Can You Live for Less Than 1000 USD in the City of Al-Ula?

If you’re looking for a city where you can live for less than 1000 USD per month, then Al-Ula in Saudi Arabia could be a viable option. Al-Ula is a small city located in the northwest of Saudi Arabia with a population of around 7,000, and the city offers an affordable cost of living compared to many other cities in the world. But is it possible to live comfortably in Al-Ula on a budget of 1000 USD or less? In this blog post, we’ll delve into the cost of living in Al-Ula and examine whether it’s possible to live on that budget in this city.

Cost of Living in Al-Ula

Al-Ula is one of the most affordable places to live in Saudi Arabia, and the cost of living in the city is relatively low compared to other cities. According to the Numbeo cost of living index, the cost of living in Al-Ula is 59.65% lower than Dubai, the commercial hub of the Middle East, which is a popular destination for expats.The most significant expenses for any individual or family in Al-Ula are accommodation, food, and transportation. However, Al-Ula is a small town, and the choices for accommodation, transportation, and food are limited.

Accommodation

Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses in any city, but Al-Ula offers several affordable housing options. The average cost of rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Al-Ula is around 450 USD per month. You can find cheaper options in the outskirts of the city. Sharing accommodation with a roommate can also be an option to lower the rental cost.

Food and Groceries

Food and groceries also constitute a significant expense for any individual or family. Vacationers can save money by cooking their food at home rather than eating at restaurants frequently. Additionally, this city has several food stores with low prices, including the local Aswak market and Tamam Hypermarket within the city.

Transportation

Transportation costs vary considerably depending on your daily travel and the transport modes. This small town is connected through a public bus system; rides in these buses cost around 0.4 USD one way. Rental cars are also available for rent ranging from 17 USD to 37 USD daily. On the other hand, taxi rides are very low priced, with a standard fare of around 3 USD per ride.

Entertainment

Al-Ula has much to offer adventure-seekers with incredible rock formations and historic sites. This city is home to several outdoor spots, including Jabal Ikmah, Al-Ain Oasis, and Madain Saleh. The admission fee to most parks and location is low since the city is keen to attract tourism. Local events and festivals highlight Al-Ula’s dynamic cultural heritage and add extra value to the traveller’s experience.

Conclusion

In summary, it is possible to live on a budget of 1000 USD or less in Al-Ula. This small city offers affordable accommodation, transport and reasonable grocery store prices, creating affordable lifestyle options. Al-Ula promises a unique experience with its beautiful landscape and rich cultural heritage, all of which make it an attractive option for tourists and the adventurous types looking to live on a budget.Despite this, we advise you to be cautious while making travel arrangements to Saudi Arabia due to the ongoing pandemic. Ensure you follow guidelines set out by your government and the destination country. Overall, we hope this article has been informative in assessing the financial requirements of life in Al-Ula.

Insider’s Guide to Al-Ula: Living in a Desert Oasis

Al-Ula is a hidden gem located in the Northwestern province of Saudi Arabia. This city offers a truly unique experience, with stunning desert landscapes, historical sites, and an authentic Arabian cultural experience. Many wonder if it’s possible to live in Al-Ula for less than 1000 USD per month, so we take a closer look.

Living Costs in Al-Ula

Yes, it’s entirely possible to live in Al-Ula for less than 1000 USD per month, excluding rent. The cost of living is relatively low, especially when compared to the Western world. A meal in a budget restaurant can cost as little as 3 USD, while groceries for a week can be purchased for 40-50 USD. Public transportation is not a convenient option, but taxis are readily available and affordable.

Local Attractions

Al-Ula is home to a myriad of historical attractions, including Madain Saleh, an ancient city carved into rock, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Exploring the ruins of Al-Ula’s mud-brick city, Dadan, is another essential experience. Experience Saudi Arabian culture with a visit to the Al-Ula old town, known as Al-Ula Balad, which features traditional architecture, shops, and restaurants.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the city offers many opportunities for hiking and camping. Hike through the stunning rock formations in Elephant Rock and Jabal al-Fil to watch the sunset casting beautiful colors over vast desert terrain.

Dining Spots

Al-Ula is located in an area abundant in date palms, which makes for the perfect opportunity to try dates straight from the palm tree. For traditional Arab cuisine, head down to the local food markets in Al-Ula Balad which offer affordable options. Al-Ula also has several upscale restaurants which offer both local and international dishes. If you are looking for an upscale romantic dinner, don’t miss The Roof lounge.

Cultural Experiences

Al-Ula is known for its rich cultural heritage, with traditional Souqs throughout the city selling handmade dress fabrics, pottery, spices, and other local goods. The annual Winter at Tantora Festival is a popular cultural event that showcases regional music, cuisine, and arts. Other cultural experiences include a visit to the Najmat Al-Ula Souvenir Shop and the Al-Ula Museum.

Local History

Al-Ula’s history dates back thousands of years, with many civilizations leaving their mark on the city. The Al-Ula Old Town Trail is a walking tour filled with ancient landmarks that provide a glimpse into Al-Ula’s history. Notably, Madain Saleh, an ancient city known for its impressive rock-cut tombs, is considered one of the most significant ancient sites in Saudi Arabia.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For tourists seeking an adventure, Al-Ula has some unforgettable experiences. Take a Hot Air Balloon ride and enjoy a birds-eye view of the stunning desert landscape from above. You can also rent a quad bike and ride through the scenic Wadi Al-Qura, the famous Sharaan Nature Reserve.

In conclusion, Al-Ula is a budget-friendly destination that offers a unique cultural, historical, and outdoor experience that any tourist would not want to miss. With the information provided in this insider’s guide, you can make the most of your experience while living in Al-Ula for less than 1000 USD per month.