The sacred sites in Makkah and Madinah that Hajj pilgrims have a chance to experience

Special The sacred sites in Makkah and Madinah that Hajj pilgrims have a chance to experience
Visitors climb Thawr Mountain overlooking Makkah. (Getty Images)
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Updated 18 June 2024
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The sacred sites in Makkah and Madinah that Hajj pilgrims have a chance to experience

The sacred sites in Makkah and Madinah that Hajj pilgrims have a chance to experience
  • The act of welcoming Muslim pilgrims throughout the ages has resulted in a distinct cultural identity and legacy
  • Visitors are urged to gain a deeper insight into the spiritual and historical significance of the two holy cities

JEDDAH: During the pilgrimages of Hajj and Umrah, devout Muslims seek out sites that deepen their understanding of Islam and its rich heritage.

The historical sites and archaeological museums in Makkah Al-Mukarramah and Madinah Al-Munawara offer a profound educational experience to millions of visitors from around the world who flock to the two holy cities each year.

After completing their religious rites, such as Umrah and Tawaf, and paying their respects at the Haram, pilgrims yearn to immerse themselves in the history of Makkah and Madinah.

With histories going back thousands of years, these cities are embodiments of the origins of Islamic culture, having welcomed pilgrims down the ages and developed a distinct cultural identity in the process of doing so.




The Hira Cultural District in Makkah is among the must-visit landmarks for pilgrims. (SPA)

To grasp the historical importance of these cities and gain a deeper insight into their religious significance, visitors are urged to venture beyond the well-known landmarks like Jannat Ul Mua’lla, the Cave of Hira in Jabal Al-Nour, Mount Arafat and Masjid-e-Ayesha.

Nestled beside the renowned Jabal Al-Nour, the Hira Cultural District offers a distinctive fusion of cultural, historical, and engaging encounters. Encompassing 67,000 square meters, this district offers pilgrims an immersive voyage through time, enabling them to forge a connection with the vibrant history of Makkah.

Near the Haram lies the historic site of Hudaibiyah, where Prophet Muhammad signed the crucial treaty of Hudaibiyah. A mosque now stands at the site, alongside a weathered structure of unknown origin.




A mosque now stands in the historic site of Hudaibiyah, where Prophet Muhammad signed the crucial treaty of Hudaibiyah. (Supplied)

In 809, during a time of extreme water scarcity in Makkah, Queen Zubaida, the wife of Abbasid Caliph Harun Rashid, undertook a pilgrimage to the holy city. Witnessing the challenging conditions faced by pilgrims, she took immediate action by ordering the construction of the Zubaida Canal.

This canal, built more than a thousand years ago, has continued to supply water to pilgrims visiting Makkah ever since. 

Lastly, Mount Abu Qubais, where a miraculous event involving the moon occurred, serves as a reminder of divine intervention in Makkah’s scenery.

One of the must-visit attractions in Makkah is the Assalaamu Aleyka Ayyuhan Nabiyyu Museum, which educates visitors about the life of Prophet Muhammad through innovative displays and artifacts.

By providing glimpses into the type of dwelling he may have inhabited and showcasing clothing from his era, the museum offers a unique insight into his life, allowing guests to delve into the lives of his ancestors, wives, children, and descendants.




The Assalaamu Aleyka Ayyuhan Nabiyyu Museum in Makkah. (Supplied)

The collaborative effort of more than 150 scholars ensures the museum’s authenticity in religious, and archaeological details, creating a comprehensive and accurate portrayal of Prophet Muhammad’s life and legacy.

“I have been guiding pilgrims on deeply spiritual journeys for nearly 15 years, introducing them to the holy city’s lesser-known treasures,” Ahmed Khan, a private tour guide, told Arab News.

“Pilgrims are always thrilled and grateful when we visit sites where the legacy of Prophet Muhammad and the rich heritage of Islam resonate with each step.”

Another private tour guide, Aman Javaid, emphasized the importance of providing pilgrims with accurate information about the sites they visit.

“It’s crucial for me to ensure that I share all the correct details about these places,” he told Arab News. “Many pilgrims often mention the Cave of Hira, but I make it a point to take them to the Cave of Thawr as well.




