Indian man walks more than 8,500km to perform Hajj

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Shihabudeen Sayid Alawi covered a distance of 8,640 kilometers, crossing five countries and receiving heartwarming support and encouragement from local communities along the way. (Supplied)
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Updated 20 June 2023
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Indian man walks more than 8,500km to perform Hajj

  • ‘Lifelong dream’ to travel on foot to Makkah
  • Shihabudeen Sayid Alawi’s journey took a year

JEDDAH/RIYADH: An Indian man has fulfilled a lifelong dream to walk all the way from his hometown in Kerala to Makkah for Hajj — a distance of 8,640 kilometers.

Shihabudeen Sayid Alawi, also known as Shihab Chottur, crossed five countries — India, Pakistan, Iran, Iraq and Kuwait — to reach Makkah in one year and 17 days.

He left Kerala on June 2, 2022, and reached Makkah on June 7.




Shihabudeen Sayid Alawi covered a distance of 8,640 kilometers, crossing five countries and receiving heartwarming support and encouragement from local communities along the way. (Photo/Shihab Chottur)

“It was a Ramadan day when I made it to the Kuwaiti-Saudi borders at 5:17 a.m. I bent the knee and I touched the sands of Saudi Arabia,” Alawi told Arab News in an exclusive interview.

Alawi first traveled to Madinah. “I felt like my journey (was) accomplished once I reached the Prophet’s Mosque. I visited (the) Rawdah, and I was sure I would be able to reach Makkah and perform Hajj.”

HIGHLIGHTS

• Shihabudeen Sayid Alawi crossed five countries to reach Makkah: India, Pakistan, Iran, Iraq and Kuwait.

• He left Kerala on June 2, 2022, and reached Makkah, a year later, on June 7, 2023.

• The minimalist traveler carried a hiking stick and a backpack equipped with essentials.

• Alawi has more than 4.9 million followers on Instagram, 1.5 million on YouTube, and a verified Facebook page.

Once Alawi reached Makkah, he forgot all the challenges and hardships he had endured during the year-long journey. He “prayed for hours” for those who offered him support, and who had asked for prayers in front of the Kaaba. “I have prayed for the entire Muslim Ummah.”

Speaking of his journey, Alawi said: “In India and Pakistan, people supported me and gathered around me. In Iran and Iraq no one recognized me, but once I crossed the Kuwaiti borders people who knew about the journey started contacting me, asking to see me and supporting me.”

“At every country I stopped by I received assistance from officials, police, military, and those who recognized me, invited me over to stay at their homes.”




"I used money from my savings for this trip, but I could hardly use that money as my Muslim brothers from all the countries I have crossed took good care of me all the time", Alawi told Arab News in an exclusive interview. (Photo/Social Media)

The 31-year-old father of three daughters said he took a year to prepare for the arduous journey. To ensure smooth access to all the countries he needed to cross, Alawi visited diplomatic missions in New Delhi to obtain visas.

“I had a legal visa in all countries. Iran gave me an entry visa, Pakistan gave me a transit visa, and Kuwait police also gave me clearance, and for Saudi Arabia, I received a multiple-entry visa. Authorities here gave me a warm welcome. I have got all facilities to perform Hajj through one of (the) Hajj service providers who offered me an A-category. This shows the great love that Saudi authorities deliver to all Hajj pilgrims. I am so grateful,” he said.

The minimalist traveler carried a hiking stick, and a backpack equipped with four items of clothing, pepper spray to protect himself from wild animals, an extra pair of shoes, utensils, official documents and some money for Hajj.




Shihabudeen Sayid Alawi, the Indian man who walked 6,000 miles to perform Hajj, is pictured with the Indian consul general in Jeddah, Mohammed Shahid Alam. (Photo/Shihab Chottur)

“I used branded shoes for walking, I used six pairs before I crossed into Pakistan because it was the monsoon in India. After that, I used only one pair till I reached Madinah.”

“I used money from my savings for this trip, but I could hardly use that money as my Muslim brothers from all the countries I have crossed took good care of me all the time,” he said.

During his solo walking trip, Alawi lost 18 kilograms. He said he only ate traditional food which he described as “good for (the) soul and body.”

To reach Makkah and Madinah was my dream, and to reach there by footsteps was my goal.

Shihabudeen Sayid Alawi, Indian pilgrim

“No proteins or special food. If I got halal food, I ate it. I was utterly comfortable and mentally relaxed.”

While Alawi explored different cultures and cuisines along the route, he also had to brave nature’s various dangers.

“There were circumstances of fear often, mainly due to the presence of wild animals like tigers, bears and more. In Iran, I saw the footprints of some wild animals and I recorded what I saw with my phone camera. But only when I showed it to some people there, I realized it was footprints of a tiger. After that incident, fear started to develop inside my mind,” he said.

