Table of Contents
Introduction
What to Expect in This Guide
If you're planning your first Umrah pilgrimage and have booked or are considering an Umrah package from London, you're likely encountering many new terms and rituals. One such essential rite is As-Sai—the symbolic walking between the hills of Safa and Marwa. This guide is crafted to give you a complete understanding of As-Sai, its spiritual depth, practical steps, and how to prepare for it both mentally and physically.
Why This Ritual Matters for First-Time Pilgrims
For many UK-based Muslims embarking on Umrah, the experience is both sacred and deeply personal. Understanding each step helps make the journey more spiritually meaningful. As-Sai is not just a ritual—it’s a powerful reminder of faith, patience, and divine providence.
Who This Article Is For
Whether you're just starting to explore Umrah travel tips or have already booked your pilgrimage with Umrah Tours, this guide is designed for first-time pilgrims from the UK looking for clarity, confidence, and connection during their spiritual journey.
What Is As-Sai?
The Meaning and Origin of As-Sai
As-Sai (السعي) refers to the walking (or striving) between the two small hills of Safa and Marwa, located within the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. This act commemorates the struggle of Hajar (peace be upon her), the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who ran between the hills in search of water for her infant son, Isma’il (AS).
Historical and Religious Significance
This ritual is not merely symbolic—it is rooted in the Qur'an and Sunnah. Allah mentions Safa and Marwa in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:158), declaring that “indeed Safa and Marwa are among the symbols of Allah.” Every pilgrim, regardless of age or gender, is required to perform As-Sai as part of Umrah.
Connection to Hajar (AS) and the Story of Zamzam
Hajar's unwavering trust in Allah during a moment of immense desperation led to the miraculous appearance of the Zamzam well. Her journey between the hills reflects a universal message for believers: sincere effort coupled with reliance on Allah brings divine blessings.
Understanding this context adds depth to your As-Sai, especially when you travel from the UK with an Umrah package from London, often unaware of the profound stories behind these rituals.
Where Does As-Sai Take Place?
The Geography of Safa and Marwa in Masjid al-Haram
Safa and Marwa are two modest elevations located inside the Grand Mosque. The distance between them is approximately 450 meters, and the entire As-Sai consists of walking back and forth seven times—starting at Safa and ending at Marwa.
How the Path Has Evolved Over Time
Originally outdoors, the area has been modernized over centuries to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims. Today, the pathway is enclosed, air-conditioned, and wheelchair-accessible. This ensures that even elderly or physically challenged pilgrims can complete the ritual with dignity and ease.
If you're booking an Umrah package from London, choosing a provider like Umrah Tours ensures you’re informed about how to navigate this sacred space efficiently, especially if it's your first time.
How to Perform As-Sai – Step-by-Step Guide
Prerequisites Before Starting (e.g., Tawaf, Wudu)
Before starting As-Sai, you must:
- Complete Tawaf (the seven circumambulations around the Kaaba).
- Be in a state of Wudu (ritual purity).
- Wear Ihram, especially for men, as per Sunnah.
This is where understanding what is Ihram becomes essential. Ihram is not just clothing—it's a spiritual state of consecration.
Starting at Safa: What to Say and Do
- Begin by ascending a little onto the hill of Safa.
- Face the Kaaba and make du’a (supplication).
- Recite the verse: “Indeed, Safa and Marwa are among the symbols of Allah...” (2:158)
Then say “Allahu Akbar” three times and begin walking.
Walking Between the Hills: Physical and Spiritual Focus
- Men should lightly jog between the green markers (around 55m), imitating Hajar’s haste.
- Women should walk at a steady pace.
- Use this time for dhikr (remembrance), du’a, and reflection.
Completing the Journey at Marwa
Each leg of the walk counts as one—so Safa to Marwa is one, Marwa to Safa is two, and so on until you end at Marwa after the seventh leg.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Losing count—use fingers or a tally counter.
- Not being in Wudu.
- Rushing the ritual without reflection.
For pilgrims using an Umrah package from London, Umrah Tours often provides group guides to help you perform As-Sai correctly and confidently.
Ihram and As-Sai – What You Need to Know
What Is Ihram and Why It Matters
Ihram is both a garment and a spiritual state. Men wear two white unstitched cloths, while women wear modest dress without covering the face or hands. It's a reminder of equality before Allah.
Rules of Conduct During As-Sai
While in Ihram, pilgrims must:
- Avoid cutting hair or nails.
- Refrain from arguments or foul language.
- Maintain humility and patience.
These restrictions are active during As-Sai, making spiritual awareness key.
Wearing Ihram Properly for This Ritual
Pilgrims departing from the UK often wonder when and where to don the Ihram. If you’re flying with an Umrah package from London, your airline may notify you before reaching the Miqat—the boundary where Ihram must be worn.
Umrah Tours ensures you’re fully briefed on how to wear Ihram and uphold its sanctity, especially during As-Sai.
Practical Tips for First-Time Pilgrims
How to Prepare Physically for As-Sai
- Practice walking long distances.
- Wear supportive footwear (for non-Tawaf areas).
- Stay hydrated and avoid performing As-Sai in peak heat if possible.
Mindset and Spiritual Reflection
Remember, As-Sai is about emulating a mother’s desperate faith and Allah’s response. Let every step remind you of your own trials and Allah’s mercy.
Navigating the Crowds
- Stick to the sides if you walk slowly.
- Be mindful of group movements.
- Use crowd-control ropes and signs.
Suitable Times to Perform As-Sai
Early morning or late evening tends to be less crowded and cooler—ideal for families and elderly pilgrims.
For those using an Umrah package from London, your itinerary from Umrah Tours may recommend specific time slots to avoid congestion.
Why Book an Umrah Package from London?
Benefits for First-Time Pilgrims
Booking a reliable Umrah package from London streamlines your journey. It includes:
- Visa processing
- Flights and transfers
- Hotel accommodation near the Haram
- Guided rituals (including As-Sai)
How Umrah Tours Simplifies Your Experience
Umrah Tours understands the needs of UK-based Muslims. Their packages include group leaders, spiritual seminars, and local support to guide you through each step—from Ihram to Sa’i.
Choosing the Right Package
- Look for flexible dates and budget tiers.
- Prioritise companies with strong reviews and UK-based customer service.
- Ask if the package includes briefings on how to prepare for Umrah.
Trusting a well-reviewed provider like Umrah Tours ensures a smoother, more spiritually enriching journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is As-Sai Physically Difficult?
It involves around 3.15 km of walking. While not overly strenuous, it can be tiring in heat or with mobility issues.
Can I Perform As-Sai in a Wheelchair?
Yes, Masjid al-Haram has wheelchair-accessible lanes. Many travel packages, including from Umrah Tours, offer wheelchair rental support.
Do I Need to Recite Anything During As-Sai?
There is no mandatory recitation, but making du’a and remembering Allah is highly encouraged.
Can I Perform As-Sai on a Different Day from Tawaf?
Ideally, As-Sai follows Tawaf immediately. However, if delayed for a valid reason, it may be performed later, but still within the valid time frame for Umrah rites.
Useful Links for Your Umrah Journey
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