Roomer

Banyan Tree Alula

AlUla, Saudi Arabia
$800-1500/ night

Book this if You want the ultimate 'Dune' fantasy experience with total privacy and don't mind paying a premium for silence.

Why People Love It

  • The 'Rock Pool' sandwiched between two massive cliffs (when it's open)
  • Villas are actual tented structures that feel like a permanent Bedouin encampment
  • Views of the Maraya concert hall reflecting the desert are surreal

Quick Take: It's visually spectacular and dead silent, but the service can be slow (buggy waits) and the famous rock pool is frequently closed for safety.

Reviewed by @KimsBigWorld: I’ve never felt so small yet so pampered. Swimming in that infinity pool with the canyon walls towering over me was a spiritual experience. It’s quiet, vast, and utterly luxurious. Definitely a bucket-list stay for disconnecting.

Guest Who Stayed Here Said

The hype

Guests are blown away by the architecture and the 'fairytale' landscape but often feel the service speed doesn't match the $1,000+ price tag.

Reality check

You will spend a lot of time waiting for buggies to take you to breakfast or the spa.

  • You crave absolute silence and privacy
  • You want to take photos that look like a movie set
  • You are okay with a dry (alcohol-free) vacation

Cleanliness & Maintenance

9.7
  • Housekeeping: Impeccable. Twice daily service is standard and thorough.
  • Bathroom hygiene: Spotless. Stone surfaces are well-maintained, no grout issues reported.
  • Maintenance: Generally excellent, though some minor wear (scratches) noted on newer villa furniture.
  • Linens & towels: High thread count, crisp, and replaced generously.
  • Odors & scents: Signature Banyan Tree essential oils (lemongrass/Thai herbs) scent the room.

Sleepability™

9SILENT
SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
  • AC unit hum
  • Occasional wind flapping the outer tent canvas

Before you book

Good to know

  • Breakfast is often not included in the base rate and costs ~200 SAR ($53) per person.
  • The resort is 15km from Hegra and 20 mins from Old Town; you are isolated here.
  • There is a mandatory 'Gala Dinner' fee on New Year's Eve (~2100 SAR/person).

What to pack

  • Moisturizer and lip balm (the desert air is incredibly dry)
  • Layers (nights drop to 50°F/10°C even in shoulder seasons)
  • Hiking boots for the trails—sand gets everywhere in sneakers

Room Genie

Best picks

  • Dune One Bedroom Pool Villa (standard but stunning)
  • Villa 214 (specifically noted by editors for great privacy and views)
  • Villas facing the Maraya concert hall for the best sunset reflections

Rooms to avoid

  • Villas near the main reception/road if you want total isolation
  • Pool-less villas (the public pool is far and might be closed)

Room Request Genie – copy & paste

“I would love a Dune One Bedroom Pool Villa with a direct view of the Maraya building if possible. We prefer a unit further from the main road for maximum quiet.”

FAQ & Hidden tips

Everything you actually want to know before you book.

Is there alcohol?

No. The entire property is dry. Mocktails are available but expensive.

Can unmarried couples stay together?

Yes, for foreign tourists. Saudi nationals still need to provide proof of marriage.

Is the pool heated?

Yes, private villa pools are temperature-controlled, which is essential for cool desert nights.

How do I get around?

You must use the resort's buggy service. Walking is difficult due to distances and sand.

Is it kid-friendly?

Technically yes, but the main Rock Pool is 18+ and the vibe is very adult/quiet. Kids might be bored.

How far is the airport?

About 45-50 minutes by car. Transfers can be arranged for a fee.

Insider Tips

  • ✨

    Book your dinner at Saffron (Thai restaurant) well in advance; it's the best food on property and fills up.

  • ✨

    Ask for a villa with a 'fire pit' experience—they will set up a fire for you at night.

  • ✨

    The 'Oasis Trail' is a free and beautiful 3km walk nearby if you want a break from the resort bubble.

5 things to know before you go

  • 💡The 'Rock Pool' closes frequently due to falling rock hazards—don't base your whole trip on it.

  • 💡A simple mocktail will cost you about $20 USD.

  • 💡The 'buggy wait' is the #1 complaint; order it 20 minutes before you actually need to leave.

  • 💡You are essentially in a canyon, so cell service can be spotty in certain pockets (WiFi is good though).

  • 💡The 'Gala Dinner' on Dec 31st is mandatory and costs over $500 per person.

Local Playbook

Map

See where Banyan Tree Alula is located and what's nearby.

Key amenities & services