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Time of India
28-07-2025
- 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
10-06-2025
- Politics
- Saudi Gazette
Madinah Emir reviews operational readiness at Prophet's Mosque
Saudi Gazette report MADINAH— Emir of Madinah and Chairman of the region's Permanent Committee for Hajj and Umrah Prince Salman bin Sultan conveyed greetings and appreciation from Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman to security personnel and entities participating in Hajj missions. The leadership's appreciation recognized the personnel's dedicated efforts to serve pilgrims and acknowledged the significant responsibility they bear in maintaining the security and comfort of the Prophet's Mosque. Prince Salman made the remarks after a field visit to the Prophet's Mosque, to review its operational readiness, coinciding with the arrival of the first groups of pilgrims from Makkah after completing this year's Hajj rituals. Hajj was carried out smoothly, supported by extensive services provided by the government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and the Crown Prince. Serving pilgrims remains a top priority for the Kingdom's leadership, reflecting its commitment to caring for the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors.
Saudi Gazette
07-06-2025
- Saudi Gazette
Madinah completes preparations to receive pilgrims via bus and train after Hajj
Saudi Gazette Report MADINAH — Government authorities in Madinah have finalized their preparations to receive the influx of pilgrims visiting the Prophet's Mosque following the completion of their Hajj rituals. The coordinated efforts reflect Madinah's commitment to ensuring a seamless and spiritually enriching post-Hajj experience for the pilgrims. Under the direct supervision of Emir of Madinah Region and Chairman of the Hajj and Visitation Committee Prince Salman bin Sultan, relevant agencies are executing comprehensive operational plans tailored to the post-Hajj season. The first groups of returning pilgrims are set to arrive Sunday evening, Dhul Hijjah 12, via bus and the Haramain High-Speed Train. Authorities are actively monitoring field operations to ensure smooth traffic on key routes, including the Hijrah Expressway, and have implemented precautionary measures to maintain high levels of security and traffic fluidity along the Qassim and Tabuk roads leading into Madinah. The General Authority for the Affairs of the Prophet's Mosque has launched an integrated plan to prepare the mosque and its facilities to receive pilgrims in a clean, safe, and welcoming environment. A total of 141 mosque doors will be opened to accommodate male and female pilgrims, with 100 designated pathways staffed by spatial guidance teams to organize movement within the mosque complex. Special arrangements have been made to manage access to Al-Rawdah Al-Sharif, with entry regulated through pre-booked appointments on official applications, ensuring adherence to crowd capacity and providing a smooth experience. Informational digital screens guide visitors through designated entry points, and Zamzam water bottles are distributed to enhance their spiritual visit. These efforts aim to facilitate voluntary prayers in Al-Rawdah Al-Sharif and allow the largest possible number of pilgrims to offer greetings to Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him) and to his two companions.
Arab News
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
New platform, pavilion inaugurated at Prophet's biography museum in Madinah
RIYADH: A new pavilion and an interactive digital platform have been inaugurated at the International Fair and Museum of the Prophet's Biography and Islamic Civilization in Madinah. The new additions to the museum were inaugurated by Prince Salman bin Sultan, Governor of Madinah, in the presence of Mohammad Al-Issa, Secretary-General of the Muslim World League and Supervisor-General of the museum. The new pavilion offers a documented presentation of Madinah through more than 20 sections, covering the most important historical, cultural, and social monuments and landmarks of the holy city during the era of the Prophet Muhammad. It also includes a panorama of the Prophet's Chamber and presents a simulation of the construction of the Prophet's Mosque, the Prophetic medicine tent, and the Prophet's daily routine. Ethaf, the new digital platform, allows visitors to explore the Prophet's biography through virtual tours, with access to a library of over 350 books and encyclopedias in the service of the Holy Qur'an and the Prophetic Sunnah, translated into several languages. The governor also visited the pavilion showcasing the Kingdom's efforts in serving Qur'an, Sunnah, and the Two Holy Mosques, and was briefed on its work and efforts to highlight the message of Islam.
Saudi Gazette
17-04-2025
- Business
- Saudi Gazette
Madinah Emir inaugurates 45th AlBaraka Islamic Economics Symposium
Saudi Gazette report MADINAH— Emir of Madinah Prince Salman bin Sultan inaugurated the 45th AlBaraka Islamic Economics Symposium at Prince Muqrin bin Abdulaziz University in Madinah on Wednesday. Eminent experts in economics, finance, and investment are taking part in the two-day symposium under the theme "Islamic banking in 50 years: Past achievements and future aspirations." AlBaraka Forum for Islamic Economy Board of Trustees Chairman Abdullah bin Saleh Kamel highlighted the symposium's significance coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Islamic banking. He announced the inaugural Saleh Kamel Islamic Economics Award, designed to honor industry pioneers and advance the sector's principles of commitment, social benefit, and responsible investment. In his speech, Royal Court Advisor and Council of Senior Scholars Member Sheikh Saad Al-Shathri emphasized Saudi Arabia's commitment to Islamic banking, noting that over 85 percent of the Kingdom's banking operations adhere to Islamic principles, a globally unmatched percentage. Jamia Darul Uloom Karachi President and Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI) Shari'ah Board Chairman Sheikh Muhammad Taqi Usmani underscored Islamic banking's role as an ethical and just financial system, balancing Shari'ah objectives with contemporary needs. He stressed that maintaining the system's ethical core and positive societal impact remains a key challenge. The symposium also featured the signing of three memoranda of understanding. These were between the Madinah Principality's non-profit sector center and the Saleh A. Kamel Humanitarian Foundation to enhance social development in the region; Spectreco and AlBaraka Forum for Islamic Economy to develop an Islamic sustainability index integrating Shari'ah compliance with ESG standards; and the University of Jordan and AlBaraka Forum for Islamic Economy to foster academic and training collaboration.
