Bringing California to Saudi Arabia, Caravan AlUla comprises a fleet of Airstream trailers for desert glamping. There are food trucks too. Gemma Harris reports
Opened last year, eco-focused hospitality group Our Habitas (formerly just Habitas) has a Burning Man-inspired glamping concept called Caravan by Our Habitas, in the AlUla desert region of north-west Saudi Arabia.
Designed for “experience seekers with a pioneering spirit”, Caravan AlUla consists of 22 Airstream trailers. Mercifully, each is fully air conditioned and comes with a queen-sized or twin single bed configuration. Also included is an indoor lounge, kitchenette, separate shower, bathroom and scenic views of the surrounding canyons.
Oliver Ripley, co-founder and CEO of Habitas, says: “We are excited to expand our brand in a new direction and to offer a new type of experience; we invite people to come on an adventure, to play in raw nature.” In the heat of the summer, it’s hard to imagine anyone wanting to be outside, though.
In the centre of the site is the gathering tent, a space where guests can play games, drink tea and connect. Drawing inspiration from the living areas of traditional Saudi homes, the communal areas include antiques and heritage crafts from the Kingdom. As the sun sets over the desert, guests can relax around the large outdoor firepit area and make use of the open-air cinema facilities.
For adventurous guests, programming will also include activities such as canyon crossings, dessert treks, Arabian horse riding and desert survival skills.
Three food trucks on site provide flexible dining options with family-style eating areas with cushioned seating, from homemade ice cream to pizza and locally inspired juices and coffee.
This outpost includes the Thuraya Wellness spa facilities, with curated activities such as Bedoiun Sound Sensorama, the Desert Clay Circle ceremony and essence-making.