The Story of Mount Arafat (Jabal al-Rahmah)... Where the Religion Was Perfected

On the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah in the 10th year of the Hijrah, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stood upon the rocks of this mountain in Arafat, facing a sea of over one hundred thousand companions. It was a pivotal moment in history—from this very mountain, the Prophet ﷺ delivered his Farewell Sermon, proclaiming the timeless principles of Islam.

The Beginning:

The mountain was originally known as Jabal Ilal (the Mountain of Supplication) or Jabal al-Duʿāʾ (the Mountain of Prayer). However, after the Farewell Pilgrimage, it became renowned as Jabal al-Rahmah (the Mountain of Mercy), for it was here that Allah showered His mercy upon the Muslims. Historical accounts relate that the Prophet ﷺ ascended the mountain at midday, seated himself beneath a tree, and then began his monumental sermon.

The Eternal Sermon:

The Prophet ﷺ stood before the masses, declaring: "O people, listen to my words..." He then outlined the foundational principles of Islam:

• The equality of all human beings

• The sanctity of life and property

• The rights of women

• The unity of the Muslim Ummah

• Holding fast to the Qur’an and Sunnah

The Divine Revelation:

Amid this awe-inspiring scene, the words of Allah were revealed:
"This day I have perfected for you your religion, completed My favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion." (Qur’an 5:3)
Upon hearing this, the companions wept, overwhelmed by the magnitude of the moment.

After the Sermon:

Following the sermon, the Prophet ﷺ received revelation that this would be his final Hajj—hence its name, Ḥajjat al-Wadāʿ (the Farewell Pilgrimage). From that day forward, the mountain became a sacred site, visited by pilgrims every year on the Day of Arafah.

The Mountain Today:

The rock where the Prophet ﷺ stood remains a distinctive landmark, and ascending the mountain has become a recommended act (Sunnah) for pilgrims. They stand in prayer and supplication, just as the Prophet and his companions did. Despite the passage of over 1,400 years, Jabal al-Rahmah retains its solemnity and sanctity—a silent witness to the day when the religion was perfected.

Mount Rahmah

Mount Thor

The Story of Mount Thawr: The Prophet's ﷺ and Abu Bakr's Sanctuary

In the heart of Makkah, the towering Mount Thawr stands as a witness to one of the greatest stories of faith and perseverance in Islamic history. Rising 728 meters high, this mountain was not merely a geological formation—it became the first stop in the Prophet’s Hijrah (migration), divinely chosen as a refuge for the Prophet ﷺ and his companion Abu Bakr al-Siddiq.

The Miracle of the Cave

As the persecution by the Quraysh intensified, threatening the Prophet’s ﷺ mission, Allah permitted him to migrate to Medina. On the night of their departure, the Prophet ﷺ and Abu Bakr took shelter in the Cave of Thawr for three days (1st to 4th Safar, 14 years after the Prophethood). During this time, the polytheists searched for them relentlessly—even reaching the mouth of the cave—yet Allah blinded their sight by His divine will.

Miracles That Protected Them

• A spider spun its web across the cave’s entrance overnight.

• A dove laid eggs near the entrance.

• A tree suddenly grew in front of the cave.
  These extraordinary signs led the Quraysh to believe the cave had been abandoned for years.

Timeless Words of Faith

In a moment of fear, Abu Bakr whispered: "If any of them were to look down at his feet, he would see us."
The Prophet ﷺ replied with unshakable conviction:
"What do you think of two whose third is Allah?" (Sahih al-Bukhari & Muslim)
These words became an eternal testament to trust in Allah during trials.

Mount Thawr Today

Now a revered site for Muslims, the mountain offers:

• The cave, with an entrance height of 1.25 meters

• A stairway of 640 steps leading to the summit

• A climb lasting ~1.5 hours

• A location just 4 km south of the Grand Mosque

Lessons from the Cave

1. The Prophet’s ﷺ and Abu Bakr’s steadfastness in the darkest hour.

2. Divine support manifests in unexpected ways.

3. True reliance on Allah requires both trust and action.

4. Patience through hardship paves the path to victory.

A visitor to the cave once shared:
"When you enter that narrow space, you feel the weight of Islamic history—as if hearing the whispers of the Prophet and his companion, praying in the darkness."