The Thawr Cave, located in the Jabal Thawr mopuntain, is the place where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companion Abu Bakr hid from the Quraysh during the migration to Madinah. (Supplied)

“This revered site is where the Prophet Muhammad and his companion Abu Bakr sought refuge during their migration to Madinah. Sharing the story of how they escaped their enemies and found solace there always piques the pilgrims’ interest. I make sure I have comprehensive knowledge about these sacred sites.”

The Cave of Thawr underscores the importance of seeking refuge and divine guidance during adversity, marking a pivotal moment in Islamic history. Pilgrims honor the legacy of the prophet and Abu Bakr by offering prayers and paying their respects in this sacred place.

Located at the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad, the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library serves as a hub for knowledge and research. With a collection of more than 350,000 rare books and manuscripts, this esteemed institution stands as a testament to Makkah’s cultural and intellectual heritage.

Within the King Abdulaziz Complex lies the renowned Kiswa Factory, where artisans annually produce the exquisite black silk coverings for the Holy Kaaba. Adorned with intricate silver and gold embroidery and Quranic inscriptions, these coverings are a symbol of reverence and tradition.




Inside the King Abdul Aziz Complex, workers fabricate the kiswa, the cover of the Holy Kaaba. (AN photo/File)

The factory, now known as the King Abdulaziz Complex for Kiswa, showcases the artistry of silk knitting and embroidery, preserving a centuries-old craft.

Madinah, as the second holiest city in Islam, holds immense importance for Muslims undertaking Umrah and Hajj pilgrimages. Pilgrims visit to pay their respects at renowned mosques and historical sites steeped in cultural and religious significance.

The city is home to historic mosques dating back to the time of Prophet Muhammad, offering a spiritually enriching experience.

Masjid Al-Qiblatain stands out with its traditional design and renowned twin mihrabs, where it is believed Prophet Muhammad received a divine command to change the qibla direction. Rebuilt during King Fahd’s reign, this mosque remains a beautiful and significant place for prayers in Madinah.




Masjid Al-Qiblatain, meaning “two directions,” was built two years after Prophet Mohammed arrived in Madinah, a city known for its rich Islamic history, and a customary stop for millions of Umrah and Hajj pilgrims every year. (SPA)

Another notable site is Masjid Abu Bakr, honoring the first caliph and close companion of the prophet, reflecting the deep bond between Abu Bakr and Prophet Muhammad through its modest yet serene setting and inviting visitors to draw inspiration from Abu Bakr’s unwavering faith.

Among the historic mosques in Madinah, Masjid Al-Ahzab holds a significant place in Islamic culture, marking the site of a pivotal battle where the prophet’s du’a led to victory.

Meanwhile, Masjid Al-Ghamamah, though small in size, remains an important site for seeking blessings during ziyarat in Madinah. Visitors are encouraged to respect the mosque’s guidelines, including observing prayer times and maintaining modesty, to fully appreciate the spiritual significance of these revered locations.

Another fascinating site relates to the Battle of the Trench, also known as the Khandak Battle — a significant military confrontation in 624 between the Muslims of Madinah and the Makkan army, which was attempting to suppress the spread of Islam.




The Khandak Mosque stands in the place where the Khandak Battle took place in 624 between the Muslims of Madinah and the Makkan army, which was attempting to suppress the spread of Islam. (Supplied)

Fought near the Badr wells, it proved to be a decisive victory for the Muslims, highlighting their strength and Prophet Muhammad’s leadership.

Likewise, the Garden of Hazrat Salman Farsi in Madinah is a historic site where Prophet Muhammad planted 300 date palms to free Salman Farsi from slavery. Located near Masjid Quba, the garden remains lush with date palm trees and features a date shop for visitors to enjoy tea amid the greenery.

Meanwhile, the city’s oldest museum, Al-Madinah Museum, highlights Islamic history and the life of Prophet Muhammad through rare artifacts and models of city landmarks.




A general view of the Hira Cultural District in Makkah. (SPA)

Similarly, As Safiyyah Museum and Park, located near the Prophet’s Mosque, offers a unique cultural experience with a focus on educational enrichment and enjoyment.

The centerpiece is the Story of Creation Museum, which utilizes advanced technology to visually depict the creation narrative.




Madinah's Safiyyah Museum and Park, located near the Prophet’s Mosque. (Supplied)

Finally, the Hejaz Railway Museum is housed in the historic railway station and provides insights into the significance of the Hejaz Railway, which was built to facilitate pilgrimages to the holy cities. The museum displays vintage locomotives, historical photographs, and documents detailing the railway’s history.

