Walking between Safa and Marwa is a moment that stays with every UK pilgrim long after their Umrah. The dua for Safa and Marwa is one of the most searched, most heartfelt parts of the Umrah journey. If you’re standing in Masjid al-Haram right now — or preparing for your trip — this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through every dua, every lap, and every emotion, including Arabic, transliteration, and English translation, all in one place. This is part of our complete Umrah dua list designed for UK Muslims in 2026.
If you’d like help planning your trip or want a free dua card, our Noor Umrah Travels team is just a call away.
What Is Sai and Why Do Muslims Walk Between Safa and Marwa?
Sai means to strive, to walk with purpose. In Umrah and Hajj, Sai is the act of walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa, inside Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. It’s the fourth pillar of Umrah, coming right after Tawaf (circling the Kaaba). The dua for Safa and Marwa is woven into this act — it’s not just a ritual, but a spiritual journey in itself.
This walk is not random. It’s a living memory of Hajar (AS) and her search for water for her son Ismail (AS). Allah mentions these hills in the Quran:
Quran 2:158: "Indeed, Safa and Marwa are among the symbols of Allah." (quran.com)
Every step you take is an act of worship, a retelling of her faith and struggle.
The Story of Hajar Between Safa and Marwa — The Origin of Sai
This story sits at the heart of Sai. Picture it: Hajar (AS), left by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) in the barren valley of Makkah with her infant son, Ismail. Water runs out. Her baby cries in thirst. The desert is silent. Hajar climbs Safa hill, scanning the horizon — nothing. She rushes to Marwa. Still nothing. Back again. Seven times she runs, desperate, her heart pounding with hope and fear.
On her seventh trip, Allah sends Jibreel (AS). Suddenly, Zamzam water bursts from the ground under Ismail’s tiny feet. This is the miracle. This is why, when you do Sai, you walk in Hajar’s footsteps — pushing through tiredness, trusting in Allah’s mercy, and hoping for your own Zamzam.
Want to know more about Zamzam and its miracles? Read our Zamzam water guide.
Before You Begin Sai — The Starting Dua at Safa
Before you start Sai, make sure you have completed Tawaf with its duas. Then, approach Safa hill. There’s a special dua for Safa and Marwa that begins this act.
The Quranic Verse to Recite When Approaching Safa
When you first reach Safa, recite this verse — Quran 2:158:
Quranic Verse for Safa (first approach only)
Arabic
Transliteration
Innas-Safa wal-Marwata min sha'a'irillah
Translation
Indeed, Safa and Marwa are among the symbols of Allah.
Reference
Quran 2:158
Then say: "Abda'u bima bada'Allahu bihi" — I begin with what Allah began with.
You only recite this Quran verse once — at the very first approach to Safa. Not on every lap. This is the Sunnah, as practiced by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). (Muslim 1218)
The Sunnah Dua for Safa and Marwa — Dhikr at the Top of Each Hill
Each time you reach the top of Safa or Marwa, face the Kaaba, raise your hands, and recite the confirmed Sunnah dhikr for Safa and Marwa. This is the main dua for safa and marwa in Umrah and Hajj.
Sunnah Dhikr at Safa and Marwa (each hill, each lap)
Arabic
Transliteration
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lah. Lahul-mulku walahul-hamdu wa huwa ala kulli shay'in qadeer. La ilaha illallahu wahdah. Anjaza wa'dah, wa nasara abdah, wa hazamal-ahzaba wahdah.
Translation
Allah is the Greatest (x3). None has the right to be worshipped except Allah alone, without partner. To Him belongs all dominion and all praise, and He has power over all things. None has the right to be worshipped except Allah alone. He fulfilled His promise, granted victory to His servant, and defeated the confederates alone.
Reference
Muslim 1218
Recite this three times at Safa, making personal dua between each repetition. Do the same at Marwa. This is the best dua for Sai and the only one confirmed by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
An Important Note — Are There Fixed Duas for Each Lap of Sai?
Let’s clear up one of the biggest confusions UK pilgrims have: There is no fixed dua for each lap of Sai prescribed by the Prophet (peace be upon him). The only confirmed Sunnah dhikr is the one at the top of each hill, as above. In between, you may recite any Quran, dhikr, or personal dua — in Arabic, English, or your own language. There’s no need to panic if you miss a specific phrase.
That said, many scholars have shared beautiful recommended duas for each lap to help you focus. We’ve listed them below for spiritual benefit. But remember: any dua is valid. Speak from your heart — Allah listens to every word.
Recommended Duas While Walking Between Safa and Marwa — Lap by Lap
Below are scholar-recommended duas for each of the 7 laps of Sai. Each is given in Arabic, transliteration, and English, with a short reflection for every lap. You may recite these or any other dua you wish. The main thing is sincerity.
