The Hijrah Trek – Following the Footsteps of the Prophet ﷺ
October 29, 2026
- November 8, 2026
Important Payment Notice
A £500 registration fee is required to secure your place. The remaining £2,500 must be paid in full by 30th August 2026. Failure to meet this deadline may result in the loss of your place.
Walk the path. Share the Journey. Be part of history.
Rashid Ali is the first man in the UK to complete the full Hijrah route on foot, following in the footsteps of the Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him).
In 2017, Rashid completed an extraordinary journey, becoming the first man to cycle from London to Makkah for Hajj. Inspired by that life-changing experience, he began searching for a deeper and more meaningful challenge, one rooted in faith, history, and reflection. That search led him to research, map, and walk the Hijrah Trek in its entirety.
With the invaluable support and guidance of Saudi historian Sheikh Abdul Hafedh and scholar and historian Dr Abdullah H. Al Kadi, Rashid dedicated over three years to meticulously researching the historic Hijrah route. In January 2023, he successfully completed the entire 550 km journey on foot with a small team—faithfully retracing the route taken over 1,400 years ago during the Hijrah.
Now, Rashid calls on you to walk the sacred path and experience this extraordinary journey for yourself.
Key Features of the Trek
Fully supported expedition
A professional local crew will provide 4×4 support, meals, water, and camp setup throughout the journey.Spiritual immersion
Daily prayers, reflections, Qur’anic reminders, and guidance from our esteemed sheikhs will bring the Hijrah to life.Desert camping & reflection
Spend nights under the stars, fostering reflection, brotherhood, and connection with faith.A journey of challenge and growth
A unique physical and spiritual experience designed to strengthen resilience and reliance upon Allah.
Journey Itinerary
Makkah
- Day 1: Perform Umrah
- Day 2: Ziyarat of historical sites in Makkah
Trekking and Camping
- Day 3–8: Start trek from Makkah through the desert, camp under the stars, and reflect on the resilience and faith of the Prophet (PBUH) and his companions.
- Day 9: Finish trek in Madinah
Madinah
- Day 10: Ziyarat of historical and spiritual landmarks in Madinah
- Day 11: Depart for the UK
The Hijrah Route / Map
About the Academics
Prof. Abdullah Alkadi spent several years researching the Hijrah route with the aim of identifying it as accurately as possible. His work involved extensive field expeditions, GPS mapping, landmark identification, distance calculations, and walking much of the route himself. Drawing on Hadith, Seerah literature, historical maps and documents, and interviews with local residents, he carefully cross-checked all sources. Through this rigorous approach, detailed in his book Makkah to Madinah – A Photographic Journey of the Hijrah Route, he was able to map the Hijrah of Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him) with exceptional precision.
The Hijrah: From Makkah to Madinah
During the blessed Hijrah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, the travellers journeyed north through valleys and lava tracts east of the main caravan routes, passing through al-Ghawla, ʿUwayjah, and west of Mount Jumdān. On a later journey, the Prophet ﷺ referred to Jumdān saying it had “surpassed the mufridūn”—those who remember Allah often, as narrated by Abu Hurayrah.
The journey continued toward the Valley of ʿAmj and along the western edge of nearby lava fields until the group reached the tents of Umm Maʿbad al-Khuzaʿiyyah in the Valley of Qudayd. Despite a time of drought, the Prophet ﷺ miraculously provided milk from a frail goat. This encounter inspired Umm Maʿbad’s renowned description of the Prophet ﷺ, one of the most detailed accounts of his character and appearance.
After resting, the travellers proceeded through the Valley of Qudayd and along the caravan route bordering the lava tract of al-Mushallal. In the Valley of Khulayya, the Qurayshi tracker Suraqah ibn Malik pursued the Prophet ﷺ after the Quraysh placed a reward for his capture, but was miraculously stopped when his horse sank into the sand.
The journey then passed through al-Kharrār and by Al-Juhfah, later established as a miqāt for pilgrims from Syria and Egypt. Today, its remains include Abbasid-era basalt ruins.
On the third day, Wednesday 14 September (3 Rabīʿ al-Awwal), the travellers again passed through al-Kharrār, reaching the well-known landmark of Khum Creek.
50% non refundable deposit is to be paid on registration. The remaining 50% to be paid 6 weeks before the event.
After registering, please open your fundraising page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the registration fee?
The registration fee covers everything you need for a complete marathon experience. This includes international flights, accommodation at the Hashimi 4★ Hotel (based on four people sharing), your marathon entry, all transfers within Palestine, a full day trip in Jerusalem, and a finisher medal to celebrate your achievement.
Is it safe to travel to Palestine and run the marathon?
We understand that many participants may have safety concerns. The decision to go to the marathon in Palestine will only be finalised once we have assessed the on-the-ground conditions and obtained all necessary assurances from local authorities and partners. If the event goes ahead, we will share up-to-date safety information and guidance with everyone registered, including recommended travel advice, accommodation options, and contact resources. Your safety and well-being are our top priority.
What if I am a beginner runner?
Don’t worry! Our marathon group welcomes runners of all levels, including beginners. You’ll be surrounded by supportive participants who will motivate you, guide you, and help you train so that you’re ready for the event. With the right preparation and encouragement, you’ll be able to enjoy the experience and cross the finish line with confidence.
What is the fundraising cause?
All funds raised through the Palestine Marathon go directly towards delivering critical aid in Gaza. This includes essential support such as food packs, hygiene kits, clean water, and baby food, helping to provide vital assistance to families in need.
What happens if I don’t hit my fundraising target?
We’re here to support you throughout your fundraising journey, and most participants reach their goal with time to spare. However, please note that a minimum of 80% of the fundraising target must be raised before the event date. If this minimum isn’t met, you may be excluded from taking part, or, if you prefer, you can personally cover the remaining amount to secure your place. We’ll do our best to help you get there!
What happens if the event gets cancelled, and do I get a refund?
Refunds will only be issued if the official marathon organisers cancel the event.