Safa and Marwah - Two women standing next to each other near a tree
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Safa and Marwah

4.9
·32k reviews·Makkah, Saudi Arabia

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings or late evenings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
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Safa and Marwah - Two women standing next to each other near a tree

Safa and Marwah

Best Time

Early mornings or late evenings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.9
(32k reviews)

"The walk between Safa and Marwa is an overwhelming spiritual experience, connecting you to ancient faith."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Seven Laps of Sa'ee

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.

TikTok
The ZamZam Spring

The ZamZam Spring

Near Safa hill

Witness the miraculous ZamZam well, which sprang forth to quench Hajar and Isma'il's thirst.

TikTok
The Story of Hajar

The Story of Hajar

Safa and Marwah hills

Reflect on the profound story of Hajar's unwavering faith and trust in Allah during hardship.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Understand the Sa'ee Ritual

Safa and Marwah are central to the Sa'ee ritual during Hajj and Umrah. Pilgrims walk or run seven times between the hills, commemorating Hajar's search for water. Understanding this story enhances the spiritual experience. TikTokInstagram

Navigating the Crowds

As a required part of Hajj and Umrah, Safa and Marwah can get very crowded, especially during peak seasons. Consider using the upper floors for a less congested experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings or late evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Crowd
Low
When
Outside of peak Hajj/Umrah seasons
Why
More peaceful spiritual experience
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@iqra_adil786
51K likes • 1.2M views

🎯 Count Your Laps Carefully

Don't count a lap by starting and ending at the same hill. Ensure you complete 7 full circuits. Reddit :warning:

⬆️ Use Upper Floors

Opt for the upper levels for a less crowded and more comfortable Sa'ee experience. Reddit :arrow_up:

Story of Safa & Marwah yang di dijalani oleh Ibu Hajar memang tidak mudah, namun dampaknya dirasakan hingga umat Nabi Muhammad #dewisandra #haji #umroh #Baitullah #ceritabaitullah
@menujuraudhah
12.8K likes • 209.7K views
Unforgettable… Sampai aroma wangi nya pun msh kuat di ingatan 💕 #gunturnarenumroh2024 #sai #shafamarwah
pradnyautomo
49 likes • 763 views

💧 Stay Hydrated

Carry water, especially during warmer months, as the walk can be strenuous. TikTok :droplet:

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking or running for a significant distance. Instagram :athletic_shoe:

Shafa dan marwah mengajarkan bagaimana seseorang ibu bersusah payah untuk anaknya. Tugas kita ikhtiar, hasil itu urusan Alloh #fyp #fypreels #ibuhebat #ibudananak #shafamarwa #safamarwah #sai #masjidilharam #makkah #umroh2025
fandiegotraveljakartaselatan
17 likes • 563 views

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. Reddit :warning:

⬆️ Use Upper Floors

Opt for the upper levels for a less crowded and more comfortable Sa'ee experience. Reddit :arrow_up:

💧 Stay Hydrated

Carry water, especially during warmer months, as the walk can be strenuous. TikTok :droplet:

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking or running for a significant distance. Instagram :athletic_shoe:

🙏 Focus on Spirituality

Embrace the spiritual significance of the ritual and connect with the story of Hajar. Instagram :pray:

What Travellers Say

4.9
(32k reviews)

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

Profound spiritual connection
Historical significance
Sense of accomplishment

What People Dislike

Overcrowding
Navigating crowds

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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). Reddit

Yes, there are facilities for wheelchairs, and the upper levels are generally more accessible. It's advisable to inquire about specific services upon arrival. Reddit

The time taken can vary greatly depending on crowd levels and your pace. It can range from 30 minutes to over an hour. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

Safa and Marwah are accessible 24 hours a day as they are within the Masjid al-Haram, which is always open for pilgrims. TikTok

There is no entry fee for Safa and Marwah. Access is included with your Hajj or Umrah pilgrimage. TikTok

To avoid the largest crowds, try to perform Sa'ee during the early morning hours or late at night, outside of prayer times. Reddit

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. TikTok

🎫 🧭 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. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

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. TikTokInstagram

While the primary ritual is Sa'ee, you can offer personal prayers and supplications during your walk between the hills. TikTok

Wear modest, comfortable clothing suitable for walking or light jogging. Many pilgrims wear Ihram attire. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Masjid al-Haram complex has numerous food courts, restaurants, and cafes offering a wide variety of cuisines. TikTok

Yes, there are vendors selling water and light snacks along the route and within the mosque complex. TikTok

You can find traditional Saudi dishes, Middle Eastern cuisine, and international fast-food options within the Masjid al-Haram. TikTok

While the focus is on the ritual, you can pause to drink water or have a light snack if needed, especially during longer walks. TikTok

Many pilgrims opt for simple, energizing meals. Dates and water are often consumed for quick energy. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be respectful of other pilgrims and avoid obstructing their rituals. Instagram

The views from the upper levels offer a great perspective of the entire area. Capturing the movement of pilgrims can be very evocative. Instagram

Drone photography is strictly prohibited within the Masjid al-Haram and surrounding areas for security and respect reasons. Instagram

You can capture the architecture, the vast numbers of pilgrims, and the spiritual atmosphere of the Sa'ee ritual. Instagram

Use your phone or camera discreetly, avoid using flash excessively, and be mindful of people performing their prayers or rituals. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Safa and Marwah with children can be a profound experience. The story of Hajar and Isma'il is a powerful lesson in faith and perseverance that can resonate with young minds. Instagram To make the journey more manageable, consider using the upper floors, which are often less crowded and can be more accessible with strollers. Reddit Ensure children are well-hydrated and wear comfortable shoes. Taking breaks when needed is important, and you can explain the significance of the ritual in simple terms to help them engage with the experience. TikTok

🚶 Budget Travelers

Safa and Marwah are integral parts of the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, which are religious journeys. There are no direct costs associated with visiting Safa and Marwah themselves, as they are within the Masjid al-Haram. TikTok The main expenses for pilgrims are typically related to travel, accommodation, and visa fees. During your Sa'ee, you can find affordable water and snacks from vendors, but it's always a good idea to carry your own water bottle to save money and stay hydrated. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Spiritual Significance of Sa'ee

The ritual of Sa'ee at Safa and Marwah is deeply rooted in Islamic history and faith. It commemorates the unwavering faith and perseverance of Hajar, the wife of Prophet Ibrahim. Left in the barren valley of Mecca with her infant son, Isma'il, Hajar faced extreme hardship. Her desperate search for water for her son, running back and forth seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, is a powerful testament to her trust in Allah's divine plan. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok The Quran itself mentions Safa and Marwah as symbols of Allah, highlighting their importance in the pilgrimage. Reddit

Navigating Safa and Marwah: Practical Tips

Performing Sa'ee at Safa and Marwah requires some practical considerations, especially given the large number of pilgrims. A common mistake, as highlighted by travelers, is miscounting the laps. Remember that a full circuit is from Safa to Marwah and back to Safa. Ensure you complete seven such circuits. Reddit To avoid the densest crowds, especially on the ground floor, consider utilizing the upper levels. These areas often offer a more serene experience and better accessibility, particularly for the elderly or those with children. Reddit

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. TikTokInstagram 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. TikTok

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