The Saudi Arabian government is making changes to how people visit historical sites in the country, and it seems like they might start charging for entry. They are also launching a website where you can book tickets to visit these places in Makkah, including the Cave of Hira, which is currently free to visit.
They’re also planning to improve more than 100 historic sites in Mecca and Medina, two holy cities where millions of pilgrims come each year for religious reasons. They haven’t revealed the names of these sites yet.
Some of the historical sites they plan to develop are:
- The Cave of Hira: This is where the Prophet Muhammad received his first message from Allah.
- The Quba Mosque: The very first mosque ever built in Islam.
- The Seven Mosques: Seven mosques constructed by the Prophet Muhammad during his lifetime.
- The Uhud Mountain: The site of the Battle of Uhud.
- The Khandaq Trench: A trench dug by Muslims for protection from Meccan attackers.
In the past, Saudi religious authorities were criticized for destroying many historical sites, but it seems they are now allowing more access to them.
Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq Al Rabiah, announced these plans. He mentioned that they want to make the experience of pilgrims richer and more memorable in both Mecca and Medina, which have a rich history that Muslims are eager to learn about.
This change is expected to help the local economy, create jobs, and provide pilgrims and visitors with a chance to explore the history of Islam. It’s part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and promote cultural tourism. This move also aligns with the Crown Prince’s goal of promoting a more moderate form of Islam in Saudi Arabia.
