Although less famous, Ibn Battuta is the world’s greatest traveller and is known to have been to more countries than the famous Marco Polo himself. Here are a few interesting facts you might like to know about this man as a fellow traveller.
Where the journey began
His story dates back to the 14th century when the age of exploration was just beginning. At the time, it was compulsory that Muslims visit Hajj and therefore, many started off on their journeys including Ibn Battuta. He left home at the age of 21 in the year 1325 and that’s the opening of the tale of his adventures.
Passage through Arabia
While on his journey to Makkah from Tangier, Morocco, Ibn Battuta passed several Arabian countries, Egypt, Cairo, Palestine, Nile Valley, Jerusalem, Hebron and Haram al Sheriff, Damascus, Arabian Deserts, and Medina. After all, exploring it all, he finally arrived in Makkah where he performed his Hajj gaining the esteemed title of Hajji.
The west and then the east
Once he was done with Hajj, Ibn Battuta did not return home, he was free spirited and therefore chose to travel the world instead. So he set off this time and made it to the western world through Anatolia (Turkey) where the ruler offered him the opportunity to become a legal and religious scholar. After exploring the west, he set out to the east where he served as a judge for some time in India upon request of the king.
Ibn Battuta Mall
Today, in Dubai, known as the longest mall, is Ibn Battuta Mall, a place dedicated to the adventurer. Located in close proximity to 4-star hotels in Dubai the likes of Avani Ibn Battuta Hotel Dubai, this mall is much loved by locals and visitors. Inside is a beautiful interior with different sections themed according to the unique adventure of this amazing traveller.
