A 100 Riyal permit is necessary for visiting Madain Saleh. Tour operators or hotels will usually arrange these on your behalf apply at least one week in advance, or do it yourself at the National Museum in Riyadh.
By plane
By plane
The nearest airports are in Al Wajh 220 km and Medina 300 km, and yes, the airport is open to non-Muslims. Until 2004, visitors usually traveled via Hail 400 km, but a new road from Al Wajh now makes that route considerably faster.
By car
By car
The nearest town of any size is Al-Ula or Al-Oula, 22 km away from Madain Saleh. Saptco runs direct buses to Al-Ula from major towns including Jeddah 8 hrs and Riyadh 13.5 hours.