Latest news with #Hijrah
Gulf Insider
a day ago
- Gulf Insider
From Mecca To Medina: Saudi Arabia Recreates The Prophet's Migration For Visitors
Saudi Arabia will welcome 300,000 visitors this November for an unprecedented cultural and spiritual experience tracing Prophet Mohammed's (PBUH) historic migration route from Mecca to Medina. The ambitious project, 'In the Prophet's Steps,' has already attracted over one million registrations globally, with 300,000 selected for the inaugural season by the General Entertainment Authority (GEA). GEA Chairman Turki Al Sheikh said the overwhelming response reflects the deep global interest in this immersive initiative, which aims to bring to life one of the most significant events in Islamic history. Using advanced technology, the project reconstructs the 470-kilometre Hijrah route, 305 kilometres of which are walkable, allowing visitors to follow the Prophet's footsteps through restored landscapes and historical sites. Forty-one landmarks along the route have been rehabilitated, supported by eight stations and five interactive hubs narrating key moments of the migration. A dedicated Migration Museum will further enrich visitors' understanding. To enhance the overall experience, the route includes 30 restaurants and 50 shops, with capacity to host up to 12,000 visitors per day. 'This project is a testament to our leadership's commitment to preserving Islamic heritage,' said Turki Al Sheikh. 'It offers an opportunity to explore the landmarks of the Hijrah and reflect on its enduring lessons.' Interest has been especially strong in Indonesia, with international rollouts planned for Malaysia, Turkey, and India. By 2030, the initiative aims to welcome five million visitors annually. To ensure comfort and safety along the rugged terrain, specially designed 4×4 vehicles will transport visitors, while new technology has reduced the journey to the Cave of Thawr—a key Hijrah site—from a strenuous two-hour climb to just three minutes. Combining historical authenticity, immersive storytelling, and modern amenities, In the Prophet's Steps offers a deeply moving and accessible experience of the Prophet's migration, illuminating its profound spiritual and human values for a global audience.
Barnama
2 days ago
- Barnama
Saudi Arabia Launches 'Ala Khutah' Experience To Retrace Prophetic Migration Route
KUALA LUMPUR, July 30 (Bernama) -- Saudi Arabia is recreating the historic Hijrah (migration) of Prophet Muhammad through the 'Ala Khutah' (In the Prophet's Steps) programme - a six-month immersive journey beginning this November that allows participants to retrace the sacred route from Mecca to Medina. Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority Turki Alalshikh said the initiative is part of the broader 'Hijrah Trail' project, launched earlier this year by the Governor of Madinah Region and Chairman of the Madinah Region Development Authority, Prince Salman bin Sultan. The experience allows participants to follow in the footsteps of the Prophet and his companion Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq, covering 470 kilometres and passing through 41 historical landmarks and five key locations. bootstrap slideshow He said the 'Ala Khutah' experience has drawn widespread global attention, particularly from Southeast Asia, as it has resonated deeply with the Muslim community, with over one million requests submitted to join the experience. 'This strong response highlights the special place the Hijrah story holds in the hearts of Muslims in the region, many of whom are eager to engage in a spiritually enriching journey that is tied to one of Islam's greatest historical moments,' he said in a statement on Wednesday. Participants will engage in an array of curated activities, including visits to key historical sites, camel riding, and theatrical re-enactments of the Hijrah at original locations. 'The experience has been meticulously designed according to the highest standards, relying on authentic and credible historical sources,' he said. The route also features eight designated rest camps, over 50 enrichment stations, and modern transport solutions such as 4x4 shuttle buses that allow visitors to reach the iconic Cave of Thawr in just three minutes, a journey that previously took over two hours on foot. 'The goal is to bring this interactive and human-centred recreation of the Prophetic journey to a broader global audience,' he said.
