Dadan was the capital of the Dadanite and Lihyanite kingdoms more than two thousand years ago and sat on the incense road, long before the Nabataeans built Hegra. Its best-known features are tombs cut into red sandstone cliffs, called the lion tombs after seated lion figures carved into the rock face, believed to belong to elite members of Dadanite society, possibly royalty. Excavations are continuing, and the site includes inscriptions and carvings nearly fifty metres high. Tours to Dadan usually also take in Jabal Ikmah, about a ten-minute drive away, an open-air library of inscriptions and petroglyphs. It makes a good second heritage stop for visitors who have already seen Hegra.
Why it matters
Dadan and Jabal Ikmah show that AlUla’s story starts well before the Nabataeans. Jabal Ikmah’s rock faces carry hundreds of inscriptions in ancient scripts, which is why it is often described as an outdoor library, and at Dadan an exhibition of newly revealed artefacts is exclusive to tour ticket holders. For anyone interested in writing, trade or early Arabian kingdoms, it is the most rewarding stop in AlUla.
How to visit
The destination’s own website lists a standard Dadan and Jabal Ikmah tour of about two hours and a premium private version, both year-round, with booking in advance strongly recommended. Self-driving is not permitted, and standard visitors park at Winter Park and take a coach to the visitor centre. Visitors must stay on the designated paths and may not enter the tombs or touch the engravings. The half-day tour linked here is the independent option; confirm the meeting point and inclusions on the booking page.
Plan around
Dadan is cooler and more pleasant in the morning, and the cliffs look best in the low light. Wear sturdy shoes, carry water and bring a hat. Children aged four and under are free on the destination’s tour, but the walking and the history are best for older children and adults.
What to expect
The experience
A guided visit to the cliff-cut lion tombs at Dadan and the inscribed rock faces of Jabal Ikmah, with a short drive in between.
Best time
Morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and the heat is lower.
How long
About two hours on the standard tour, longer with transfers.
Tips
Book ahead, stay on the paths, wear sturdy shoes and bring water.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History lovers who want to go beyond Hegra.
- Families
- Older children who enjoy codes, inscriptions and rock carvings.
- Couples
- A quiet morning of heritage followed by lunch in Old Town.
- Pair with
- Hegra the same day, or Old Town for dinner.
- Time needed
- Allow half a day with transfers.
Good questions
What is the difference between Dadan and Hegra?+
Dadan was the capital of the earlier Dadanite and Lihyanite kingdoms, while Hegra was a later Nabataean city. They are different cultures a few centuries apart, which makes the two visits complementary.
What is Jabal Ikmah?+
It is a rocky canyon with a large number of ancient inscriptions and petroglyphs, about a ten-minute drive from Dadan. Tours to Dadan usually include it.
Can I visit Dadan by myself?+
Self-driving is not permitted, so you join an organised tour by coach or a private vehicle. Booking ahead is strongly recommended because tours are limited each day.
Can I enter the tombs?+
No, visitors must stay on the designated paths and may not enter the tombs or touch the engravings. You view them from outside with a guide.
How long should I allow?+
The standard tour takes about two hours, and the half-day option here is similar. Add transfer time from AlUla.