Mount Thawr is not just rock and stone—it is a spiritual classroom, reminding us that triumph follows patience, and relief comes after adversity.

Jabal al-Nour

Jabal al-Nour: Where the Dawn of Islam Emerged

In the northeast of Makkah, Jabal al-Nour ("Mountain of Light") rises majestically as a witness to the most sacred moment in history. This silent mountain was the stage for the monumental event that changed the course of humanity. Here, in the Cave of Hira, the first divine revelation descended upon the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, marking the beginning of Islam’s illuminating message to the world.

The Story of the Prophetic Mission:

• Before prophethood, the Prophet ﷺ often retreated to Cave Hira for meditation and worship.

• On Monday, 17 Ramadan, 13 years before Hijrah (610 CE), while he was in the cave,

• The Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) appeared with the first verses of the Qur’an:
  "Read in the name of your Lord who created—" (Qur’an 96:1)

• The Prophet ﷺ returned to his wife Khadijah, trembling, saying: "Cover me, cover me!"

Secrets of Jabal al-Nour:

• Height: 642 meters

• Distance from Masjid al-Haram: 4 km

• Climb duration: ~1.5 hours

• Cave dimensions: Small (approx. 4 cubits long and 1.3 cubits wide)

Why Is It Called "Mountain of Light"?

The name reflects:

• The descent of the first divine light (revelation)

• The radiance of guidance that spread worldwide

• Its role in humanity’s transition from darkness of ignorance to the light of knowledge

Visiting the Mountain Today:

The mountain attracts visitors who:

• Climb 1,750 steps to reach the cave

• Reflect on the site of the first revelation

• Recite the Qur’an where it was first revealed

• Feel the magnitude of that historic moment

Lessons from Cave Hira:

1. The importance of solitude and contemplation of Allah’s creation.

2. Great change can begin in the smallest of places.

3. Patience in seeking wisdom through hardship.

4. The eternal miracle of the Qur’an.

A visitor once shared:
"Sitting inside Cave Hira, time seems to freeze—as if you’re witnessing that very moment when Islam’s light first radiated from these rocks."

Jabal al-Nour is not merely a geological wonder; it is a symbol of divine beginnings, an eternal spiritual classroom reminding us that:

• The greatest journeys start from humble origins.

• True enlightenment comes from divine guidance.

The Birthplace of the Prophet ﷺ

The Birthplace of the Prophet ﷺ: A Witness to the Birth of the Best of Mankind

In the heart of Makkah, within the district of Shi‘b Abi Talib (now known as Al-Ma‘lāt), stands the house of Āminah bint Wahb—where the master of creation, Muhammad ﷺ, was born at dawn on Monday, 12 Rabī‘ al-Awwal, in the Year of the Elephant (approximately April 20, 571 CE). This historic site carries in its very atoms the memory of the birth of the greatest man who transformed the course of history.

Description of the Birth House:

• A modest dwelling of small rooms built from stone and clay

• Located near Jabal Abi Qubays, in the area historically known as "Darb al-Mawlid"

• Later transformed into the Makkah Library during the Saudi era

Details of His Birth ﷺ:

1. Born an orphan (his father, ‘Abdullāh, passed away months before his birth)

2. Narrations describe a light emanating from his mother Āminah at his birth, illuminating the palaces of Syria

3. Nursed by Halīmah al-Sa‘diyyah of the Banī Sa‘d tribe days after his birth

4. Extraordinary events accompanied his birth:

   • The extinguishing of the Persian fire temples

   • The collapse of the terraces of Kisra’s palace

The Site Today:

• The original house’s location now houses a library preserving historical manuscripts

• Markers highlight the site’s significance for visitors

• Some visit the place seeking blessings (though Islamic tradition does not prescribe visits to such sites except for historical reflection)

A Lesson from the Birthplace:

Historians note: "Among destiny’s wonders is that the Prophet—born an orphan in a humble home—would become the master of all creation." This place reminds us that greatness is not measured by bricks and mortar, but by the message carried by that noble newborn: the call to Tawḥīd (Divine Oneness) and mercy for all worlds.

