If you’ve been living in Bahrain for a while, you know how to plan quick getaways. Usually, it’s a short trip to Dubai for shopping or a drive to Al Khobar for a change of scenery. But if you want something truly unique without spending twelve hours on a plane, AlUla in Saudi Arabia has become a popular destination lately.
There’s a new reason to make the trip across the causeway, or take a short flight, before winter ends. Hero Balloon Flights Saudi Arabia has introduced an afternoon flight and stargazing package, offering a different experience from the usual early morning hot air balloon rides.
Most people associate hot air balloons with sunrise. Watching the sun rise over the desert is beautiful, but it means getting out of bed while it’s still dark. The new Afternoon Flight is a great choice for those who aren’t morning people.
By launching later in the day, the light hits the canyons and those famous Nabataean tombs in a different way. When the sun is higher, the colours of the rock formations are much more vibrant. You see deep oranges and reds that look stunning in photos, but are even more impressive in real life. You float at about 4,000 feet, which allows you to appreciate the 200,000-year-old history beneath you while also catching details in the landscape.
The flight is just part of the experience. Once you’re back on solid ground, the adventure continues in the Sharaan Nature Reserve. If you haven’t been, Sharaan feels like stepping onto a movie set.
They trade the balloon basket for Land Rover Defenders to explore the valleys and canyons. It’s an adventurous way to experience the time-crafted wonders, rocks shaped by wind and sand over millennia, up close.
For food lovers, the evening concludes with a four-course dinner inspired by a South African braai. A braai is a high-end social barbecue featuring open flames and slowly cooked meats. It reflects the dining style you’d find on an upscale safari, fitting perfectly with the desert atmosphere.
The afternoon and stargazing sessions are a limited-time offer, running only until 14 February 2026. With AlUla becoming such a global attraction, these slots fill up quickly, especially for private bookings.
One exciting addition is the option for a nocturnal eco-walk. After dinner, you can venture into the quiet of the reserve to see what the desert looks like under the stars. With virtually no light pollution, the stargazing here is among the best in the region.
If you’re planning a trip, here’s what to expect:
Whether you’re there for the heights or the peace of the desert stars, this is a great way to experience a side of Saudi Arabia that many people haven’t seen yet.
READ MORE: The Weekend Guide: 13 Things To Check Out in Bahrain
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