Latest news with #IntheProphet'sSteps'


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.


Leaders
29-01-2025
- Business
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia Launches 'In the Prophet's Steps' to Revive the Hijrah Legacy
Saudi Arabia unveiled the 'In the Prophet's Steps' project, aiming to recreate the historic route taken by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) during his migration from Mecca to Medina. This initiative seeks to offer visitors an immersive experience of this significant journey. Journey Through Time: Key Features of the Project The project features a 470-kilometer route connecting Mecca and Medina, with 305 kilometers walkable by foot. It involves restoring 41 historic landmarks and includes five interactive stations narrating key events from the Prophet's migration. Additionally, a dedicated Migration Museum will educate visitors on this pivotal chapter of Islamic history. تحاكي تجربة #على_خطاه الدرب الذي سلكه النبي محمد صلى الله عليه وسلم وصاحبه خلال الهجرة النبوية من مكة المكرمة إلى المدينة المنورة، لتمكّن الزوار من تتبع خطاه في رحلته بالتركيز على جوانبها التاريخية والروحية ❤ The AlaKhutah experience recreates the migration route of Prophet… — TURKI ALALSHIKH (@Turki_alalshikh) January 27, 2025 Along the route, eight stations provide deeper insights into the migration journey. Over 30 restaurants and 50 shops enhance the visitor experience. Designed to accommodate up to 12,000 visitors daily, the project offers a transformative journey that blends history, spirituality, and modern amenities. Leadership's Vision and Commitment Prince Salman bin Sultan, Emir of Medina, emphasized the leadership's dedication to preserving Islamic heritage. He stated, 'This project is a testament to our leadership's commitment to preserving Islamic heritage. It provides an opportunity for visitors to trace the Prophet's journey and explore the landmarks associated with his migration.' Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, Turki Alalshikh, described the project as a milestone in showcasing the Kingdom's civilizational heritage. He noted, 'This initiative reflects the directives of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to preserve and promote Islamic history.' Aligning with Vision 2030 The 'In the Prophet's Steps' project aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which emphasizes preserving and promoting Islamic history. It complements other initiatives like 'The Line,' a revolutionary urban development that prioritizes human well-being and environmental sustainability. This integration showcases the Kingdom's commitment to blending tradition with modernity. In addition to the main project, Saudi Arabia has hosted exhibitions like 'Hijrah: In the Footsteps of the Prophet.' This exhibition offers a research-based artistic retelling of the Prophet's journey, combining contemporary and Islamic art with artifacts, film, and performance. Such initiatives aim to provide new insights into the historic migration within a modern context. The 'In the Prophet's Steps' project, developed in collaboration with historical and governmental institutions to ensure accuracy and authenticity, will officially launch in November and run for six months. It aims to create a transformative experience for visitors, offering a journey that combines history, spirituality, and cultural richness. By blending spirituality with modernity, 'In the Prophet's Steps' invites global audiences to explore Saudi Arabia's sacred history. This milestone underscores the Kingdom's role as a guardian of Islamic heritage while advancing its tourism ambitions. Short link : Post Views: 91