Aziz AlUla (عزيز العلا), founder of Nabatean Studio (الاستديو النبطي) and an ambassador for Sony, is more than an entrepreneur. He is a creative storyteller rooted deeply in his heritage, using photography and art to share the magic of his hometown, AlUla, Saudi Arabia. His work combines tradition with innovation—capturing the spirit of the desert through a modern lens.
From Local Roots to Global Lens
Born and raised in AlUla, Aziz’s connection to the land is unshakable. While he explored the world through education and travel, the golden sands and ancient rocks of AlUla called him home. Describing himself as a “Bedouin guy who discovered art” and using his lens to bring stories of his home to the world, he shows humility and authenticity in every project he touches.
Aziz launched Nabatean Studio as a space for visual storytelling. From sandstone tombs to starlit skies, his photographs explore the beauty of AlUla—making it accessible to the world and inviting people to experience its energy.
Capturing the Soul of the Desert
For Aziz, photography is more than taking pictures—it’s about emotion, memory, and perspective. Some of his most captivating works include sunrises over the dramatic rock formations of Hegra, the rolling Volcano of the Harrat viewpoint, and intimate portraits of locals living ordinary yet extraordinary lives.
His photography brings out the details that many overlook—the subtle shadows of carved mountains, the warmth in a Bedouin smile, or the contrast between ancient and modern life. Through his lens, viewers can almost feel the desert breeze and hear the silence of the early morning sands.
Empowering Artists and Future Entrepreneurs
Aziz is passionate about giving back to the creative community. As a Sony ambassador, he regularly leads workshops and events to help young creators find their style and voice. His guidance focuses on more than just the technical side of photography. He talks about passion, storytelling, and the importance of staying grounded in your roots.
He also shares insights on turning art into a business—from building a personal brand to attracting the right opportunities. By being honest about his own journey, Aziz inspires others to pursue their creative paths with confidence.
Driving AlUla’s Cultural Renaissance
AlUla is transforming into one of Saudi Arabia’s most important cultural and tourism destinations. From open-air art festivals to world-class hospitality projects, the city is attracting global attention. Aziz plays an important role in visually documenting this change—preserving the region’s identity while celebrating its evolution.
As both a local and a professional creative, he brings a unique perspective to how AlUla is shown to the world. His photography helps shape the narrative of a city that is proud of its past and ready for the future.
Why People Connect With Aziz
He’s real.
Aziz doesn’t pretend. His work and his personality reflect humility, passion, and love for his community.
He teaches.
He doesn’t just create art—he shares it. Through classes, videos, and open dialogue, Aziz encourages others to create boldly.
He bridges worlds.
Aziz connects the ancient with the modern, the local with the global, the traditional with the trendy. His work speaks to people across cultures and backgrounds.
What’s Next for Aziz AlUla
Expanding Nabatean Studio:
Aziz’s creative studio is likely to grow into a hub for not just photography but also short films, digital storytelling, and creative collaborations.
Workshops Across the Region:
With growing demand, Aziz may take his teaching approach to other cities—supporting creators in Riyadh, Jeddah, and beyond.
International Exhibitions:
As his profile grows, there’s strong potential for his work to be showcased in art galleries and photography festivals around the world.
Visual Collaborations with Filmmakers:
With AlUla’s emerging film scene, Aziz may play a key role in crafting visual assets for international cinema and cultural documentaries.
Conclusion: A Lens That Lights Up AlUla
Aziz AlUla is more than a man behind a camera—he is a visionary helping the world see Saudi Arabia through a new light. With every photo, he tells a story of pride, potential, and poetic beauty. He is helping reshape how AlUla is perceived—not just as an ancient city, but as a living, breathing canvas of culture and creativity.
By combining heritage and heart, Aziz gives voice to the soul of the desert. For those looking to explore AlUla, both online and in person, following his journey is the perfect first step. Through his Instagram (@aziz.alula and @nabatean.studio), you don’t just see pictures—you feel them.
Also read: Tahra Al Ajmi: Inspiring Omani Women One Post at a Time
