The migration from Makkah to Madina, known as the Hijrah, is considered one of Islam’s most pivotal moments. It marked the beginning of the Islamic calendar and laid the groundwork for what would become the first Muslim state. Now, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative called Ala Khutah, designed to offer visitors an immersive journey through this significant historical route.
This project, inaugurated by the governor of Madina region, was announced by Turki Al-Sheikh, chairman of the General Entertainment Authority. On his X post, he highlighted how Ala Khutah “documents historic milestones” and aims to “promote deeper understanding of the Prophet’s life.”
Visitors can book a Primary Package through a dedicated mobile app available on Google Play and Apple App Store. The package covers four days from Makkah’s Cave of Thawr to Madina’s Quba Mosque, priced at 4,230 rial (Rs 315,300) for four people. Accommodations, public bus transportation, entry fees for all ticketed sites, and five interactive experiences are included. Meals are not covered in the package; however, non-Muslims may join except for the Cave of Thawr.
The immersive experience features various attractions like a 30-minute presentation on camel wonders and sensory storytelling at Khaymata Umm Ma’bad, where the Prophet arrived amid drought-stricken conditions. Visitors also get to experience how travel varies between summer and winter in Madina’s region. Across seven stations corresponding to where the Prophet spent nights during his journey, over 68 shops and 112 restaurants have been established.
Al-Sheikh stated that Ala Khutah aims to attract one million visitors by its first phase, with a target capacity of five million by 2030. The initiative is set to draw both devout Muslims and history enthusiasts interested in Arab culture and Islamic traditions during the upcoming Ramadan period.