.)
6. Enjoy mutabbaq from a local stall in Al Ula Old Town
Why visit: A delicious stuffed pancake with savory or sweet fillings, perfect for a street food bite.
Highlights: – Beef, vegetable, or banana fillings – Crispy and freshly made – Great as an evening snack
Timing: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹150–300 per serving
7. Try local date desserts at Tomoor Al Ula
Why visit: Specializing in everything date-based, from smoothies to baked treats.
Highlights: – Date brownies, cookies, and tarts – Great with Arabic tea – Cozy local café vibe
Timing: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹400–800 for two (approx.)
8. Experience elevated dining at Daimumah Farm
Why visit: A farm-to-table restaurant offering dishes made from fresh produce grown onsite.
Highlights: – Organic Saudi dishes – Desert views and open-air setup – Guided garden walk
Timing: 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: ₹1,800–2,500 for two (approx.)
9. Snack on sambusas during Al Ula Moments
Why visit: During seasonal festivals, local vendors serve fried pastries stuffed with spiced meat or vegetables.
Highlights: – Popular Ramadan and festival snack – Served hot and crispy – Budget-friendly
Timing: Event evenings
Entry: ₹100–250 for a plate
10. Explore the culinary market at Winter Park
Why visit: A seasonal food zone with pop-up stalls offering a range of Saudi and regional bites.
Highlights: – Kabsa wraps, grilled skewers, sweets – Outdoor desert seating – Perfect evening spot
Timing: November to March, evenings
Entry: ₹300–700 per plate (approx.)
Feature Image Credit - Photo by Satishaa Javali on Unsplash
