Safa and Marwah
Two sacred hills within Masjid al-Haram, central to Hajj & Umrah, where pilgrims perform the Sa'ee ritual commemorating Hajar's faith.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Safa and Marwah
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Two sacred hills within Masjid al-Haram, central to Hajj & Umrah, where pilgrims perform the Sa'ee ritual commemorating Hajar's faith.
"The walk between Safa and Marwa is an overwhelming spiritual experience, connecting you to ancient faith."
🎯 Count Your Laps Carefully
Don't count a lap by starting and ending at the same hill. Ensure you complete 7 full circuits. :warning:
⬆️ Use Upper Floors
Opt for the upper levels for a less crowded and more comfortable Sa'ee experience. :arrow_up:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Seven Laps of Sa'ee
Between Safa and Marwah hills
Walk or run seven times between the hills, a deeply spiritual act commemorating Hajar's faith and perseverance.

The ZamZam Spring
Near Safa hill
Witness the miraculous ZamZam well, which sprang forth to quench Hajar and Isma'il's thirst.
The Story of Hajar
Safa and Marwah hills
Reflect on the profound story of Hajar's unwavering faith and trust in Allah during hardship.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Sa'ee Ritual
Navigating the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Count Your Laps Carefully
Don't count a lap by starting and ending at the same hill. Ensure you complete 7 full circuits.
:warning:⬆️ Use Upper Floors
Opt for the upper levels for a less crowded and more comfortable Sa'ee experience.
:arrow_up:💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months, as the walk can be strenuous.
:droplet:👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking or running for a significant distance.
:athletic_shoe:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Count Your Laps Carefully
Don't count a lap by starting and ending at the same hill. Ensure you complete 7 full circuits.
:warning:⬆️ Use Upper Floors
Opt for the upper levels for a less crowded and more comfortable Sa'ee experience.
:arrow_up:💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months, as the walk can be strenuous.
:droplet:👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking or running for a significant distance.
:athletic_shoe:🙏 Focus on Spirituality
Embrace the spiritual significance of the ritual and connect with the story of Hajar.
:pray:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Safa and Marwah are revered as sacred sites, central to the spiritual journey of Hajj and Umrah. Pilgrims find immense fulfillment in performing the Sa'ee ritual, connecting with the historical and religious narrative. While the experience is deeply moving, the significant crowds can sometimes be challenging.
"Safa Marwa and Sa'i | Dua, Distance, History & How to Perform
Safa and Marwa are two small hills within the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, central to Islamic pilgrimages of Hajj and Umrah, where pilgrims walk or run seven times between them in a ritual called Sa'i. The ritual commemorates Hajar's desperate search for water to save her infant son, Isma'il. The act symbolizes faith, perseverance, and trust in Allah, and is a required part of these significant religious journeys.
Significance and Story
Hajar's Search:
The story of Hajar, the wife of Prophet Ibrahim, is central to the ritual. While in the barren desert of Mecca, she ran back and forth between Safa and Marwa searching for water for her infant son, Isma'il.
Divine Mercy:
Allah answered Hajar's prayers, sending Angel Jibril (Gabriel), who struck the ground, causing the miraculous ZamZam well to spring forth.
Symbol of Faith:
The ritual of Sa'i represents Hajar's unwavering faith and her trust in Allah's promise during a time of immense hardship."
Ghani
"Safa and Marwa are two small hills located within the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. They hold great religious significance for Muslims as part of the ritual of Sa’i, performed during Hajj and Umrah. Pilgrims walk or run seven times back and forth between these hills, commemorating Hagar’s desperate search for water for her son, Prophet Ismail (AS). This act symbolizes patience, faith, and trust in Allah’s mercy.
The area between Safa and Marwa is now enclosed within the mosque, providing a spacious and comfortable place for pilgrims to perform Sa’i. It remains a deeply spiritual part of the pilgrimage journey, reminding Muslims of resilience and divine providence."
