Sa'i (Safa and Marwa): Steps, Rules and Practical Advice
In brief
This detailed guide covers Sa'i, the ritual running between the mountains of Safa and Marwa, an essential rite of Hajj and Umrah. You will discover the spiritual significance of this rite linked to the history of Hajar (Hagar) and the Prophet Isma'il, the conditions for the validity of Sa'i, the complete procedure of the seven passages between Safa and Marwa, and the authentic supplications recommended at each passage.
We clarify the specific rules: direction of the passage, the area of brisk walking for men, Sa'i in a wheelchair, and rest between passages. Practical advice for managing physical effort and crowds completes this guide.
The sa'i, the act of walking briskly (or running in certain sections) between the two hills of Safa and Marwa, is one of the key rites of Hajj and Umra.
This physical act, though simple in appearance, carries great spiritual and historical significance. It commemorates the urgent and distressed journey of Hagar, the mother of Prophet Ismail, who desperately sought water for her son in the arid desert.
Today, when thousands of pilgrims traverse this path in succession, they reconnect with this historical quest of faith and trust in Allah.
Definition and Spiritual Significance of Sa'i
The sa'i consists of making seven round trips between the hills of Safa and Marwa. Although the word "sa'i" means "to traverse" or "to walk", this act carries a much deeper dimension.
Historically and spiritually, it commemorates the unwavering devotion of Hagar, who entrusted her newborn to the care of Allah and ran from hill to hill seeking help.
Umrah and Hajj are not complete without the sa'i. It is therefore a mandatory act that immediately follows the tawaf (the circumambulation around the Kaaba). Some scholars consider it an integral part of the tawaf itself, while others view it as a distinct and mandatory rite.
The Hills of Safa and Marwa: Landmarks and Geographic Layout
Safa and Marwa are two hills located in Mecca, connected by a valley that extends approximately 395 meters. Previously, these hills were indeed separated by an open and significant space.
Today, a modern structure called Mas'a covers and urbanizes this valley, facilitating the movement of pilgrims.
Safa, whose name means "pure" or "clean," is the first hill from which one begins the sa'i. Marwa, whose name means "white hill," is the second hill. Between these two points, there are modern visual landmarks - green markers and numerical signs - to help pilgrims count their laps and maintain the correct order.
Stages of Sa'i: How to Practice It
The sa'i begins by climbing the hill of Safa. Once at the summit or near the summit, the pilgrim turns toward the Kaaba and recites invocations. The Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said: "There is no god but Allah, the One, without partner.
To Him belongs sovereignty and praise. He gives life and He causes death, and He is ever-living and does not die. All good is in His hands, and He is capable of doing all things.
There is no god but Allah alone, without partner. He fulfilled His promise and aided His servant and defeated the coalitions alone."
After this invocation, the pilgrim descends from Safa and walks (or runs vigorously) toward Marwa. When he approaches Marwa, he slows the pace and climbs the hill. Once at the summit, he recites the same invocations again and turns toward the Kaaba.
This completes one "journey". The pilgrim then returns to Safa and repeats the process.
In total, the pilgrim makes seven journeys. Between Safa and Marwa counts as one journey, and the return from Marwa to Safa also counts as one journey. After completing the seven journeys, the sa'i is completed.
Essential Rules and Obligations of Sa'i
Several rules must be observed to ensure the validity of sa'i. First, the sa'i must be performed after the tawaf. Performing the sa'i before the tawaf renders it invalid.
Second, the pilgrim must cover the entire distance between the two hills. Shortcuts or detours invalidate the sa'i. In the modern layout, this means walking entirely within the designated area of the Mas'a.
Third, the seven circuits must be completed in the correct order. Starting at Safa and ending at Marwa means that the seventh circuit is a return to Marwa. Some pilgrims become confused about this and end at Safa, which requires an additional circuit to correct the order.
Fourth, although the sa'i does not require complete ritual purity (unlike the tawaf), some scholars recommend ablution. However, if purity is broken during the sa'i, it is not necessary to repeat it.
Vigilance Points and Common Mistakes
A common error is losing count of the seven circuits. Many tired or distracted pilgrims forget which circuit they are on. Using a counter, beads, or relying on a companion to count can help considerably.
Another frequent error is beginning the sa'i before the tawaf is completely finished. The sa'i must absolutely follow the entire tawaf. If someone begins the sa'i too early, they must correct this by first completing the remaining tawaf.
Some pilgrims rush or run vigorously the entire distance, unaware that the pace is not obligatory. Although the Prophet Muhammad walked quickly (and some reports mention that he ran between the designated markers), normal walking is perfectly acceptable, especially for elderly or infirm people.
Du'a and Dhikr During Sa'i
While covering the distance between Safa and Marwa, the pilgrim can invoke Allah in a personal and sincere manner. There is no obligatory invocation prescribed for the sa'i itself, which allows great spiritual flexibility.
However, traditional invocations recited at the summit of Safa and Marwa are recommended. Reciting dhikr, the Quran, or simply invoking Allah silently for forgiveness and blessings are all valid approaches.
The essence is that the heart must remain focused on worship and connection with Allah.
Practical Tips for Sa'i
On a practical level, wear comfortable shoes for the sa'i. The distance is considerable, and tired feet can compromise the experience and spiritual concentration. Worn shoes or well-fitted sandals are ideal.
Stay hydrated. The climate in Mecca is extremely hot, and walking seven times between two hills can exhaust the body quickly. Bring a water bottle and drink regularly.
Consider doing the sa'i during less crowded hours if possible. During peak hours, crowds are dense and difficult to navigate. Some pilgrims choose to perform the sa'i late in the evening or very early in the morning to avoid congestion.
FAQ - Questions about Sa'i
Must I absolutely run between Safa and Marwa?
No, running is not obligatory. Walking is equally valid. Prophet Muhammad walked and some reports mention that he walked vigorously or ran between the designated markers, but this is a sunnah (recommended practice) rather than an obligation.
Elderly, sick, or tired people can walk at a normal pace.
How long does it take to complete the sa'i?
This varies greatly depending on pace and crowds. A pilgrim walking at a normal pace can take 45 minutes to one hour. Those who run or walk vigorously can finish in 30 to 40 minutes.
During peak hours, with dense crowds, it can take up to two hours.
Can I perform the sa'i if I am pregnant or in poor health?
Pregnant women or people with major physical difficulties can perform the sa'i at their own pace, slowly and with rest if necessary. Some scholars even permit a physically incapable person to delegate the sa'i to another person, although this involves legal differences of opinion.
What happens if I start the sa'i and have to stop because of fatigue?
If you must stop because of fatigue and resume later, this is generally acceptable. You can resume from where you left off. However, it is preferable to complete the sa'i within the same period if possible to avoid complications or forgetting your progress.
After the Sa'i - Hair Shortening
Once the sa'i is completed, the pilgrim exits the state of ihram by shortening or shaving the hair. This marks the end of Umrah or the transition between Umrah and Hajj for those performing tamattu.
Read about complete stepsPractical Books on Sa'i
Hajj and 'Umra Guide - Yacoub Roty
Complete guide for Hajj and Umra with invocations and detailed rituals
From 15.00 € incl. tax
What are the delivery times for my books?
Al-Imen delivers in mainland France within 2 to 5 business days. For Belgium and Europe, allow 5 to 10 days. Consult our shipping and delivery page for detailed rates and order tracking options.
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