Dr Tarek Sari and a group of his fellow Muslim cyclists returned to Australia on Sunday 7 December after completing an extraordinary 510-kilometre ride between the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah – a journey inspired by faith, history and a deeply humanitarian purpose.
As previewed in AMUST’s December edition, the ride followed the completion of Umrah, with the aim of raising funds to support mothers and babies in Gaza, helping ensure safe pregnancies, supported births and care for children up to two years of age.
It was the first time in history that an Australian group of cyclists had performed this feat.
Speaking to AMUST after returning to Sydney, Dr Sari said the experience went beyond physical endurance.
“Eleven of the Sydney Muslim Cyclists teamed up with brother Imraan from Brisbane,” Dr Sari said.
“In Makkah, we met cyclists from Scotland, South Africa and the UK, and instantly we formed a bond – a connection – and more importantly, a brotherhood.”
Members of the Hijrah Ride team in Makkah, pictured after performing Umrah, with the Kaaba in the background.
Riders from those three countries (and Australia, of course) came together, united by faith and purpose.
Over four demanding days, the group cycled approximately 100 kilometres on day one, 150 on day two, 100 on day three and a gruelling 160 kilometres (exactly 100 miles) on the final day.
One of the most profound moments came when the group entered the famous town of Badr, which of course is etched deeply into Islamic history.
“When we entered Badr, we all felt a sense of calmness and tranquillity,” Dr Sari recalled. “Our hearts softened, and some of us had tears flowing.”
That emotional intensity reached its peak at the conclusion of the ride, as the cyclists arrived at Masjid Quba, the first mosque built in Islam, on the outskirts of Madinah.
The Hijrah Ride cyclists stand together in Badr, a town of profound historical and spiritual significance in Islam.
“When we entered Masjid Quba, brothers from all countries embraced one another,” Dr Sari said.
“Tears were flowing as though the taps were left on as our hearts had united through four days and 510 kilometres.”
The physical challenges were significant, with riders enduring long distances, desert winds and temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius, often finishing late in the day.
Yet perspective remained central throughout. “We knew our struggles were minimal,” Dr Sari said.
“We took inspiration from our brothers and sisters in Gaza, who often travel many kilometres on foot carrying everything they own….that kept us resilient.”
Imraan Ebrahim said the journey had a profound impact on him, both spiritually and emotionally.
“It was a powerful spiritual journey that stirred the heart and echoed the struggles of the ummah,” he said.
“Entering Madinah on a bike, surrounded by brothers from across the world, was overwhelming – and the tears flowed.”
Firaz Osman reflected on the unique convergence of worship and service.
“The Hijrah Ride gave me the opportunity to perform Umrah, raise funds for our sisters and their children in Gaza, and cycle from Makkah to Madinah following in the footsteps of our beloved Prophet (s),” he said.
Members of the multinational Hijrah Ride team cycled through the Saudi desert between Makkah and Madinah, united by faith and purpose.
For Yusuf Islam Schellen, the journey felt almost unreal.
“The Hijrah Ride was something you’d only dream about,” he said.
“From early starts before Subuh to sunrises over the mountains, riding hand in hand with brothers while keeping our vulnerable sisters and babies in Gaza in mind – it was never about us, but about seeking Allah’s approval.”
Dr Sari believes the ride captured the essence of faith in action.
“We retraced the footsteps of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (s) under the burning desert sun – and we did it to support pregnant mothers in Gaza, so they can have safe and healthy beginnings for their children.”
“Our original target was $50,000 but alhamdulillah, the figure has now topped $68,000 and if any of your readers wish to make a donation, it would be very much appreciated”:
https://www.launchgood.com/v4/campaign/cycle_for_gaza_maternal_health_with_sydney_muslim_cyclists
During every kilometre ridden, the Makkah-Madinah journey stood as a living reminder that worship, sacrifice and compassion are most powerful when carried forward together.
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