Dua for Sai — A Beautiful Supplication for Walking Between the Hills
General Sai Dua (can be recited throughout)
Arabic
Transliteration
Rabbighfir warham innaka Antal-A'azzul-Akram
Translation
My Lord, forgive and have mercy. Indeed, You are the Most Mighty, the Most Generous.
Reference
Recommended by scholars
This can be repeated any time as you walk between Safa and Marwa.
Lap 1 (Safa to Marwa) — Seeking Guidance
Lap 1 Dua for Guidance (Quran 1:6-7)
Arabic
Transliteration
Ihdinas-siratal-mustaqeem. Siratal-ladhina an'amta alayhim.
Translation
Guide us to the straight path. The path of those You have blessed.
Reference
Quran 1:6-7
As you step forward, ask Allah to guide your journey — just as He guided Hajar.
Lap 2 (Marwa to Safa) — Asking for Forgiveness
Lap 2 Dua for Forgiveness (Quran 3:147)
Arabic
Transliteration
Rabbanaghfir lana dhunoobana wa israfana fi amrina wa thabbit aqdamana wansurna alal-qawmil-kafireen.
Translation
Our Lord, forgive us our sins and our excess in our affairs and plant our feet firmly and give us victory over the disbelieving people.
Reference
Quran 3:147 (quran.com)
Moving between the hills, ask Allah to forgive past mistakes and make your faith strong.
Lap 3 (Safa to Marwa) — Dua for Safa and Marwa Seeking Provision
Lap 3 Dua for Provision (Quran 65:3)
Arabic
Transliteration
Wa man yatawakkal alallahi fahuwa hasbuh. Innallaha balighu amrih.
Translation
And whoever puts their trust in Allah, He will be enough for them. Indeed, Allah achieves His purpose.
Reference
Quran 65:3 (quran.com)
Trust Allah with every need — just as Hajar did when Zamzam appeared.
Lap 4 (Marwa to Safa) — Asking for Patience and Strength
Lap 4 Dua for Patience (Quran 2:250)
Arabic
Transliteration
Rabbana afrigh alayna sabran wa thabbit aqdamana wansurna alal-qawmil-kafireen.
Translation
Our Lord, pour upon us patience and plant our feet firmly and give us victory.
Reference
Quran 2:250 (quran.com)
When your legs ache, this dua will carry you through. Ask for patience and strength.
Lap 5 (Safa to Marwa) — Dua for Family at Safa and Marwa
Lap 5 Dua for Family (Quran 25:74)
Arabic
Transliteration
Rabbana hab lana min azwajina wa dhurriyyatina qurrata a'yunin waj'alna lil-muttaqina imama.
Translation
Our Lord, grant us from our spouses and offspring comfort to our eyes and make us leaders of the righteous.
Reference
Quran 25:74 (quran.com)
Pray for your family — Hajar ran for her son. Let your dua cover loved ones near and far.
Lap 6 (Marwa to Safa) — Seeking Protection
Lap 6 Dua for Protection (Quran 23:97-98)
Arabic
Transliteration
Rabbi a'udhu bika min hamazatish-shayateen. Wa a'udhu bika Rabbi an yahdurun.
Translation
My Lord, I seek refuge in You from the whispers of the devils. And I seek refuge in You, my Lord, lest they be present with me.
Reference
Quran 23:97-98 (quran.com)
Ask Allah to protect your heart and keep you focused on Him.
Lap 7 (Safa to Marwa — Final Lap) — Dua for Acceptance
Lap 7 Dua for Acceptance (Quran 2:127)
Arabic
Transliteration
Rabbana taqabbal minna innaka Antas-Samee'ul-Aleem.
Translation
Our Lord, accept this from us. Indeed, You are the Hearing, the Knowing.
Reference
Quran 2:127 (quran.com)
End your Sai with this powerful prayer — it was the dua of Ibrahim and Ismail (AS) after building the Kaaba.
| Lap | Direction | Theme | Arabic (First Words) | English Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Safa → Marwa | Guidance | اهْدِنَا الصِّرَاطَ الْمُسْتَقِيمَ | Guide us to the straight path |
| 2 | Marwa → Safa | Forgiveness | رَبَّنَا اغْفِرْ لَنَا ذُنُوبَنَا | Forgive us our sins and plant our feet firm |
| 3 | Safa → Marwa | Provision | وَمَن يَتَوَكَّلْ عَلَى اللَّهِ | Whoever trusts Allah, He is enough |
| 4 | Marwa → Safa | Patience | رَبَّنَا أَفْرِغْ عَلَيْنَا صَبْرًا | Pour upon us patience |
| 5 | Safa → Marwa | Family | رَبَّنَا هَبْ لَنَا مِنْ أَزْوَاجِنَا | Grant us comfort from our families |
| 6 | Marwa → Safa | Protection | رَبِّ أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ هَمَزَاتِ | I seek refuge from the devils |
| 7 | Safa → Marwa | Acceptance | رَبَّنَا تَقَبَّلْ مِنَّا | Accept this from us |
What Happens at the Green Markers During Sai
Between Safa and Marwa, you’ll notice two sets of bright green fluorescent lights above the corridor. These mark a special section — the valley where Hajar could not see her baby and ran faster out of worry. Men should jog or walk briskly between the green markers. Women walk at their normal pace throughout. There is no specific dua for this section — just continue with your chosen dhikr or dua.
