Alula: AlUla's timeless landscapes and ancient archaeological sites are prominently featured in Ubisoft's latest release, Assassin's Creed Mirage: Valley of Memory, presenting the Kingdom's cultural heritage to a global audience through one of the world's most renowned video game franchises.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the 'Valley of Memory' expansion draws direct inspiration from AlUla's dramatic desert terrain, life-giving oasis, and the monumental tombs of Hegra-Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. These historical elements are intricately woven into the game's design and narrative, delivering a richly researched, human-centered interactive experience.
In this new chapter, the game's protagonist Basim Ibn Ishaq journeys to AlUla with his companion Dervis after learning of a painting linked to his estranged father, Is'haq Ibn Khalid, in a storyline that blends emotional depth with a vivid sense of place.
Throughout development, Ubisoft collaborated closely with leading experts to authentically recreate ninth-century AlUla, while balancing historical accuracy with gameplay requirements. Among those contributing their expertise were Vice President of Culture at the Royal Commission for AlUla Dr. Abdulrahman Alsuhaibani; Director of Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Research at the Royal Commission for AlUla Dr. Rebecca Foote; and Director of Archaeology, Heritage, and Research at AFALULA Dr. Ingrid P©riss©-Val©ro.
Their guidance informed detailed architectural and archaeological decisions, including the shapes and proportions of tombs, the carvings and decorative motifs on fa§ades, the selection and thickness of stone, and interpretations of early religious architecture. In certain instances, additional walls or climbable features were introduced to enhance level design while preserving the authentic identity of the sites.
Educational content within the game also draws upon images and artifacts from AlUla's collections and international museums, grounding the fictional narrative in a rigorously researched historical framework. The expansion further incorporates updated and accurate readings of landmark names, including the Tomb of Hayyan, Son of Kuza, reflecting ancient local inscriptions.
Players can explore a range of iconic AlUla landmarks, including the Lion's Tomb inspired by the famed lion reliefs at Dadan, AlUla Oasis, AlUla Fort in AlUla Old Town, Elephant Rock, Jabal Ikmah-known as AlUla's 'open-air library'-the Tomb of Hayyan, Son of Kuza, and Jabal Ithlib in Hegra with its narrow rock passageways, altars, and carved banquet hall.
This collaboration exemplifies the integration of creative industries with cultural heritage, shaping a player journey guided by AlUla's real topography and history. It reinforces AlUla's position as a global cultural destination whose influence extends into the realm of digital creativity.