A project following in his footsteps: A journey to document the path of the Prophet's migration
The “Following in His Footsteps” project represents a qualitative leap in the field of religious and cultural tourism in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as it aims to document and revive the path of the noble Prophetic migration, to enable visitors to follow in the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad, may God bless him and grant him peace, and his companion Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq, may God be pleased with him, within an integrated organizational framework that reflects the historical and spiritual dimensions of this great event that changed the course of history.
The historical and spiritual significance of the migration route
The Prophet's migration from Mecca to Medina is the most significant event in Islamic history. It was not merely a physical relocation, but the beginning of the establishment of the Islamic state and the launch of a civilization that illuminated the world. This project aims to connect current generations with this great legacy by experiencing the geographical reality of the journey, thus enhancing awareness of the Prophet's biography and transforming theoretical historical information into a tangible, real-life experience that resonates with Muslims across the globe.
Project scope and historical landmarks
The project's route spans over 470 kilometers, connecting Mecca and Medina, and passes by 41 documented historical landmarks, including five key sites directly linked to the events of the Hijra (migration). The plan includes developing these sites into educational and tourist destinations while preserving their authentic identity and geographical features, offering an experience that recreates the journey of our ancestors but with modern methods and services that ensure visitor comfort and safety.
Ambitious goals and sustainable economic impact
As part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, the project aims to welcome one million visitors in its first phase, with ambitious plans to reach five million visitors by 2030, and future studies to increase capacity to ten million. The impact extends beyond the cultural sphere to include the development of the areas along the route. The project is expected to create approximately 25,000 jobs initially, rising to 200,000 direct and indirect jobs in the future, thus contributing to the creation of diverse employment opportunities for the residents of Makkah and Madinah.
Modern technologies to serve visitors
To ensure easy access and enhance the experience, the “Following in His Footsteps” digital application was launched, allowing visitors to book packages and view interactive maps of the route and stations. Work is also underway on ambitious projects such as the installation of a cable car in the Gar Thawr area, with an operational capacity of up to 3,000 people per hour, facilitating access to this rugged historical landmark. Initial indicators have shown global enthusiasm for this experience, with applications from Indonesia alone exceeding two million, confirming the project's global significance and the special place it holds in the hearts of Muslims worldwide.
