Bait Al Ula.

Yes, there is a historical incident related to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) that discouraged his followers from settling in or visiting certain parts of AlUla. This incident is tied to Hegra (Mada’in Salih), a site in AlUla associated with the ancient Thamud civilization, which the Qur’an mentions as a community destroyed due to their arrogance and rejection of divine guidance.

The Story of the Thamud

The Thamud were an ancient Arab tribe that inhabited the region of AlUla and were known for carving homes and tombs into the rocks. They are mentioned in the Qur’an multiple times as a people who were sent the prophet Salih (peace be upon him).

According to Islamic tradition, the Thamud disobeyed Salih and defied a clear sign from Allah in the form of a miraculous she-camel. Their defiance led to their destruction by a severe punishment, leaving their dwellings abandoned.


Prophet Muhammad’s Guidance

During one of the Prophet Muhammad’s journeys, he and his companions passed through the area of Hegra (Mada’in Salih). Upon stopping there, he gave specific instructions:

1. Avoid Drinking or Using the Water: He discouraged his companions from drinking the water from the wells of Hegra or using it for any purpose. The Prophet allowed them to feed their animals with the water they already had but prohibited them from consuming anything from the cursed area.


2. Reflect with Caution: He reminded them that this was a place of divine punishment and advised them to reflect on the fate of the Thamud and to pass through quickly, feeling a sense of humility and awe at Allah’s power.


3. Avoid Staying Overnight: The Prophet discouraged his followers from staying in the area longer than necessary, emphasizing that the site was a symbol of Allah’s wrath against disobedient nations.



Implications of the Incident

The incident highlights the importance of avoiding places associated with Allah’s punishment unless visiting them serves as a means to reflect and draw closer to Him. The Prophet’s guidance underscores humility, repentance, and awareness of Allah’s authority.

Although the region of AlUla has a rich and diverse history, this specific guidance applies primarily to Mada’in Salih due to its connection with the Thamud. Today, Muslims visiting AlUla can reflect on the broader lessons of these events while appreciating the area’s historical and archaeological significance.