ECHOES OF THE RIHLA
Reading Morocco Through Ibn Khaldun’s Lens

Ibn Khaldun’s theory of the rise and fall of civilizations, articulated most powerfully in works such as the Muqaddima, continues to exert a profound influence on political and social thought today. This summer, Road to Roots’ study trip will trace his footsteps, exploring the historical, intellectual, and social contexts that shaped his ideas and seeking to understand how and why he developed his groundbreaking theories.

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Morocco July 31- August 8, 2026

Our journey into Morocco’s intellectual past will begin in Fez, as we explore the history through structured academic study guided by our instructor, Dr. Firas Alkhateeb. Together, we will begin tracing the history of Muslims in the region, immersing ourselves in the intellectual legacy that shaped the region.

This immersive study abroad journey begins with arrival in Morocco and a warm welcome to the historic city of Fez, where participants are grounded in orientation, guided exploration of the ancient medina, and daily study sessions. Time in Fez includes visits with local artisans and engagement with the city’s deep intellectual heritage.

Midway through the program, the group travels through Moulay Idriss Zerhoun and Moulay Mashish for guided historical visits, before transitioning into a retreat in Chefchaouen, focusing on study, reflection, rest, and connection with nature.

The journey ends in Marrakech for ziyarah of renowned scholars and saints, including Imam al-Jazuli and Qadi Ayyad, offering participants a deeper encounter with Morocco’s intellectual landscape.

This study trip is curated for 4th-year high school
students and Undergraduate Students.

Travel Logistics

All attendees must arrive in Casablanca by July 30. Our program will officially commence on July 31 and end August 8. All attendees will depart on August 9.

We request that attendees fly into Casablanca.

Upon arrival, you will be transported by bus to your accommodations in Fez, insha’Allah.

Tuition

The cost of this program is $3,200 (before April 15) $3500
after April 15. Tuition includes the following:

  • Meals: Breakfast and dinner

  • 3- to 4-star accommodations in neighborhoods screened for safety

  • Tickets to monuments, museums, and historic sites

  • Guided Tours by certified professionals at major sites

  • Transportation: Airport transfers and intercity transportation
    on a comfortable air-conditioned bus

    COURSES:

  • On-site courses taught by a doctoral-level educator

  • Preparatory classes, aimed at building a foundational understanding
    of the history, will be held before departure.

  • Activities: Hands-on artisan workshop

  • Materials: Course books and journals

  • Post-trip class: an online session dedicated to reviewing and reflecting on the study trip experience, drawing conclusions and insights

This fee does not include:
Airfare ✈️ and personal expenses such as snacks, souvenirs, lunch or additions to any of the meals such as drinks, sides, etc.

Applications

The Application Process

The Road to Roots application process is structured in two phases, designed to give early applicants priority access and a significant tuition discount.

Applications Open February 5 ⭐️

  • Apply between Feb 5, 2025 and April 15, 2026 along with your (refundable) $200 deposit in order to be considered.

  • Tuition: Applicants who submit by this deadline secure a rate of $3200.

  • Process:

    1. Submit your complete application, including the initial $200 deposit, by April 15th.

    2. Interviews will be scheduled and conducted.

    3. If accepted, you will receive your offer of acceptance.

Late Applications: Ends May 15, 2026

  • Applications submitted between April 15 and May 15, 2026 cannot
    secure the discounted rate.

  • Note: Applications in this phase are subject to the
    Full Tuition Rate of $3500.

  • Interviews will be scheduled and conducted.

‼️ Important Notes

  • Deposit Requirement: All applications must include the initial deposit to be considered.

  • Capacity: Spaces are limited to ensure a high-quality experience. Applying during the first deadline window is the best way to secure your seat. Applying after, could potentially place you in a waiting list.
    June 1, 2026 — Final Program Payment Due: All remaining balances must be paid in full

  • Refunds: All payments are non-refundable and non-cancellable
    after June 15, 2026

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FAQ

  • Do we have an emergency protocol in place?
    We will detail safety, health, and emergency protocols during our Orientation. A hard copy will be made available to you.

  • We expect students to practice mindfulness throughout this experience. Because mobile phones can disrupt the suhba and the group’s overall focus, their use will be strictly limited.

    These guidelines will be reviewed in detail during the Orientation session.

  • Peer and Gender Interactions

    Housing:
    Students will be housed in accommodations that are strictly gender-segregated. Room assignments will be based on availability, and we will take great care to uphold our values, ensuring both safety and comfort. Detailed housing information will be provided before departure.

    Transportation:
    Most group travel will be via bus. We request that gender segregation is maintained during transit.

    Interactions and Conduct:
    Our goal is to instill the principles of adab in all interactions, encouraging respectful communication while upholding appropriate boundaries and maintaining ḥayā’ (modesty) for both young men and women.

    • Interaction between males and females in confinement is not permitted.

    • Lectures will be held in shared spaces, but seating will be divided by gender.

    These guidelines are designed to ensure a safe, respectful, and mindful environment for every participant.

  • Regarding our young women traveling without a mahram. Although there are varied fatawa regarding this issue, we lean towards this fatwa which helps clarify the matter: 

    Can a Woman Travel Alone?