"We have only sent you as a mercy to the worlds." (Qur’an 21:107)

Mina

In a valley surrounded by mountains to the east of Mecca lies Mina, a place that has witnessed stories of prophecy and faith for thousands of years. It was here that Prophet Abraham stood, commanded by his Lord to sacrifice his son Ishmael — an act of obedience beyond imagination. Mina became the site of the first great sacrifice in devotion to God. When Satan tried to whisper doubt into Abraham’s heart, he responded by throwing stones at him, an act now immortalized in the ritual of the stoning of the Jamarat.

Mina is more than land; it is a living memory of prophetic legacy. It was here that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) met the Ansar in the historic Pledge of Aqabah, planting the seed for the Islamic state. Later, during the Farewell Pilgrimage, he camped in Mina, delivering his famous sermon, laying down principles of justice and equality that would echo through time.

Today, Mina is filled with rows of fireproof white tents that host millions of pilgrims each year. Wrapped in white garments, people sleep under its sky, reflecting on sacrifice, obedience, and unity. Mina stands as a timeless witness to one of the world’s greatest annual spiritual gatherings, where people from every nation and tongue come together in peace, devotion, and remembrance.

In the heart of Makkah, near the revered Mount Hira where the first revelation descended upon Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, stands the "Revelation Exhibition" — a cultural and spiritual masterpiece that bridges history with modern creativity. This exhibition is more than just a display; it is an immersive journey that transports visitors back in time to the moment that changed the course of human history. The experience begins with a depiction of the Cave of Hira, capturing the awe and fear the Prophet felt during his first encounter with the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel).

Utilizing advanced visual and audio technology, the exhibition narrates the profound story of the divine revelation, illustrating how it evolved from a message whispered in the mountains of Makkah to a faith that spread across continents. Visitors walk through scenes enriched with multimedia, rare manuscripts, and historical artifacts, including early tools of writing and biographies of the companions who faithfully carried the message.

Every corner of the exhibition echoes with the greatness of that divine moment. It reminds visitors that revelation was not just a spiritual occurrence, but a transformative message that shaped values of justice, compassion, and knowledge. The Revelation Exhibition is a powerful blend of faith and education, bringing a monumental event to life in a way that resonates with the hearts and minds of all who witness it.

Revelation Exhibition

The Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 in Jeddah is a unique artistic and spiritual experience that bridges the rich heritage of Islamic art with contemporary creativity. Held under the theme "What Lies Between", inspired by the Quranic verse: “Lord of the heavens and the earth and what is between them, so worship Him”, the exhibition invites visitors to reflect on the connection between faith and art, and the beauty found in all that surrounds us.

Taking place in the Western Hajj Terminal at King Abdulaziz International Airport from January 25 to May 25, 2025, the Biennale features over 500 historical and modern artworks, with contributions from more than 30 artists from around the world. The displays include both ancient Islamic artifacts and innovative contemporary pieces, offering a rare opportunity to witness the evolution of Islamic art through the ages.

The exhibition is divided into seven main sections: "The Beginning," "The Orbit," "The Collector," "The Canopy," "Makkah," "Madinah," and "The Musalla." These are spread across expansive indoor galleries and outdoor spaces covering over 100,000 square meters. In addition to the exhibits, the Biennale offers educational programs and interactive workshops aimed at deepening public appreciation for Islamic arts and culture, making it an ideal destination for art lovers and cultural explorers alike.

For more details and ticket reservations, visit the official website: Islamic Arts Biennale 2025

The Islamic Arts Biennale

The International Exhibition and Museum of the Prophet’s Biography and Islamic Civilization is a pioneering cultural and educational initiative that offers an immersive journey into the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the rich legacy of Islamic civilization. Supervised by the Muslim World League, the museum aims to present an accurate and comprehensive portrayal of the Prophet’s noble character, teachings, and the values of Islam using state-of-the-art technologies and creative storytelling techniques.

Located in multiple cities, including Makkah, Madinah, and Rabat, the museum features interactive exhibits that bring to life various aspects of the Prophet’s life. Visitors can explore detailed presentations of his attire, food, gestures, names, attributes, and the beauty of his character. One of the highlights includes a precise simulation of the Holy Chamber, offering insights into its features and the events it witnessed during the Prophet’s life .

