Safa Marwa Dua is an essential part of the spiritual journey during Sa’i between Safa and Marwa, one of the key rituals of Umrah and Hajj. This sacred act commemorates the remarkable trust of Hajar (AS), who ran between the two hills in search of water for her son, Prophet Ismail (AS). As pilgrims walk these blessed paths, they are encouraged to remember Allah through dua, dhikr, and Quranic recitation. While there is no single obligatory Safa Marwa dua for every round, the Quran and authentic Sunnah provide guidance on the supplications and remembrance that can be recited throughout this act of worship.
For Muslims travelling from the UK, preparing spiritually is just as important as planning the journey itself. Many pilgrims begin searching for Umrah deals 2027 months in advance so they have enough time to learn the rituals, memorise authentic duas, and understand the Sunnah before arriving in Makkah.
What Is the Significance of Safa and Marwa?
Allah Almighty says in the Quran:
“Indeed, Safa and Marwa are among the symbols of Allah…”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:158)
This verse confirms the importance of Sa’i as an act of worship. Every believer walks between these hills following the example of Hajar (AS), placing complete trust in Allah’s mercy and provision.
Before Starting Sa’i
Before beginning Sa’i, pilgrims proceed to Mount Safa after completing Tawaf.
When reaching Safa, it is Sunnah to recite:
إِنَّ الصَّفَا وَالْمَرْوَةَ مِن شَعَائِرِ اللَّهِ
“Indeed, Safa and Marwa are among the symbols of Allah.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:158)
The Prophet ﷺ recited this verse before beginning Sa’i.
Step 1: Face the Ka’bah at Safa
After climbing Safa as much as possible, face the Ka’bah, raise your hands, and glorify Allah.
The Prophet ﷺ would say:
اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ
Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest.
Then recite:
لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ، لَهُ الْمُلْكُ، وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ، وَهُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ
Translation:
“There is no god but Allah alone, without a partner. To Him belongs all sovereignty and all praise, and He has power over everything.”
Repeat this remembrance three times, making personal duas between each recitation.
Step 2: Walk Towards Marwa
As you begin walking toward Marwa:
- Remember Allah frequently.
- Recite the Quran if you know it.
- Make sincere duas for yourself, your family, and the Ummah.
- Send blessings upon the Prophet ﷺ.
There is no authentic fixed dua that must be recited during every round. This gives every pilgrim the opportunity to speak to Allah in their own words.
Step 3: Between the Green Markers
Male pilgrims should jog lightly between the two green markers, following the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ.
Women continue walking normally.
Continue making dhikr such as:
- SubhanAllah
- Alhamdulillah
- Allahu Akbar
- La ilaha illallah
Step 4: Upon Reaching Marwa
When you arrive at Marwa, repeat the same remembrance and duas that you made on Safa.
Face the Ka’bah if possible.
Praise Allah.
Recite:
لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ…
Then make heartfelt personal duas.
Step 5: Complete Seven Rounds
One journey from Safa to Marwa counts as one round.
Returning from Marwa to Safa counts as the second.
Complete seven rounds, finishing at Marwa.
Throughout the Sa’i:
- Stay focused.
- Avoid unnecessary conversation.
- Reflect upon Allah’s blessings.
- Continue making sincere supplications.
Recommended Duas During Sa’i
Although there is no fixed supplication for every round, many pilgrims recite authentic duas from the Quran.
1. Dua for Forgiveness
رَبَّنَا ظَلَمْنَا أَنْفُسَنَا…
“Our Lord, we have wronged ourselves…”
(Surah Al-A’raf 7:23)
2. Dua for Good in This World and the Hereafter
رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً…
“Our Lord, grant us good in this world and good in the Hereafter and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:201)
3. Dua for Guidance
رَبِّ زِدْنِي عِلْمًا
“My Lord, increase my knowledge.”
(Surah Ta-Ha 20:114)
Sunnah Etiquettes During Sa’i
- Begin at Safa and finish at Marwa.
- Stay in a state of remembrance.
- Make sincere personal duas.
- Avoid rushing unless jogging between the green markers (men only).
- Help elderly pilgrims if possible.
- Remain patient and humble.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Believing every round has a compulsory dua.
- Reading unauthentic supplications.
- Forgetting to begin at Safa.
- Speaking loudly and disturbing others.
- Rushing without reflection.
- Neglecting personal dua.
Spiritual Lessons from Safa and Marwa
Sa’i reminds every Muslim that relief comes after patience.
Hajar (AS) continued searching while trusting Allah completely. Her perseverance teaches believers to combine sincere effort with unwavering faith.
Every step between Safa and Marwa is an opportunity to strengthen one’s relationship with Allah through remembrance, gratitude, and heartfelt supplication.
If you’re preparing for your pilgrimage from the UK, choosing a trusted agency like Makkah Travel can help make your journey smoother, allowing you to focus on learning the rituals and reciting authentic dua for hajj and umrah throughout your blessed trip.
Final Thoughts
Sa’i is far more than walking between two hills. It is a powerful reminder of trust in Allah, perseverance during hardship, and gratitude for His countless blessings.
Rather than memorising lengthy, unauthentic supplications, focus on the Quranic duas and authentic Sunnah taught by the Prophet ﷺ. Speak to Allah sincerely, ask for forgiveness, guidance, and acceptance, and make every step between Safa and Marwa meaningful.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is there a specific dua for every round of Sa’i?
No. There is no authentic evidence requiring a separate dua for each round. Pilgrims may recite Quran, authentic duas, dhikr, and personal supplications.
2. What Quran verse is recited before starting Sa’i?
Pilgrims recite:
“Indeed, Safa and Marwa are among the symbols of Allah.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:158)
before beginning Sa’i.
3. Can I make dua in English during Sa’i?
Yes. Personal supplications may be made in your own language while remembering Allah sincerely.
4. Do women jog between the green lights?
No. The Sunnah of jogging between the green markers applies only to men. Women should continue walking at a normal pace.
5. Can I read from a dua book or mobile phone during Sa’i?
Yes. If it helps you remember authentic duas and remain focused, you may read from a small dua book or your phone, provided it does not distract you from the worship.