These green lights commemorate Hajar’s worry and her extra effort. It’s a moving moment. Men, remember: only jog between the green markers. Outside that area, walk normally.
What to Do After Completing All 7 Laps of Sai
Your Sai ends at Marwa after the seventh lap. Stand, make a final personal dua — pour your heart out. This is a moment of acceptance. Then proceed to Halq (shaving your head, men) or Taqsir (trimming hair, women). Women trim a fingertip length from the end of their hair. Once this is done, your Umrah is complete and you exit Ihram. All Ihram restrictions are now lifted. For full details on Ihram rules and step-by-step Umrah, see our full guides.
Sai Rules Every Pilgrim Should Know
Here are the Sai rules every UK pilgrim should know. We’ve helped thousands of British families, and these are the most important points we share — especially for first-timers.
Essential Sai Rules for Men and Women
- Start at Safa, end at Marwa.
- 7 laps total. Safa to Marwa = 1. Marwa to Safa = 2. And so on.
- Face the Kaaba direction at the top of Safa and Marwa before making dua.
- Men jog briskly between the green markers. Women walk normally throughout.
- Wudu (ablution) is recommended but NOT required for Sai. (Unlike Tawaf, where wudu is required.)
- Complete Tawaf before starting Sai. See our tawaf dua guide.
- Continuity is recommended, but you can take breaks if needed.
Practical Sai Tips for UK Pilgrims Performing It for the First Time
- The Sai corridor has several floors. Upper floors are usually less crowded — ideal for UK families or elderly.
- The total walking distance is about 3.15 km for all 7 laps. Wear comfortable shoes or sandals (permitted for Sai).
- Stay hydrated. Zamzam water coolers are available along the corridor.
- Use a counter app on your phone or a simple tasbeeh to track your laps. (Trust us, it’s easy to lose count.)
- Don’t rush. Sai is not a race. Walk with purpose and remembrance.
- From our Noor Umrah Travels experience: do Sai during quieter hours — after Isha or early morning. It’s easier, especially for UK first-timers.
If you’d like our team to help you plan the best time for your Umrah or want a free printable dua card, just contact Noor Umrah Travels — we’re here for UK pilgrims every step of the way.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Sai Duas
Here are the top mistakes we see UK pilgrims make during Sai and its duas. Don’t worry if you’ve made one — now you know how to avoid them!
- Forgetting to recite the Quranic verse (Innassafa wal-Marwata) when first approaching Safa. It is only said once, not at every lap.
- Reciting the verse at every lap — remember, it’s just at the very first approach to Safa.
- Panicking about missing a fixed dua for each lap. There isn’t one — your personal dua is always accepted.
- Only reading from a book or phone, without making heartfelt personal dua. Speak from your heart.
- Women jogging between the green markers — this is only for men.
- Starting Sai from Marwa instead of Safa. Always begin at Safa.
- Not making dua at the top of Safa and Marwa. These are special, Sunnah moments of dua acceptance.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions About Dua for Safa and Marwa
Can you make dua in English during Sai or must it be Arabic?
You can make dua in any language during Sai, including English. There is no Islamic requirement to only recite Arabic between Safa and Marwa. The confirmed Sunnah dhikr at the top of each hill is in Arabic, but your personal duas while walking can be in any language. Allah understands every word regardless of language.
Can you read duas from your phone while doing Sai?
Yes. There is no prohibition on using your phone or a dua booklet during Sai. Many UK pilgrims download dua apps or save this guide on their phone and read from it while walking. Just balance screen reading with moments of genuine spiritual presence — look around, feel the history, and speak to Allah from your heart.
Do you need wudu for Sai?
No. Wudu is not a requirement for Sai according to the majority of scholars. This is different from Tawaf where wudu is required. However, being in a state of wudu is always preferred and recommended when performing any act of worship. If your wudu breaks during Sai, you may continue without repeating it.
Can women do Sai during their menstrual period?
Yes. Unlike Tawaf, women CAN perform Sai during their menstrual period according to the majority of scholars. This is an important practical point for UK female pilgrims. Tawaf must be delayed until purification, but Sai does not require the state of purity. Consult your group imam for specific guidance.