The museum also showcases a 3D exhibit on the Prophet’s life in Makkah and Madinah, highlighting major landmarks with innovative techniques. Additional sections delve into prophetic medicine, the status of women during the Prophet’s era, and the trajectory of his migration to Medina .

The International Exhibition and Museum of the Prophet’s Biography and Islamic

The Abdullah ibn Abbas Mosque is located in the heart of the historic district of Taif and is one of the oldest and most important mosques in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The mosque is attributed to the noble companion Abdullah ibn Abbas, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), who was buried next to him after his death in Taif. It is said that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) prayed in this spot during his siege of the Thaqif tribe during the Battle of Hunayn, giving it a special spiritual and historical significance.

The mosque was founded in the sixth century AH during the Abbasid era and has undergone numerous expansions and renovations over the centuries, most notably during the Ottoman era, when an Ottoman minaret was added. During the Saudi era, it underwent comprehensive restorations and major expansions, particularly during the reigns of King Saud and King Faisal.

Today, the mosque spans an area of ​​more than 15,000 square meters and can accommodate more than 11,000 worshippers. It includes a prayer hall for women that can accommodate more than 1,000 worshippers. The mosque also contains a scientific library, considered one of the most prominent Islamic libraries, with halls for reading, lessons, and lectures.

The mosque is a vital center for Quran memorization classes and religious lessons, and is particularly active during Ramadan. It is a living testament to Taif's Islamic history and a religious and cultural landmark visited by visitors and researchers from within and outside the Kingdom.

The Abdullah ibn Abbas Mosque

Gift market at a cheaper price than usual

Kakiyah Wholesale Market

Cable car starting from the top of Al Hada Mountains in Taif to the bottom of Taif Valley

Taif cable car

A mountain overlooking the city of Mecca and is considered one of its highest mountains

Mount Khandama

In the heart of Saudi Arabia, nestled among the green Sarawat Mountains, lies the Taif Governorate, known for its captivating beauty and rare nature. One of the governorate's most famous features is the cultivation of unique roses.

In the Al Hada and Al Shafa regions and their surrounding areas, there are Taif Rose Farms, open to visitors from inside and outside the Kingdom. They offer visitors the chance to spend a wonderful time surrounded by nature, escaping the hustle and bustle of the city and relaxing in an oasis of vibrant colors and fragrant natural scents.

Upon arriving at a rose farm nestled among the heights of the Al Hada and Al Shafa Mountains, you will be greeted warmly and friendly by the farm's staff, ensuring a pleasant and relaxing experience. They offer you the opportunity to enjoy a tour of the farm and explore its vast expanses filled with a variety of vibrantly colored roses.

After your tour of the farm, you can relax in the café, which offers a variety of delicious and refreshing drinks in the open air. Enjoy the breathtaking views and the scent of the roses surrounding you, which will leave you feeling calm and relaxed while you enjoy a cup of fresh coffee or aromatic tea. Of course, your visit to a rose farm in Taif cannot be complete without savoring a delicious breakfast amidst the roses. The farm team will provide you with a delicious and nutritious meal consisting of a variety of delicious dishes prepared from local organic produce, as this region is famous for its diverse fruit orchards.

In parallel with the farms, Taif is home to advanced factories manufacturing Taif rose products. These factories rely on the latest technologies in rose processing and the manufacture of cosmetics, aromatic oils, health products, and pharmaceuticals extracted from these native flowers. Taif rose products are internationally renowned for their high quality and wide variety of uses.

Taif Rose Farms

The Two Holy Mosques Exhibition

The Two Holy Mosques Exhibition in Makkah is a unique museum that highlights the history of the Two Holy Mosques through a distinctive collection of artifacts and exhibits. Located in the Umm Al-Joud neighborhood, it houses models and models illustrating the development of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque over the ages, as well as rare artifacts such as ancient columns and doors of the Kaaba, and historical Quranic manuscripts.

The exhibition is a unique cultural and educational destination for visitors and pilgrims, providing an interactive experience that highlights the historical and architectural aspects of the Two Holy Mosques.