A journey undertaken for Hajj in 1932 turned into a lifelong settlement for a young Saudi man, who later became known in Chitral as “Arab Baba” and left a lasting mark on his social and cultural life.
According to local accounts, the then Mehtar of Chitral, Shuja ul-Mulk, travelled by sea from British India to perform Hajj. During the voyage, a Saudi Arabia, Muhammad Ali bin Saleh, served as a Khadim-ul-Hujjaj (caretaker of pilgrims) and remained in close service to the Mehtar and other royal passengers.
Impressed by his dedication and abilities, the Mehtar invited him to return with him after the pilgrimage. Upon reaching Chitral, arrangements were made for his marriage, after which he chose to settle there permanently.
Over time, Muhammad Ali bin Saleh became a well-known figure in the area. He was popularly called “Arab Baba” and is remembered for opening what is believed to be the first sweets shop in Chitral.
His son, Sabahuddin Qasim, recalled that his father was around 20 to 22 years old when he first arrived in the region.
The story reflects a unique blend of migration, cultural integration and personal legacy, rooted in a journey that began with faith and ended with a new home.