Islamonweb

Saudi Arabia is set to launch the Darb al-Hijrah project in November 2025, an immersive historical and spiritual experience that allows visitors to trace the path taken by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his companion Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (RA) during their migration from Makkah to Madinah in the first year of the Hijrah.

Against the backdrop of Mount Uhud—a mountain that the Prophet ﷺ described as "a mountain that loves us, and we love it"—and under the blessed skies of Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, the initiative Ala Khutahu (In His Footsteps) ﷺ, with the tagline ‘Every Step Tells a Story’, was officially announced on the 27th of Rajab, the day of Isra and Mi‘raj.

The experience recreates the historical journey, offering an opportunity for believers to connect deeply with the spiritual significance of the Hijrah. Covering approximately 470 kilometres, the route features 41 historical landmarks, including sites where key moments of the migration unfolded. Five of these locations will have interactive exhibitions, narrating the stories of sacrifice, faith, and resilience that defined the Prophet’s journey.

One of the major highlights is the Hijrah Museum, which will provide visitors with an in-depth understanding of the migration’s impact on Islamic history. Along the route, eight dedicated rest stations will be established, including significant stopovers that reflect the locations where the Prophet ﷺ rested during his journey.

The experience is designed to blend spirituality with historical immersion, allowing visitors to walk part of the path, experience reenactments, and gain insights into the challenges and divine protection the Prophet ﷺ received along the way. The project aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by promoting the country’s rich Islamic heritage and offering a unique way for visitors to engage with the history of Islam.

The Ala Khutahu experience is scheduled to run for six months, with key historical locations identified based on verified sources. This initiative is expected to attract thousands of visitors, providing them with a transformative journey that deepens their connection to the legacy of the Hijrah.

By reviving the route of the Prophet ﷺ, Darb al-Hijrah serves as both an educational and spiritual endeavour, allowing Muslims to walk in the footsteps of the greatest migration in history—one that changed the course of civilization forever.