This November, history comes alive under desert skies. The Hijrah Trail—an epic 470-kilometer route from the Cave of Thawr in Makkah to the Quba Mosque in Madinah—invites modern-day adventurers to walk in the footsteps of one of the most transformative journeys in human history. More than a path, it’s a pilgrimage of purpose, blending physical endurance with cultural immersion.
Launching as a six-month immersive experience, Ala Khotah offers a rare opportunity to relive the Hijrah through interactive storytelling, restored landmarks, and hands-on cultural engagement. Inaugurated by Prince Salman bin Sultan, Governor of the Madinah Region, the program features 59 historical and enrichment stations, 41 restored landmarks and 5 pivotal event sites. Each stop is a portal to the past, illuminating the resilience, faith, and humanity behind the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (RA). From golden dunes to rugged escarpments, the trail veers off caravan roads to echo the original route—remote, raw, and breathtaking.
Camel caravans aren’t just symbolic—they’re integral. Guided by local experts, riders experience the rhythm of desert travel as it was centuries ago. Covering 305 km on foot, the journey demands stamina and spirit. Saudi adventurer Badr Al-Shaibani completed it in just 12 days, averaging 40 km daily. Beyond the trek, Ala Khotah offers workshops in traditional crafts, historical reenactments, and augmented reality storytelling—bridging past and present.
Far from city lights, the night sky unfolds in pristine clarity. Each campfire evening becomes a celestial meditation. From sunrise silhouettes to historic ruins framed by sand, the trail offers rare photography opportunities that speak to both soul and lens. The Hijrah Trail stands alongside the world’s great pilgrimages—Camino de Santiago, the Inca Trail—but with its own desert drama and spiritual depth. It’s not just a trek. It’s a transformation. As the world’s fastest-growing destination, Saudi Arabia is redefining travel with bold heritage experiences and year-round adventure. Saudi, Welcome to Arabia is your gateway to it all—offering inspiration, resources, and a warm invitation to explore the heart of Arabia.
https://www.gea.gov.sa/en/initiatives/ala-khotah/
