AlUla’s Seasonal Lifestyle Reveals Lasting Harmony with Nature

Social and economic life in AlUla historically followed a unique seasonal cycle reflecting harmony between people and their natural environment, as residents moved between the old town and surrounding farms, adapting their lifestyle to the seasons in a way that demonstrated a deep understanding of the land and its challenges.
 During winter, life centered in the old town, built from mud and stone, with narrow alleyways and tightly packed buildings that provided warmth and shelter. The old town also hosted markets, trade, and public gatherings, serving as the social and cultural heart of AlUla.
 In summer, residents moved to the palm farms on the outskirts of the oasis, where dense palm groves and natural springs provided a suitable environment for living and agricultural work. They lived in simple palm dwellings made from natural materials such as trunks and fronds, offering seasonal comfort and supporting sustainable farming.
 This annual cycle reflected a precise balance between climate and livelihood, with the town playing its social and economic role in winter while the farms provided food and environmental value in summer, maintaining a generational equilibrium across the oasis. This lifestyle stands as a testament to the natural ingenuity of AlUla’s people in managing local resources in tune with nature’s rhythm, traces of which remain visible in the landscape today.