JEDDAH: The Peace Trip Team, sponsored by the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA), visited the historic site of Madain Saleh in Al-Ula in Madinah Province on Thursday.
The team, traveling on motorcycles and in sports cars, consists of a group of Saudis intent on exploring the country's heritage.
The trip, aimed at highlighting the Kingdom's architectural heritage, also covered an old township in Al-Ula, which included 732 houses with similar interior and external designs and an old souk.
Madain Saleh is located 22 km from Al-Ula. Situated in a strategic location, it was the capital of the Nabatean kingdom and an important economic and trade destination for caravans.
In 2008, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) included Madain Saleh in its World Heritage List, the first site in Saudi Arabia to win this status.
The remains of Madain Saleh are testament to the remarkable work of engineering by the Nabateans.
There are more than 130 tombs carved out of huge sandstone mounds, standing in a world of wavy sands.
The team plans to visit 28 cities and townships across the Kingdom to explore areas of the country's history and heritage.
Meanwhile, historical areas in the Madinah province, including those in Al-Ula, Yanbu and Arrayes, have attracted a large number of Saudis and expatriates.
"The mid-year school vacation time offers a good opportunity for Saudis and expatriates to visit historical places in the country," said Yousuf Al-Muzainy, executive director for tourism and antiquities in the province.
The information center at Prince Muhammad International Airport in Madinah has been providing information, maps and guidance for prospective tourists visiting the city.
The resorts in Yanbu receive a large number of people during school vacations, especially families.
By YOUSUF MUHAMMAD
© Arab News 2010