Leaders
2 days ago
- Business
- Leaders
Experience the Prophet's Journey: Saudi Arabia's Immersive Hijrah Route
Saudi Arabia prepares to welcome 300,000 global visitors this November for an unprecedented spiritual journey. The 'In the Prophet's Steps' initiative meticulously recreates Prophet Muhammed's (PBUH) historic Hijrah path from Makkah to Madinah. Organized by the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), this ambitious project garnered over one million global registrations. Consequently, the GEA selected 300,000 participants for the inaugural season. GEA Chairman Turki Alasheikh stated that the overwhelming response reflects deep worldwide interest in this key Islamic history event. Modern Technology Meets Ancient Path The project employs cutting-edge technology to reconstruct the full 470-kilometer Hijrah route. Significantly, visitors can walk 305 kilometers of this path, as they will traverse restored landscapes and historical sites following the Prophet's (PBUH) footsteps. Furthermore, teams have meticulously rehabilitated forty-one landmarks along the route, with eight stations and five interactive hubs narrate pivotal migration moments. Additionally, a dedicated Migration Museum will significantly deepen visitor understanding. The experience prioritizes visitor comfort alongside spiritual reflection. Strategically placed along the route are thirty restaurants and fifty shops, with the infrastructure capably hosts up to 12,000 visitors daily. GEA Chairman Turki Alasheikh emphasized, 'This project clearly demonstrates our leadership's commitment to preserving Islamic heritage. It offers everyone a unique opportunity to explore Hijrah landmarks and reflect on its timeless lessons.' Global Reach and Future Ambitions International interest, particularly from Indonesia, has been exceptionally strong. Accordingly, international rollouts are planned for Malaysia, Turkey, and India, as Saudi Arabia aims to welcome five million visitors annually by 2030. Moreover, specially designed 4×4 vehicles will ensure safe and comfortable transport for visitors in the route that traverses rugged terrain. Crucially, innovative technology now reduces the journey to the Cave of Thawr – a vital Hijrah site – from a strenuous two-hour climb to just three minutes. 'In the Prophet's Steps' masterfully blends historical authenticity, immersive storytelling, and modern conveniences. This initiative offers a deeply moving and accessible experience of the Prophet's (PBUH) migration. It vividly illuminates the profound spiritual and human values of the Hijrah for people worldwide. The 'In the Prophet's Steps' project aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which emphasizes preserving and promoting Islamic history. Short link : Post Views: 6
Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
What is Saudi Arabia's ‘In the Prophet's Steps'? Over one million worldwide registered ahead of launch
The project is expanding globally with planned rollouts in Indonesia, Malaysia, Turkey, and India to share the Hijrah experience/ Image: Saudi Gazzette TL;DR Saudi Arabia's immersive Hijrah experience opens in November. Over 1 million people have already registered. The 470 km route includes 41 restored sites and a Hijrah museum. Part of Vision 2030 to boost religious and cultural tourism. Saudi Arabia's groundbreaking cultural project, 'In the Prophet's Steps' , has crossed a major milestone, over one million people have registered to take part in the immersive Hijrah experience ahead of its official November launch. Led by the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), this initiative brings to life the migration of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Makkah to Madinah, aiming to offer a deeply spiritual, historically accurate, and technologically advanced journey to both domestic and international visitors. The Project: What 'In the Prophet's Steps' Is All About 'In the Prophet's Steps,' also referred to as Darb Al-Hijrah, is an experiential and educational initiative by the General Entertainment Authority in Saudi Arabia. The project was officially inaugurated in January by Prince Salman bin Sultan, Emir of the Madinah Region, during a ceremony held near Mount Uhud. Developed in collaboration with the General Entertainment Authority and relevant historical and governmental institutions, the initiative was unveiled as one of the GEA's most ambitious cultural and religious heritage experiences to date. The project reconstructs the 470-kilometer migration route taken by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companion Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like The Simple Morning Habit for a Flatter Belly After 50! Lulutox Undo This journey, known as the Hijrah, marks one of the most critical turning points in Islamic history. It laid the foundation for the spread of Islam and the formation of the first Islamic state. The project combines spiritual significance with historical authenticity. Developed in close cooperation with governmental and historical institutions, it aims to offer visitors: Restored historical landmarks: 41 key sites along the Prophet's migration route have been revived, preserving their religious and historical importance. Five interactive stations: Each station will present major events from the journey using immersive storytelling and advanced technology. A dedicated Hijrah Museum: Visitors will be able to explore the historical context of the migration through artifacts, digital exhibits, and educational materials. Modern rest stations: Eight sites, mirroring where the Prophet (PBUH) rested during the journey, will include lodging, dining, and traveler services. Spiritual spaces: Quiet areas for prayer and contemplation are integrated throughout the route to encourage reflection and connection with the deeper meaning of the Hijrah. The entire experience will last for six months beginning in November, offering a high-quality, safe, and spiritually enriching journey to participants from around the world. One Million and Counting: Public Response and Global Expansion The announcement of over one million registration requests was made by Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, via X (formerly Twitter). He wrote: 