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.

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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.

Turki said some 300,000 visitors are expected this year, and the initiative is forecast to welcome five million participants annually by 2030. 

He said similar campaigns will soon be launched in Malaysia, India and Turkiye, as part of the project’s international expansion.

“Ala Khutah” is one of the flagship interactive initiatives by the General Entertainment Authority under Saudi Vision 2030, using advanced technology and immersive experiences to revive the Hijrah route from Mecca to Medina and highlight the historical and human values of Prophet Muhammad’s life.

--BERNAMA