Cost of Living in AlUla: 2026 Budget Guide

Oct 28, 2026•3 min read

AlUla (العلا) in the Madinah region has grown from a quiet heritage town into one of Saudi Arabia's most talked-about destinations. If you're considering moving here or budgeting for an extended stay, it helps to know what daily life actually costs. In this guide, سعودي ليفنج breaks down the realistic monthly expenses for one person, covering housing, utilities, food, and dining out, so you can plan with confidence.

Monthly budget at a glance

A single person living in AlUla can expect to spend roughly SAR 4,475 per month, including rent and utilities. This figure covers the essentials of a comfortable, modest lifestyle and offers a solid starting point for your planning. Your actual costs will vary depending on your housing choice, how often you eat out, and your personal habits.

Housing and rent

Accommodation is the single largest expense for most residents. A central one-bedroom apartment in AlUla costs around SAR 1,924 per month. Prices can shift based on location, the age of the building, and proximity to key areas.

Central one-bedroom apartment: around SAR 1,924/month
Larger or two-bedroom units will cost more, especially in newer developments

Because there is no verified official 2026 rent schedule for AlUla, treat these as general guidance and confirm current listings directly before signing any lease.

Utilities

For a shared 85 m² two-bedroom apartment housing two people, utilities average around SAR 383 per month. This typically covers electricity, water, and related services. Your bill will fluctuate with the seasons, particularly in summer when cooling costs climb. For exact tariffs, always check your official utility provider.

Groceries and everyday food

Monthly groceries for one person come to roughly SAR 750. Shopping at local markets and buying seasonal produce can help you keep this figure down, while imported and specialty items push it higher.

Monthly groceries (one person): around SAR 750
Flatbread from Old Town food stalls: from about SAR 3

Dining out

AlUla has a growing dining scene that ranges from humble heritage stalls to polished restaurants. Here's what to expect:

Mid-range three-course dinner for two: around SAR 139
Main dishes at many restaurants: SAR 80–180
Café Hegra (near the Hegra visitor-centre area): SAR 25–60 per item
Old Town flatbread stalls: from about SAR 3

Lunch service generally runs around 12:00–16:00 and dinner around 19:00–00:00, though individual venues set their own hours.

Old Town hours and experiences

The historic Old Town is a central part of AlUla life and tourism. It generally opens between 8:00 and 9:00, with shops commonly staying open until 23:00 and restaurants until about 01:00. Visitor experiences here start at around SAR 90 per person, making it an affordable way to explore the area's heritage.

Planning your budget

AlUla offers a lifestyle that balances heritage charm with modern comforts, and the overall cost of living remains reasonable for a destination of its profile. To build an accurate budget:

Confirm current rent with local listings before committing
Check official utility providers for exact tariffs
Factor in seasonal spikes in cooling costs
Balance home cooking with occasional dining out to manage your food budget

With a baseline of around SAR 4,475 you can tailor your spending to match your priorities and enjoy everything this remarkable destination has to offer.

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