AlUla – A Land of Ancient Prophets and Divine Signs

AlUla, located in northwestern Saudi Arabia, is home to Mada’in Salih (Al-Hijr), the land of Thamud, a nation destroyed by Allah due to their arrogance and disobedience. This site, mentioned in the Quran, serves as a powerful reminder of what happens when people reject the message of Allah.

While AlUla has gained attention as a historical landmark, Islamic teachings caution against visiting such ruins casually. Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) warned his companions about entering the land of Thamud, advising them to pass through quickly, with humility and fear of Allah.

In this blog, we will explore the Islamic significance of AlUla, the story of Thamud, and the prophetic warning against visiting their ruins.

1. The Story of Thamud and Prophet Saleh (AS)

The Thamud were an ancient people blessed with great strength and the ability to carve homes into mountains. However, they became arrogant and disbelieved in Allah, despite being sent Prophet Saleh (AS) as a guide.

Allah granted them a clear miracle: a she-camel that emerged from a rock, as a test of their faith. Instead of obeying Allah, they killed the she-camel and challenged Saleh (AS).

Allah says in the Quran:

"And to Thamud [We sent] their brother Saleh. He said, 'O my people, worship Allah; you have no deity other than Him. There has come to you a clear evidence from your Lord. This is the she-camel of Allah [sent] to you as a sign. So leave her to eat within Allah’s land, and do not touch her with harm, lest there seize you a painful punishment.'" (Quran 7:73)

Due to their defiance and disbelief, Allah sent a mighty earthquake and thunderous blast, destroying them completely.

"So the earthquake seized them, and they became within their home [corpses] fallen prone." (Quran 7:78)

The ruins of AlUla today stand as a warning to mankind about the consequences of rejecting Allah’s guidance.

2. The Islamic Ruling on Visiting AlUla (Mada’in Salih)

Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) explicitly warned against visiting the ruins of Thamud without reflection and fear of Allah.

When the Prophet (ﷺ) and his companions passed through Mada’in Salih, they stopped to drink from its wells. However, upon realizing where they were, the Prophet ordered them to throw away the water and not use it.

He said:

"Do not enter the dwellings of those who wronged themselves unless you are weeping, lest what befell them befall you." (Sahih al-Bukhari 3381, Sahih Muslim 2980)

This hadith makes it clear that casual tourism or sightseeing at such sites is not encouraged in Islam. Instead, if one must pass through, it should be with:

✅ A heavy heart, remembering the punishment of Allah.

✅ Fear of Allah’s wrath, seeking His protection.

✅ The intention to reflect and not for leisure or entertainment.

Scholars emphasize that Mada’in Salih should not be visited as a tourist destination because:

It was a place of divine punishment.

The Prophet (ﷺ) advised against staying there.

Visiting out of mere curiosity or adventure contradicts the prophetic guidance.

Thus, while non-Muslims may see AlUla as a historical wonder, Muslims must view it as a lesson and a sign from Allah.

Ruins of AlUla

3. The Lessons from AlUla and the People of Thamud

1) Arrogance and Disobedience Lead to Destruction

The people of Thamud were intelligent and strong, yet their pride led them to reject Allah. Their story reminds us that no matter how advanced a nation becomes, power and wealth cannot protect anyone from Allah’s punishment.

2) The Importance of Obeying Allah’s Commands

Prophet Saleh (AS) gave his people a clear sign from Allah, yet they refused to listen. This teaches us that rejecting Allah’s guidance leads to ruin, in both this life and the Hereafter.

3) The Danger of Ignoring Prophetic Warnings

The Prophet (ﷺ) specifically warned against visiting the ruins of AlUla except with fear and reflection. Ignoring his guidance could expose one to the same fate as past nations who were heedless of Allah’s warnings.

4) The Signs of Allah Are Everywhere

Allah has left countless signs in history, nature, and the Quran to guide us. AlUla is one such reminder of the temporary nature of this world and the ultimate justice of Allah.

"And on the earth are signs for those who have certainty." (Quran 51:20)

Conclusion

AlUla is not just an ancient site; it is a land of warning. The ruins of Thamud stand as a reminder of Allah’s power, the dangers of arrogance, and the consequences of disobedience.

As Muslims, we should not view it as a tourist attraction but rather as a lesson in faith and humility. If one must pass through AlUla, it should be with fear of Allah and reflection upon His signs, not for leisure or entertainment.

May Allah grant us wisdom to learn from history and keep us on the straight path. Ameen.