These sites not only deepen pilgrims’ understanding of Islamic history but also foster a greater appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Through these visits, pilgrims connect with the legacy of their faith, making their pilgrimage a truly holistic journey.
 

 


Saudi beekeepers explore innovations on Italian study tour

Saudi beekeepers explore innovations on Italian study tour
Updated 30 October 2024
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Saudi beekeepers explore innovations on Italian study tour

Saudi beekeepers explore innovations on Italian study tour
  • Delegation gains advanced apiculture techniques to enhance local industry

RIYADH: A delegation of Saudi beekeepers recently completed a study tour in Italy, part of the Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program, known as Reef Saudi, in partnership with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization.

The program aims to modernize the Kingdom’s apiculture industry by introducing practitioners to world-leading techniques in bee cultivation and queen bee production, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

This visit is part of Reef Saudi’s new international training initiative designed to enhance farmers’ capabilities and expose them to modern agricultural methods through targeted overseas study tours.

Participants included model beekeepers managing demonstration apiaries and representatives from cooperative societies, selected for their potential to share knowledge throughout Saudi Arabia’s beekeeping community.

“This initiative seeks to elevate Saudi beekeeping standards by exposing participants to cutting-edge global practices and queen bee production techniques, supporting Vision 2030’s agricultural goals,” Reef Saudi officials said.

They emphasized the importance of implementing these Italian innovations in Saudi Arabia’s beekeeping sector while strengthening bilateral knowledge exchange.

During their time in Rome, the delegation gained insights into advanced research at the Animal Health Institute, focusing on rare bee strains and environmental optimization for productivity.

At Bologna’s CREA research center, participants explored innovative honey production techniques and pest-control strategies.

The study tour included hands-on sessions with Italian beekeepers and visits to state-of-the-art packaging facilities. A highlight was the tour of LEGA factory, a global leader in beekeeping equipment, exporting to 65 countries.

With a century-long legacy in apiculture, Italy is a world leader in beekeeping and queen bee cultivation, the SPA reported. The country’s crown jewel is the Apis mellifera ligustica, a native bee strain preserved through conservation programs, selective breeding, and protected sanctuaries.

Italy’s beekeeping excellence is further enhanced by its sophisticated regulatory infrastructure, which includes breeder support systems and stringent quality-control measures. A key factor for Saudi-Italian cooperation is the climatic similarity, as some Italian regions experience summer temperatures of up to 40 degrees Celsius, mirroring conditions in Saudi Arabia.


King Abdulaziz Public Library displays rare stamp collection

King Abdulaziz Public Library displays rare stamp collection
Updated 30 October 2024
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King Abdulaziz Public Library displays rare stamp collection

King Abdulaziz Public Library displays rare stamp collection
  • A particularly significant historical stamp commemorates King Abdulaziz’s accession to the throne in 1931-1932

RIYADH: The King Abdulaziz Public Library in Riyadh has put up on display a rare collection of postage stamps that chronicle contemporary Saudi history covering various national occasions and events, both before and after the founding of the Kingdom.

The library’s stamp collection comprises 13,000 stamps, including rare specimens issued during the reign of King Abdulaziz Al-Saud, state news agency SPA reported on Wednesday.

The oldest stamp in the collection dates back to March 1925.

A particularly significant historical stamp commemorates King Abdulaziz’s accession to the throne in 1931-1932, preceding the unification of the Kingdom on Sept. 23, 1932. The first stamp bearing the name “Kingdom of Saudi Arabia” was issued in 1934, with several editions printed in various colors.

During King Abdulaziz’s reign, stamp collections were issued to mark significant events such as the opening of the railway, visits by Arab and Islamic leaders and the introduction of airmail services.

The rare stamp collection offers a fascinating glimpse into the historical development of Saudi Arabia and its postal system, SPA reported.


Saker falcon sold at auction for $16,000

Saker falcon sold at auction for $16,000
Updated 30 October 2024
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Saker falcon sold at auction for $16,000

Saker falcon sold at auction for $16,000
  • The club’s mission is to develop Saudi Arabia into a worldwide hub for enthusiasts and breeders

RIYADH: A falcon has been sold for $16,000 on the 11th night of this year’s Saudi Falcons Club auction, with the initial bid at $3,000 less.