'Alhamdulillah, we've received over a million requests for the Hijrah trail in the 'On His Path' experience... See you in November, insha'Allah.' Alalshikh expressed his deep gratitude to Saudi leadership for enabling this monumental project. He thanked Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman for his unwavering support, as well as Prince Salman bin Sultan, Emir of the Madinah Region, and Prince Saud bin Mishaal, Deputy Emir of the Makkah Region, for their ongoing commitment. The project has already witnessed tremendous global enthusiasm, particularly in Indonesia, where footage showed long queues of people eager to take part. Similar rollouts are now planned in Malaysia, Turkey, and India, part of a larger international expansion strategy aimed at reviving and sharing the Hijrah experience with the global Muslim community. Making the Hijrah Accessible: Advanced Planning and Technology Given the rugged terrain of the Hijrah route, major investments have been made to ensure accessibility, safety, and comfort for all visitors. Key features include: Specialized 4x4 transport buses to facilitate movement across challenging sections of the trail. Advanced access to Ghar Thawr (Cave of Thawr): A significant innovation now allows visitors to reach this landmark in just three minutes, a journey that previously required a two-hour hike. These developments reflect the project's commitment to combining spiritual and historical authenticity with modern-day comfort and inclusivity. Alalshikh stated that this project underscores the Kingdom's focus on showcasing its historical and civilizational heritage, as per the directives of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The experience is carefully planned to accommodate 300,000 visitors in this first season. The broader target is to welcome 5 million visitors annually by 2030, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes cultural revitalization and diversification of the Kingdom's tourism sector. Why It Matters: History, Heritage, and the Future The Hijrah was not merely a physical journey; it was a defining moment in Islamic civilization. As Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers fled persecution in Makkah, the migration signaled the start of a new chapter, a society built on faith, justice, and unity. This experience seeks to bring that moment to life for today's audiences, making it tangible and impactful. Prince Salman bin Sultan emphasized that 'In the Prophet's Steps' forms part of broader national efforts to rehabilitate and activate significant Islamic heritage sites. These initiatives reflect Saudi Arabia's commitment to preserving its rich religious and cultural legacy while offering visitors meaningful spiritual experiences rooted in authentic traditions. The initiative also offers Saudi Arabia a distinct edge in the religious tourism sector, enhancing its appeal beyond the traditional Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. By offering an experience that blends history, faith, education, and cultural identity, it aims to attract new types of visitors from across the Muslim world and beyond. FAQs: Q: What is 'In the Prophet's Steps'? It is a cultural project that recreates the historic migration route of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Makkah to Madinah. Q: When will the experience start? The experience will officially launch in November 2025 and continue for six months. Q: How many people are expected to visit? The first phase expects around 300,000 visitors, with a goal of 5 million annually by 2030. Q: What can visitors expect to see and do? Visitors can explore restored historical sites, interactive exhibits, a dedicated museum, rest stations, and spaces for prayer and reflection.
Saudi Gazette
4 days ago
- Saudi Gazette
Over one million sign up for ‘On His Path' migration trail experience
Saudi Gazette report MADINAH — Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, announced that public interest in the immersive "On His Path" experience has surged past one million registration requests ahead of its official launch this November. Taking to X, Alalshikh wrote, 'Alhamdulillah, we've received over a million requests for the Hijrah trail in the 'On His Path' experience... See you in November, insha'Allah.' He extended his gratitude to Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman for his unwavering support of the project, and thanked Prince Salman bin Sultan, Emir of Madinah Region, and Prince Saud bin Mishaal, Deputy Emir of Makkah Region, for their consistent backing and commitment to the success of this pioneering initiative. Alalshikh highlighted the strong momentum the project is already seeing internationally, particularly in Indonesia, where video clips showed long lines of participants eager to join. He confirmed that similar rollouts are planned soon in Malaysia, Turkey, and India, as part of a global expansion strategy for the project, which aims to revive the Hijrah (Prophet Muhammad's migration) route through an unprecedented interactive and human-centered experience. This year's edition is expected to accommodate 300,000 visitors, with strict planning in place to ensure a high-quality, safe journey. By 2030, the project aims to welcome 5 million visitors annually. To facilitate smooth and secure movement across the rugged Hijrah terrain, Alalshikh announced the deployment of specially designed 4x4 transport buses. These will enhance accessibility while ensuring comfort for all participants. He also revealed a breakthrough in reaching Ghar Thawr (Cave of Thawr), a key Hijrah landmark, reducing the typically strenuous two-hour hike to just three minutes using advanced transportation technology, making the once-challenging site easily accessible for all visitors. 'On His Path' is one of the General Entertainment Authority's most ambitious experiential projects. It brings the story of the Prophet Muhammad's migration from Makkah to Madinah to life using cutting-edge technology, immersive storytelling, and historical accuracy. The initiative aims to deepen public understanding of the profound spiritual and human values embedded in the Hijrah, while making this pivotal moment in Islamic history more accessible to both domestic and international audiences.