A. Sufian
"In Islamic tradition, the civilization of Mecca started after Ibrāhīm (Abraham) left his son Ismāʿīl (Ishmael) and wife Hājar (Hajira) in the valley,[5][6] which Muslims believe was a command by God. When their provisions were exhausted, Hajar eventually ran out of food and water and could no longer breastfeed Ismail.[3] She thus ran back and forth seven times between Safa and Marwa hoping to find water.[3] To make her search easier and faster, she went alone, leaving the infant on the ground. She first climbed the nearest hill, Safa, to look over the surrounding area. When she saw nothing, she then went to the other hill, Marwah, to look around. While Hagar was on either hillside, she was able to see Ishmael and know he was safe. However, when she was in the valley between the hills she was unable to see her son, and would thus run whilst in the valley and walk at a normal pace when on the hillsides. Hagar traveled back and forth between the hills seven times in the scorching heat before returning to her son. Allah then sent Angel Jibril (Gabriel) to their aid and a spring of water appeared from the ground. The well was named Zamzam and the journey back and forth Safa and Marwa was made a ritual during Hajj and Umrah.[3] The two mountains are mentioned by name in the Quran 2:158."
Khawja Mateen
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Safa and Marwah are located within the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca. Access is directly from the mosque itself. Pilgrims performing Hajj or Umrah will naturally pass through this area as it's an integral part of the rituals.
There isn't a separate entrance for Safa and Marwah as they are enclosed within the Masjid al-Haram. You will access them as part of your pilgrimage journey.
The distance between the base of Safa and the base of Marwah is approximately 375 meters (410 yards). Each circuit is about 375 meters, making the total distance for seven circuits around 2.6 kilometers (1.6 miles).
Yes, there are facilities for wheelchairs, and the upper levels are generally more accessible. It's advisable to inquire about specific services upon arrival.
The time taken can vary greatly depending on crowd levels and your pace. It can range from 30 minutes to over an hour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, a separate ticket is not required for Safa and Marwah. They are part of the Masjid al-Haram and are accessible to anyone performing Hajj or Umrah.
Safa and Marwah are accessible 24 hours a day as they are within the Masjid al-Haram, which is always open for pilgrims.
There is no entry fee for Safa and Marwah. Access is included with your Hajj or Umrah pilgrimage.
To avoid the largest crowds, try to perform Sa'ee during the early morning hours or late at night, outside of prayer times.
The primary restriction is that the Sa'ee ritual is performed as part of Hajj and Umrah. During these times, it's a sacred ritual, and respectful conduct is expected.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The ritual is called Sa'ee, which involves walking or running seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's wife Hajar's search for water.
Start at Safa, walk to Marwah, then return to Safa. Each journey between the hills counts as one circuit. You need to complete seven circuits in total.
They symbolize Hajar's faith, perseverance, and trust in Allah's mercy. The ZamZam well's appearance nearby is also a key part of the story.
While the primary ritual is Sa'ee, you can offer personal prayers and supplications during your walk between the hills.
Wear modest, comfortable clothing suitable for walking or light jogging. Many pilgrims wear Ihram attire.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Masjid al-Haram complex has numerous food courts, restaurants, and cafes offering a wide variety of cuisines.
Yes, there are vendors selling water and light snacks along the route and within the mosque complex.
You can find traditional Saudi dishes, Middle Eastern cuisine, and international fast-food options within the Masjid al-Haram.
While the focus is on the ritual, you can pause to drink water or have a light snack if needed, especially during longer walks.
Many pilgrims opt for simple, energizing meals. Dates and water are often consumed for quick energy.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be respectful of other pilgrims and avoid obstructing their rituals.
The views from the upper levels offer a great perspective of the entire area. Capturing the movement of pilgrims can be very evocative.
Drone photography is strictly prohibited within the Masjid al-Haram and surrounding areas for security and respect reasons.
You can capture the architecture, the vast numbers of pilgrims, and the spiritual atmosphere of the Sa'ee ritual.
Use your phone or camera discreetly, avoid using flash excessively, and be mindful of people performing their prayers or rituals.
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Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Significance of Sa'ee
This act of faith is re-enacted by millions of pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah. Each step taken between Safa and Marwah serves as a reminder of Hajar's resilience and the belief that Allah will provide. The appearance of the miraculous ZamZam well, which sprang forth from the ground to quench their thirst, further amplifies the spiritual significance of this location. The Quran itself mentions Safa and Marwah as symbols of Allah, highlighting their importance in the pilgrimage.
Navigating Safa and Marwah: Practical Tips
Comfort is key during this ritual. Wearing comfortable shoes is essential as you'll be walking or lightly jogging for a considerable distance. Staying hydrated is also crucial, so carrying water is highly recommended, especially during warmer months. While the focus is on the spiritual journey, remember that vendors are available for water and light snacks. Embrace the experience with a sense of devotion and mindfulness, allowing the spiritual atmosphere to guide you.
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