Al-Ula surprised me completely on this trip to Saudi Arabia

I went to Saudi Arabia with modest expectations and left completely won over, largely thanks to time spent in Al-Ula. The city has a pace and character that travel guides undersell. Found a great spot for Arabic coffee with cardamom on day two and went back every day after that.

Hegra (Mada'in Saleh) was the big planned experience and delivered as expected. But it was extraordinary archaeological sites that became the unexpected highlight — something I stumbled across rather than planned. 11 days was just right for getting below the surface without rushing.