AhlulBayt News Agency: Three Spanish Muslims are nearing the end of a 7-month horseback journey spanning over 8,000 kilometers from Spain to Saudi Arabia to fulfill their lifelong dream of performing the Hajj pilgrimage.
The group aims to retrace a historical route last used by Andalusian Muslims more than five centuries ago.
The travelers—Abdelkader Harkassi, Abdallah Hernandez, and Tariq Rodriguez—set out in October 2024 from Al-Monaster Mosque in southern Spain. They have journeyed across Europe and the Middle East, including France, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Serbia, Türkiye, Syria, and Jordan, before reaching Qurayyat in Saudi Arabia’s Al-Jawf Province on May 2.
Accompanied by Bouchaib Jadil, a construction professional based in Spain who provides logistical support by car, the team trained for two years in preparation for the pilgrimage. Their endeavor, named Hajj on Horseback, has attracted attention on social media, where they share updates and reflections on their journey.
During their stop in Qurayyat, the group was received by the head of Al-Haditha Center, Mamdouh Al-Mutairi, and welcomed by local residents who took photos and offered support. The pilgrims expressed their deep emotional anticipation as they approach the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.
In an interview with Arab News, Hernandez explained that his journey began with a promise he made after converting to Islam 35 years ago. He said their goal was not only spiritual but also historical: “Through this journey we want to recover a historical Andalusian route from Spain to the Harram of Mecca.”
Harkassi noted that the group saved money and prepared extensively to revive what they see as a lost tradition. He stated, “We embarked on this journey with pure intentions to realize the Hajj.”
The group has encountered a variety of challenges, particularly crossing borders, as transporting horses now requires them to be treated as imported livestock. Nevertheless, Hernandez said they have been able to complete the necessary documentation.
Support from local communities—both Muslim and non-Muslim—has helped sustain their mission. “We’ve been received with open arms everywhere we’ve gone,” said Hernandez, highlighting the warmth and hospitality they’ve experienced throughout their journey.
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