The sale of the Saker falcon on Monday night was held at the club’s headquarters in Malham, where the auction will continue until Nov. 15, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

The club’s auction is the largest event of its kind in the Kingdom and aligns with the goals of the Saudi Vision 2030 plan to support the industry.

The club’s mission is to develop Saudi Arabia into a worldwide hub for enthusiasts and breeders.

It also wants to ensure endangered species are protected by blocking sales of such birds, the SPA reported.


Jeddah forum focuses on coral reef conservation

Jeddah forum focuses on coral reef conservation
Updated 29 October 2024
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Jeddah forum focuses on coral reef conservation

Jeddah forum focuses on coral reef conservation

JEDDAH: The Red Sea Coral Reef Fish and Fisheries Forum began in Jeddah on Tuesday.

The two-day event aims to bolster efforts to preserve coral reef fish populations and fisheries while enhancing ecosystem sustainability in the Red Sea.

Organized by the General Organization for the Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea, the forum brings together 37 experts in marine ecosystems from Saudi Arabia and beyond.

Several governmental entities are taking part to discuss cooperation between Saudi Arabia and other countries.

Additionally, the event showcases initiatives to address challenges and capitalize on opportunities for sustainable development in the Red Sea.

The forum focuses on three main topics: Managing coral reef fisheries, mitigating the impact of fisheries on sea turtles and addressing threats to coral reefs to develop effective preservation strategies.

It is part of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture’s efforts to protect marine environments and enhance cooperation to achieve sustainable development goals for future generations.


Piece of cake: Saudi bakery competing with Paris’ best

Piece of cake: Saudi bakery competing with Paris’ best
Updated 29 October 2024
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Piece of cake: Saudi bakery competing with Paris’ best

Piece of cake: Saudi bakery competing with Paris’ best

MAKKAH: A Saudi-owned bakery in Paris is standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the city’s famed patisseries and giving the best French chefs a run for their money.

Blending French charm with Middle Eastern flair, Lam’s offerings include feta and za’atar buns, halva cookies and even the traditional Saudi kleicha.


Its founder, Abdullatef Al-Rashoudi, grew up in a family of seven children. His father, a brigadier general and commander in the Saudi army, relocated the family to the US for work.

His mother, of Syrian descent, was raised in Syria by the well-known Al-Rawaf family from Qassim. This created a unique cultural blend for Al-Rashoudi, shaping his modern outlook.

He told Arab News: “My life took a radical turn after my father passed away in 1997. I transitioned from childhood to facing significant responsibilities at the age of eight.

“I continued my studies at Dar-Assalam schools in Riyadh, graduating in 2007. I then joined the College of Medicine at King Saud University, where I obtained my medical degree in 2013.

“Afterward, I traveled to Canada to pursue a master’s degree at the prestigious McGill University, and then to France in 2016 to start a fellowship program in orthopedic surgery.”


According to Al-Rashoudi, he faced some difficulties in the program, leading him to pause his studies and return to Riyadh, where he worked at King Saud University for a year.

“In 2019, I decided to completely change my career path after realizing that my true passion lies in culinary arts, not medicine,” he added.

“With the support of my family and a scholarship from the Misk Foundation, I pursued culinary studies at Le Cordon Bleu in France, a longtime dream of mine.

“There, I honed my skills in the arts, and after graduating, I worked in several famous bakeries in France, gaining experience in a field that is highly competitive with chefs of extensive expertise.”


After three years of intensive training, Al-Rashoudi realized his dream of opening his own business in Paris: A cafe that combines baked goods and coffee, distinguished by authentic Saudi touches.

The project brought on a unique challenge, especially in a city where baked goods are often considered an integral part of daily life.

Through his cafe, Al-Rashoudi introduced Saudi kleicha, an old folk Saudi pastry, as an exclusive treat for customers.

It is not part of the regular menu, but through this approach, he aimed to introduce the French public to Saudi culture. His goal was achieved, particularly with the satisfaction he has observed among customers.


With support from the Saudi community in France, who frequently visit Al-Rashoudi’s cafe, Lam has received excellent reviews, earning a five-star rating on Google.

Today, Al-Rashoudi aspires to expand his business to other cities in Europe, with the ultimate goal of blending Saudi culture with global culinary arts, showcasing Saudi cuisine as a leading and contributing force in the world of food.