He added: “In Iran, it was a different experience as I had to walk across the entire Iran in snow solo, the weather condition was changing every now and then, and that was the main challenge.”

“I stayed once on a goat farm with shepherds. Those who invited me to their homes gave me food and shelter in Iran and Iraq knowing that I am a Muslim traveler.”

Alawi was motivated by his strong faith and trust in Allah. “To reach Makkah and Madinah was my dream, and to reach there by footsteps was my goal. I kept my goal always in front of my eyes and I worked hard for it and it came true.”

Alawi said he wants to be an example to others. “Many people were inspired to perform Hajj because of this journey. Hajj is a holy ritual, and I want to inspire others to perform Hajj no matter what.”

Alawi would often share snippets of his journey on social media, where he has more than 4.9 million followers on Instagram, 1.5 million on YouTube, and a verified Facebook page.


Saudi fashion event highlights retail trends, youth culture, and digital innovation

Updated 04 May 2025
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Saudi fashion event highlights retail trends, youth culture, and digital innovation

  • Speakers noted that the increase in entertainment activities such as concerts and dining in the Kingdom in recent years has led to higher demand for fashion products because people are looking for ways to express themselves

RIYADH: A Riyadh fashion seminar on Sunday brought together industry leaders and creatives to explore the future of Saudi Arabia’s fashion economy.

Hosted by Chalhoub Group at Lakum Art Space, the event featured keynote presentations, panel discussions, and displays by 10 emerging Saudi designers from The Fashion Lab Cohort 2.

Rafi Dikranian and Mohammed Bajbaa speak on “From Drops to Drives: Connecting with Communities,” exploring how culture, streetwear, and grassroots branding are reshaping consumer engagement. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

The agenda focused on three main themes: the evolution of fashion retail in the Kingdom; the role of cultural identity in building brands; and the rising importance of digital fashion and collaboration.

An awards ceremony honored the standout talents of this year’s cohort: APOA, Awaken, Bucketbox, Mona Al-Shebil, Noble & Fresh, Nora Al-Shaikh, Rebirth, Samar Nasraldin, The Untitled Project and USCITA.

FASTFACT

Hosted by Chalhoub Group at Lakum Art Space, the event featured keynote presentations, panel discussions, and displays by 10 emerging Saudi designers from The Fashion Lab Cohort 2.

One discussion explored consumer behavior in Saudi Arabia, revealing that the local market continues to grow despite global slowdowns.

Saudi brands that blend cultural heritage with bold innovation, as featured in the latest Fashion Lab showcase. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

Speakers noted that the increase in entertainment activities such as concerts and dining in the Kingdom in recent years has led to higher demand for fashion products because people are looking for ways to express themselves.

Retail experiences — both physical and digital — were emphasized as key to engaging Saudi consumers.

Michael Chalhoub, CEO of Chalhoub Group, delivers the opening keynote at The Fashion Seminar 2025, highlighting the importance of creativity and cross-sector collaboration in shaping the future of Saudi fashion. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

Youth culture, streetwear and sports are shaping brand narratives, a panel heard. Speakers discussed how fashion is being used as a tool for cultural storytelling, with an emphasis on grassroots creativity and community building.

Another topic highlighted the power of collaboration between local and international brands. Panelists discussed the importance of long-term partnerships, manufacturing localization, and mentorship to bridge gaps in knowledge and infrastructure.

Speakers also addressed the future of digital fashion, including virtual design, retail innovation, and new marketing strategies targeting Gen Z.

Saudi Arabia’s growing role in shaping the regional and global fashion economy was a prominent theme of the discussions.

 

 


First Saudi-Maldives forum to tackle transparency, governance in tourism

Updated 04 May 2025
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First Saudi-Maldives forum to tackle transparency, governance in tourism

  • Discussions aim to support sustainable development, promote safe tourism environment

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia — in partnership with the Maldives — is organizing the tourism sector’s inaugural Saudi-Maldives International Forum on Integrity, which is set to take place in the Maldives from May 6 to 7.

The forum is jointly organized by Saudi Arabia’s Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority, and the Maldives’ Anti-Corruption Commission, in cooperation with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

It will cover key topics such as enhancing transparency and governance in the tourism sector, combating corruption, and boosting international partnerships and expertise exchange among member states and regional and international organizations.

The discussions aim to support sustainable development and promote a trustworthy and safe tourism environment, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The forum is expected to attract international participation from more than 40 countries and 10 regional and international organizations.

Attendees will include ministers, heads, and representatives of anti-corruption bodies from OIC member states, as well as key international organizations like the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, Interpol, the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities, and the UN Development Programme. Local and international experts will also take part.

Organizing the forum reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to global efforts promoting transparency and accountability in tourism, according to the SPA.

The event highlights Saudi Arabia’s recognition of tourism as a key driver of sustainable development, in line with Vision 2030. It aims to build a thriving tourism sector, diversify national income sources, and stimulate economic growth.