What should you do if you lose count of your Sai laps?
If you are unsure whether you completed 6 or 7 laps, take the lower number and complete one more to be safe. Always remember: odd-numbered laps end at Marwa, even-numbered laps end at Safa. So if you are at Marwa and unsure, you are on an odd lap. Use a counter app or tasbeeh to avoid confusion.
Can you take a break during Sai and resume later?
Yes. You may pause for rest, water, to pray a congregational salah, or for any genuine need. Resume from where you stopped. You do not need to restart from the beginning. The majority of scholars permit breaks during Sai as long as the gap is not unreasonably long.
What is the difference between Sai in Umrah and Sai in Hajj?
The physical act of Sai is identical in both Umrah and Hajj. You walk 7 laps between Safa and Marwa in both cases. The difference is timing: in Umrah, Sai comes after Tawaf al-Umrah. In Hajj, Sai comes after Tawaf al-Ifadah on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, or it can be done after Tawaf al-Qudum for those performing Hajj Tamattu.
Can you make dua for someone else during Sai?
Absolutely yes. Sai is a deeply personal act of worship and a prime time for dua. Pray for your parents, children, spouse, friends, those who are ill, and the entire Muslim Ummah. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said when you make dua for someone in their absence, an angel says Ameen and asks for the same for you.
DOWNLOAD: Free Sai Dua Card PDF – Click to Download
Conclusion
Every step you take between Safa and Marwa carries the weight of a mother’s love and trust in Allah. Hajar did not give up after one trip or two — she ran seven times. When your legs grow tired on lap 5 or 6, remember her. Pour every dua in your heart into these steps, because the Lord who answered Hajar in the desert is listening to you too. May Allah accept your Sai, answer your dua for Safa and Marwa, and reunite you with His House again and again. Ameen.
If you’re ready to book your Umrah or want help preparing spiritually and practically, speak to our Noor Umrah Travels team. We’re honoured to help UK pilgrims every step of the way in 2026 and beyond.
Written by Noor Umrah Travels Team | Last Updated: March 2026
Helpful next steps for UK pilgrims
If you want to turn this advice into a clear plan, the pages below will help you go one step further. They cover the wider rules, package choices, checklists, and practical travel points that usually come up after you finish a guide like this one.
- Hajj Packages UK 2026 This pillar page gives you the full background, key rules, and step-by-step context around this topic. It is the best place to go if you want the bigger picture before you make any travel decisions. It is especially helpful if you are looking for hajj packages uk.
- Umrah Packages from Bradford This page is useful when you want real options, package details, hotel information, and practical UK departure planning. It helps you compare what is available instead of staying at the research stage. It is especially helpful if you are looking for umrah packages from bradford.
- Best Ramadan Umrah Packages UK 2026: Full Month vs Last 10 Nights This supporting guide answers a closely related question and adds more detail, examples, or travel tips. It works well as your next read if you want a narrower answer after this main article. It is especially helpful if you are looking for Discover the best Ramadan Umrah Packages UK 2026. Compare full month vs last 10 nights, prices, and travel tips for UK pilgrims.
- Best Time to Perform Umrah 2026: Cheapest, Coolest & Least Crowded Months This supporting guide answers a closely related question and adds more detail, examples, or travel tips. It works well as your next read if you want a narrower answer after this main article. It is especially helpful if you are looking for Discover the best time to perform Umrah in 2026. Find cheapest, coolest, and least crowded months for a peaceful and affordable spiritual journey.
- 10 Days 3 Star Umrah Package This page is useful when you want real options, package details, hotel information, and practical UK departure planning. It helps you compare what is available instead of staying at the research stage.
- How Can You Get a Saudi eVisa from the UK? Complete Application Guide This supporting guide answers a closely related question and adds more detail, examples, or travel tips. It works well as your next read if you want a narrower answer after this main article. It is especially helpful if you are looking for Learn how to get a Saudi eVisa from the UK. Step-by-step guide covering requirements, fees, processing time, and travel tips.
Reading a few of these pages together will give you a fuller view than relying on one article alone. That matters even more when you are comparing routes, costs, rituals, and timing from the UK.
Small planning details make a big difference. A stronger plan usually means fewer rushed decisions, fewer missed steps, and a calmer journey overall. That is why we always suggest reading the core pillar guide, one practical package page, and a few narrower support articles before you book or travel.
Small planning details make a big difference. A stronger plan usually means fewer rushed decisions, fewer missed steps, and a calmer journey overall. That is why we always suggest reading the core pillar guide, one practical package page, and a few narrower support articles before you book or travel.
Small planning details make a big difference. A stronger plan usually means fewer rushed decisions, fewer missed steps, and a calmer journey overall. That is why we always suggest reading the core pillar guide, one practical package page, and a few narrower support articles before you book or travel.
