Hero Balloon Flights, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s only commercial hot air balloon operator, took to the skies in October 2023 and has been offering guests the chance to marvel at AlUla’s magnificent landscapes from above. In April 2024, they are launching a new fleet of balloons that will paint the skies with iconic images of what makes AlUla so special.

This new collection of hot air balloons showcases the world’s largest fully digitally printed balloon envelopes. This unique way of manufacturing this fleet allowed for groundbreaking designs comprising imagery that captures the essence and beauty of this unique destination, creating an unparalleled visual phenomenon for passengers and onlookers alike.

The new fleet features three distinct designs, each celebrating and highlighting a unique facet of AlUla’s natural and cultural heritage:

1.    Hegra: A breathtaking depiction of the most recognised site in AlUla. Hegra is Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. As this wonder spans over a vast 52 hectares, each rock formation and tomb holds an ancient charm of culture and art. Passengers will feel a different kind of magic as they fly over this historic city in a hot air balloon, duplicating the Hegra site.

2.    Arabian Leopard Day: A striking visual of the Arabian Leopard. This balloon symbolises Saudi Arabia and the Royal Commission for AlUla’s conservation efforts while showcasing the region’s diverse wildlife. This hot air balloon aims to direct the world’s attention to the plight of the almost-extinct Arabian Leopard.

3.    Khaybar: An exquisite portrayal of the ancient volcanic formations of Harrat Khaybar. Over the years, aerial archaeology and photography have unfolded this area’s monumental scale and story, which is now being captured on a hot air balloon that will grace the skies of AlUla daily.

Adam McEwan, CEO of Hero Balloon Flights, expressed his excitement about this milestone, saying, “We are thrilled to announce the world’s largest fully digitally printed hot air balloons in a stunning destination like AlUla. These balloons offer a unique and immersive way to experience the region’s beauty and represent the efforts and commitment to innovation and excellence in hot air ballooning.”

The unveiling of these iconic balloons marks a new chapter in AlUla’s tourism landscape. Further, it enhances its reputation as a premier destination for adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts and nature lovers. Hero Balloon Flights is excited to continue expanding the fleet with more art pieces that beautifully capture AlUla.