Our Journey to Saudi ArabiaÂ
Oct 21, 2025
Leaving our home in Babylon, we set out as a family—my wife, my little two daughters, and I— on a journey that would take us across borders, deserts, and holy cities, all the way to Mecca.
The road carried us from Babylon to Karbala, then onward to the Arar border crossing. Crossing into Saudi Arabia felt like stepping into a new chapter of adventure. We passed through Dumat Al-Jandal, with its historic aura, before reaching Tabuk.
That first night, we camped in a public park in Tabuk. The cool evening breeze, the laughter of my daughters, and the quiet of the night made it feel like the perfect start.
One of the most magical stops was the Bajdah Wildlife Reserve. Watching gazelles roam freely and seeing the joy on my daughter’s face as she pointed at them was an unforgettable experience. Nature felt alive, and we felt part of it.
The second night found us in the desert of AlUla, camping beneath a sky filled with endless stars. The silence of the desert was profound, broken only by our voices and the crackle of the fire. It was a moment of peace and wonder.
The third and fourth nights were spent in Medina, where we stayed in a hotel. Visiting the Prophet’s Mosque was deeply moving. Walking through its courtyards, praying, and reflecting on history filled us with serenity. We also explored historical landmarks and browsed shops selling travel gear, adding a touch of everyday life to our spiritual journey.
Arriving in Mecca was the highlight. For two nights, we stayed in a hotel and performed Umrah. Standing before the Kaaba, surrounded by pilgrims from around the world, was a moment beyond words. It was the culmination of our journey, a mix of awe, gratitude, and humility.
From Mecca, we set out early toward Hail, arriving late at night. We camped at a caravan park, a different kind of adventure, where travelers gathered and shared stories under the night sky.
On our way home, we stopped in Arar for lunch, then continued through Karbala back to Babylon. The road was long, but our hearts were full.
This journey was more than travel. It was a blend of spiritual devotion, family adventure, and natural discovery. My daughter’s laughter while watching gazelles, the quiet nights under desert stars, and the sacred moments in Medina and Mecca—all became threads in the fabric of our memories.
We returned home not only with souvenirs but with stories, emotions, and experiences that will stay with us forever.
Mecca
Bajdah wildlife reserve
AlUla Night
Arar Border
March 30, 2025
On the first day of Eid, our family—my wife, my daughters, and I— set out for a short but unforgettable trip to Halabja, near the Iranian border. The destination was the entrance of the Sirwan River, surrounded by mountains, green fields, and breathtaking landscapes.
The scenery was magical:
Endless carpets of wildflowers
Rolling green meadows
Sparkling lakes nestled between the mountains
The majestic Sirwan River flows through the valley
Everywhere we looked, nature was alive with color and freshness.
Because it was the first day of Eid, all the shops were closed. We couldn’t buy sweets or little gifts for the children, which they had been looking forward to. At first, it felt disappointing, but soon the joy of being together in such a beautiful place made up for it. My daughters laughed and played among the flowers, and their happiness became the sweetest gift of all.
We spent two nights surrounded by nature. The cool mountain air, the sound of the river, and the sight of the stars above us created an atmosphere of peace and celebration. It was a different kind of Eid—simple, pure, and full of family love.
This trip reminded us that sometimes the best memories are not found in shops or gifts, but in the moments we share together. Halabja gave us beauty, serenity, and joy, and we returned home with hearts full of gratitude and unforgettable memories.