Safa Marwa Distance Explained for First-Time Umrah Pilgrims
Walking between Safa and Marwa is a prominent ritual of Umrah. It has great historical, spiritual, and emotional significance for the Muslims. We cannot deny that it is a powerful part of both pilgrimages. All the pilgrims are required to head over to the sacred hills of Safa and Marwa for Sa’i after performing Tawaf around the Holy Kaaba. This also piques the curiosity of all the pilgrims about the Safa Marwa distance, how to perform the ritual, and its significance.
Like you, thousands of British Muslims go on pilgrimage every year. And before they embark on this spiritual retreat, they make sure to learn about all the pilgrimage rituals, including Sa’i. So, if you are planning to undertake the pilgrimage soon, learning about Sa’i is crucial for you. Therefore, as you search for the best Umrah packages 2026, take this pre-pilgrimage time to learn about Umrah rituals. We are here to tell you everything about Sa’i to make your journey a lot easier and to motivate you for your spiritual retreat.
The Spiritual Story Behind Sa’i
You might be here to know about the distance between Safa and Marwah. But before we explain it, it is essential to understand the spiritual story behind Sa’i. You must know why you perform this ritual to make the most of this spiritual experience. It is important to remember why we walk between these two hills as part of our pilgrimage.
This ritual is performed to commemorate the unwavering faith of Hazrat Hajar, the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and mother of Prophet Ismail (AS). She ran between these two hills to find water for her infant in the desert, having faith in the Almighty. As a result, the Almighty miraculously helped her. This is the epitome of unwavering belief in the Creator.
Devotion of Hajar is so dear to the Almighty that He made it compulsory for all the pilgrims to follow her footsteps. It also serves as a reminder that performing Sa’i (Safa Marwa Distance) is not just a physical ritual; it is a reminder and journey of firm faith, trust in the Creator, resilience, and divine help.
Distance Between Safa and Marwa
Sa’i consists of seven rounds between Safa and Marwa. Both hills are around 394 metres apart. And one walk from Safa to Marwa constitutes one round, and then returning from Marwa to Safa constitutes the second round. This way, the total distance that you will have to cover to complete your Umrah ritual will be about 2.76 km – 3.5 km. It varies a little depending on the walking path and your pace.
Although the distance seems quite significant, most pilgrims claim that it is a lot more manageable than walking this distance anywhere else. This is not only because the pilgrims are driven and feel motivated to perform it, but also because of the exceptional facilities. The entire Sa’i area is levelled and air-conditioned. This makes it a lot more convenient for the pilgrims of all ages to cover the distances.
Men also have to jog between a particular area, which is marked with green marker lights. Women must continue walking normally in this area as well. As millions gather here for the pilgrimage, the authorities have ensured that the pathway is wide enough to accommodate the maximum number of pilgrims. It is also exceptionally organised and is designed to accommodate wheelchairs and electric carts as well for Safa Marwa distance.
How Long Does it Take to Complete Sa’i?
You may wonder how long it takes to perform this ritual. Keep in mind that the time to perform this ritual is not concrete. This is because everyone has their own pace. It depends on your speed, energy levels, and the number of breaks you take in between the walk seven times between the two sacred hills. Therefore, the duration can vary from person to person.
A fast pacer might be able to cover the distance in just 35 to 45 minutes, while average pace walkers can complete it in 50 to 70 minutes. It can also take one to one and a half hours to complete this ritual for the elderly or families. Therefore, you don’t have to rush to perform this ritual. You can do it all at your own pace without any rush. Don’t dwell on other pilgrims or try to compete, and focus on the spiritual aspect of the ritual.
What to Expect During Sa’i?
If you don’t know what to expect during Sa’i, don’t worry. We are here to inform you about this spiritual retreat before you embark on it.
Climbing the Hills
Safa and Marwa are hills. But pilgrims don’t have to climb the hills anymore. It is a levelled area. The built-up platform represents each hill. Therefore, you will have to walk gently on an incline as you supplicate and make duas.
Continuous Flow of Pilgrims
There is a continuous flow of pilgrims between Safa and Marwa. The flow is steady and organised. Although it is mostly crowded, the crowd flows smoothly. You can learn more about Umrah pilgrims and how to walk between Safa and Marwa from the best online Quran academy.
A Mix of Emotions
Sa’s is not just a walk between the two hills. It brings endless emotions to the hearts of the pilgrims. From gratitude to tears of reflection, you will feel it all during this ritual. Additionally, the renewed unity and sense of closeness that you experience as you perform this ritual are truly unmatched. It will surely transform your life. This deep spiritual moment brings a lot of clarity to the Muslims and makes them immerse themselves in supplication.
Summing Up
No doubt learning the Safa Marwa distance and how to perform the ritual removes any uncertainty or confusion. It gives you the confidence to perform the ritual perfectly. Also, understanding its spiritual significance helps you learn faith, resilience, and patience. It also reminds the pilgrims that the Almighty is always near and if we trust Him completely, He will help us in every aspect of our lives.
