During a recent visit to the Kingdom, the heir to the British throne, Charles, Prince of Wales and his entourage, were deeply impressed by their trip to the archaeological sites at Al-Ula and Madain Saleh. The British Crown Prince emphasized the beauty of the sites, coining them as outstanding tourist attractions, and a milestone on the world tourism map.

The Prince of Wales was escorted by Saudi royalty, with President of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA) Prince Sultan bin Salman, and Madinah Gov. Prince Faisal bin Salman at his side. The party also visited the archaeological sites of Khuraymah and the historical oasis of Dadan as well and Mount Akmah. Prince Charles was also briefed on various features of these spots, so rich in heritage and tradition, while guests toured around the facades of Nabatean buildings.

Tourism experts expressed their satisfaction that Prince Charles’ visit to Al-Ula and Madain Saleh underscored the uniqueness and historical significance of the tourist site.

“The uniqueness of the sites lies in the fact that they date back to the sixth millennium BC. Al-Ula, lying on the ancient caravan route of spice traders, also served as a meeting point of several ancient civilizations which left indelible marks on the site,” Madinah historian and researcher Tnaidib Al-Fayedi, told Asharq Al-Awsat.

Another history researcher, Muhammad Al-Harbi, also highlighted the area’s rich tradition and archaeology. “The diversity of the monuments at Madain Saleh and Al-Ula makes them a remarkable tourist attraction. The repository of heritage and archaeological uniqueness of rock facades of Madain Saleh, historical monuments at the Khuraybah and architectural heritage of the old town in Al-Ula, are all features of this diversity,” Al-Harbi pointed out.

Former chief at SCTA’s Al-Ula branch, Motleq Al-Motleq, believed one of the main factors contributing to make these archaeological sites stand out, is their international recognition. “The efforts made by the SCTA to preserve the historical sites of Al-Ula and Madain Saleh, including their introduction and registration on the list of World Heritage Committee of the United Nations Scientific and Cultural Organization, has contributed a lot to making them major tourist attractions,” Al-Motleq said.

The Madain Saleh (Hijr) area is a sweet spot on the eternal passage of time, that will take away the visitor’s breath. Any passer-by would be enticed by the rich history filled with features of antiquity and the elegance of the ancient past.

In Madain Saleh the lineament of time is concealed by lofty mountains painted with brilliant colors. It is on the sides of those mountains that visitors can read what the men of the ancient Arabian peninsula noted down.