 


Saudi deputy minister receives Pakistan’s ambassador

Waleed Elkhereiji (R) holds talks with Ahmed Farooq in Riyadh. (Supplied)
Updated 04 May 2025
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Saudi deputy minister receives Pakistan’s ambassador

  • They discussed bilateral relations as well as prominent developments in regional and international arenas

RIYADH: Saudi Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Waleed Elkhereiji received Pakistan’s Ambassador to the Kingdom Ahmed Farooq in Riyadh on Sunday.

During the meeting, they discussed bilateral relations as well as prominent developments in regional and international arenas, the Foreign Ministry wrote on X.

Meanwhile, Saudi Deputy Minister for International Multilateral Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Rassi received EU Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Christophe Varno in Riyadh.

 


Iraqi president invites King Salman to upcoming Arab summits in Baghdad

Updated 04 May 2025
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Iraqi president invites King Salman to upcoming Arab summits in Baghdad

  • Invitation was delivered to Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan by Iraqi counterpart

RIYADH: King Salman received an official invitation from Iraqi President Abdullatif Jamal Rashid on Sunday to attend the 34th regular session of the Arab League Council at the summit level, as well as the fifth Arab Economic and Social Development Summit, both set to be hosted by Iraq later this month.

The invitation was delivered to Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan during a meeting in Riyadh with Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Mohammed Hussein, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The two officials discussed ties between the two countries and reviewed key regional and international developments.

The meeting was also attended by Saud Al-Sati, Undersecretary of the Ministry for Political Affairs.


Riyadh conference discusses future of occupational health

Event was inaugurated by Ahmed Al-Rajhi, minister of human resources and social development.
Updated 04 May 2025
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Riyadh conference discusses future of occupational health

  • Minister launches initiatives to enhance Kingdom’s workplace safety

RIYADH: The seventh Global Occupational Safety and Health Conference opened in Riyadh on Sunday under the theme “The Future of Occupational Safety and Health.”

The three-day event was inaugurated by Ahmed Al-Rajhi, minister of human resources and social development and chairman of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health.

Al-Rajhi launched initiatives to enhance Saudi Arabia’s occupational safety and health system, including the establishment of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the National Compliance and Excellence Incentives Program, and the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Guide.

Al-Rajhi said that work-related deaths in Saudi Arabia have dropped to less than one per 100,000 workers since the council’s establishment.

Meanwhile, the number of locals in occupational safety and health roles has risen by 130 percent, reaching more than 29,000 by the end of 2024, compared with 2022.

Al-Rajhi also highlighted improvements in safety compliance and automation. “The compliance rate with safety standards reached 72 percent by the end of 2024, and the automation of safety procedures exceeded 62 percent, up from 30 percent in 2020.”

The conference draws high-ranking officials, experts and specialists from Saudi Arabia and worldwide to discuss the future of occupational safety and health, as well as the challenges and opportunities in global labor markets.

It covers six key themes: workplace sustainability; digitization and technology in occupational safety; the economics of safety; the future of research and innovation; emerging challenges; and human behavior and safety culture.

This focus reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to improving work environments and achieving professional standards in line with global best practices, a key goal of Saudi Vision 2030.

The event highlights national efforts, displays modern technical trends, supports specialized research, and promotes the Kingdom’s legislative framework to international standards, contributing to the success of major national projects.

Al-Rajhi referred to international reports on workplace challenges. “International reports highlight the serious challenges facing work environments globally. Approximately 3 million worker deaths are recorded each year due to accidents and occupational diseases.”

He said about “395 million non-fatal work injuries occur annually. Statistics show 23 million injuries and 19,000 deaths from heat stress, and 15 percent of workers globally suffer from mental disorders related to stressful work environments.”

The conference program includes specialized scientific sessions, 60 workshops, 20 dialogue sessions, and the Global Occupational Safety and Health Hackathon, where 30 innovative projects are being presented.

An accompanying exhibition features local and international organizations, with several significant agreements expected and new initiatives to advance the Kingdom’s occupational safety system.

The ministry also emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to securing a healthy work environment and ensuring worker safety, which enhances labor market competitiveness and overall quality of life.

Al-Rajhi said: “In line with Vision 2030, we aim to make work environments safer, higher quality, and more attractive. This supports employee well-being, boosts labor market competitiveness, and fosters a culture of safety and sustainability. Therefore, the Kingdom established the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health.”

The General Organization for Social Insurance launched a directory for occupational safety and health standards at the conference, serving as a unified reference for specialists, establishments, and relevant entities in the Kingdom.

This initiative aims to enhance safety and health standards while protecting workers from occupational hazards, as part of its broader strategy.

Based on international best practices, the directory provides clear preventive standards to help reduce injuries and hazards.

It covers more than 4,500 standards in six main sectors: public industries; construction; agriculture; maritime activities; transport; and mining. It also classifies more than 70 sectors based on the national directory of economic activities.