As the sands of Saudi Arabia’s vast deserts whisper tales of ancient migrations, a groundbreaking new experience invites modern adventurers to step into one of history’s most profound journeys. The Hijrah Trail, part of the Ala Khotah (In the Prophet’s Steps) initiative, officially launched in November 2025 and has already captivated over a million participants worldwide. This 470-kilometer epic from the Cave of Thawr in Makkah to the Quba Mosque in Madinah retraces the transformative migration of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (RA) in 622 CE—a pivotal event marking the start of the Islamic calendar. Blending rigorous physical challenges with deep spiritual and cultural immersion, the six-month program (running through May 2026) offers a unique way to connect with resilience, faith, and heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, a thrill-seeker, or a spiritual traveler, here’s why this trail deserves a spot on your bucket list.
1.Journey Back in Time and Walk in the Footsteps of History
Imagine reliving a moment that reshaped civilizations. The Ala Khotah program simulates the Prophet’s (PBUH) Hijrah with interactive storytelling at 59 historical and enrichment stations, 41 restored landmarks, and 5 key event sites. Inaugurated by Prince Salman bin Sultan, Governor of the Madinah Region, beside Mount Uhud, the trail starts at the Cave of Thawr—now accessible in just three minutes via modern transport, a far cry from the original two-hour climb—and ends at the Quba Mosque. Augmented reality reenactments bring the past to life, allowing you to witness the drama of evasion and faith. It’s not just a hike; it’s a homage to a story of perseverance that has inspired generations, fostering a profound sense of purpose and connection to Islamic heritage.
2. Trek Through Untouched Desert Wilderness
For those craving raw adventure, the Hijrah Trail delivers a diverse, demanding landscape straight out of a biblical epic. Spanning golden dunes, rocky escarpments, remote valleys, and rugged terrains, the route largely avoids modern roads to echo the original path’s isolation. Of the 470 km total, 305 km are designed for walking, testing your stamina amid Saudi Arabia’s dramatic wilderness. Saudi adventurer Badr Al-Shaibani set a benchmark by completing it in 12 days, averaging 40 km daily—proof that with grit, the desert’s challenges yield unparalleled solitude and self-discovery. Expect 4×4 vehicles for support on non-walkable sections, ensuring safety without sacrificing the thrill.
3. Ride Camels Like Ancient Caravans
Ditch the jeep for a timeless mode of transport: camel trekking. In Ala Khotah, guided rides by local experts recreate the caravan style of centuries past, swaying gently across the dunes as you bond with these resilient “ships of the desert.” It’s more than novelty—it’s an authentic link to how the Prophet (PBUH) and his companion navigated the arid expanse. Participants rave about the rhythmic journey, which builds camaraderie and offers stunning vistas, turning a simple ride into a meditative highlight of the expedition.
4. Conquer a Multi-Day Adventure
This isn’t a weekend stroll; it’s a multi-day odyssey demanding physical and mental fortitude. The trail’s 305 km on foot can be tackled in segments or fully, with rest stations and interactive hubs dotting the path for recovery. As one of the first 300,000 participants in 2025, you’ll join a global wave of explorers pushing limits in a landscape that tests endurance while rewarding with spiritual growth. Emerge transformed, much like the Hijrah itself—a testament to overcoming adversity, with designated prayer spots for reflection along the way.
5. Enrich Your Experience With Cultural Workshops
Beyond the trek, Ala Khotah weaves in hands-on learning to deepen your immersion. Participate in traditional crafts, historical reenactments, and workshops that explore Bedouin life, all enhanced by augmented reality for vivid storytelling. These sessions, held at enrichment stations, connect you to the Hijrah’s cultural fabric, from ancient navigation techniques to the era’s social dynamics. It’s an educational adventure that supports local communities, creating jobs in guiding and hospitality while preserving Saudi heritage.
6. Stargaze in a Pristine Desert Night Sky
After a day’s exertion, unwind under one of the Middle East’s clearest night skies. Desert camps along the trail provide a front-row seat to constellations wheeling overhead, far from light pollution. The silence amplifies the stars’ brilliance, offering a serene counterpoint to the trail’s intensity—a moment for contemplation on the Hijrah’s lessons of faith and unity. Many describe it as a spiritual reset, gazing at the same heavens that guided the Prophet (PBUH).
7.Capture Rare Photography Moments
Visual storytellers will feast on the trail’s photogenic drama. From sunrise gilding endless dunes to camel silhouettes against fiery sunsets, or ancient landmarks framed by stark escarpments, every turn yields Instagram-worthy shots. The restored sites, like the Cave of Thawr or Mount Uhud, add historical depth to your portfolio. With modern facilities ensuring accessibility, you can focus on framing the desert’s timeless beauty without logistical hassles.
The Hijrah Trail stands shoulder-to-shoulder with global icons like the Camino de Santiago or Inca Trail, but infuses them with desert allure and unparalleled historical resonance. As part of Saudi Vision 2030, it boosts religious tourism while inviting all to reflect on themes of migration, resilience, and new beginnings. With registrations soaring—especially in Indonesia, Malaysia, Turkey, and India—the trail is poised to become a must-do for adventure travelers.
Ready to lace up your boots? Visit the Visit Saudi website or
https://www.gea.gov.sa/en/initiatives/ala-khotah/ for details on participation, itineraries, and booking your spot on this life-changing path.