Habitas, the rapidly expanding global eco‑hospitality group, has opened a new travel experience in AlUla, a remote and historically rich region in northwestern Saudi Arabia. With a human legacy that stretches back some 200,000 years, AlUla and the nearby lost city of Hegra—now a UNESCO World Heritage site—are open to international visitors for the first time since October 2020. Until recently, visits to Hegra were highly restricted: fewer than 5,000 Saudi residents visited annually and foreign travelers needed special government permission, granted to under 1,000 people each year.
© Kleinjan Groenewald
In March 2022, Habitas launched Caravan by Habitas, its first immersive glamping concept designed for travelers seeking adventure, surprise and meaningful human connection. Caravan AlUla extends the brand’s commitment to experience-led hospitality and environmentally conscious design. The site uses Airstreams as guest accommodations, showcasing Habitas’ sustainable approach and its ability to place guests in extraordinary, carefully chosen landscapes.
The property comprises 22 chic Airstream caravans, each positioned to offer a distinct scenic outlook. Every unit features a private outdoor deck, air conditioning, Wi‑Fi, and flexible bedding (a queen bed or two singles). Interiors include an indoor lounge, a kitchenette stocked with snacks, and a private shower and bathroom. Thoughtful touches enhance comfort and entertainment: disco lighting and a sound system, curated reading material, Theragun massagers and scalp massagers are among the amenities designed to surprise and delight guests.
© Kleinjan Groenewald
The layout and communal spaces draw inspiration from the Bedouin caravans that once traveled the region’s ancient incense routes. The Airstreams are arranged in a U shape around a central Gathering Tent where guests can meet, relax, play and share stories. Interior styling nods to traditional Saudi living rooms, incorporating colorful antiques and local craft traditions to create warm, culturally resonant spaces.
After dark, a large fire pit with circular seating invites guests to sit beneath a sky full of stars. Caravan AlUla follows Habitas’ six programming pillars—music, wellness, adventure, culture, learning and culinary—offering a curated calendar of cultural talks, live performances, interactive art installations and hands‑on adventure programming. Signature activities include Canyon Crossing, Desert Trekking, Arabian Horse Treks, Stargazing and practical Desert Survival Skills workshops.
© Kleinjan Groenewald
Guests can explore the surrounding area on off‑road electric bikes and access additional facilities at Thuraya Wellness, which is located three to five minutes away at the main Habitas AlUla property. Thuraya Wellness offers an alchemy bar, treatment rooms, a fitness center, an outdoor wellness agora and yoga classes. Unique programming there includes the Bedouin Sound Sensorama, the Desert Clay Circle ceremony and candlelit stargazing yoga sessions.
Beyond AlUla, Habitas operates experiential sites in Tulum and Bacalar in Mexico and in Namibia. Additional locations, including properties in Bhutan, Los Cabos, San Miguel, Santa Teresa and Todos Santos, are slated to open in the near future, expanding Habitas’ global network of purpose‑driven, design‑forward hospitality experiences.