Safa Marwa Distance with Kids or Family: Practical Tips for a Smooth Sa’ee

One of the most spiritually moving pilgrimage rituals, Sa’ee transforms pilgrims’ lives. It is a familiar ritual shared by both the obligatory pilgrimage, Hajj, and the voluntary pilgrimage, Umrah. This shows the exceptional spiritual significance of this sacred ritual. It is not only a part of Islamic history but also a source of many life lessons for the pilgrims. Also, it requires an extensive walk, which is why every pilgrim needs practical tips for a smooth Sa’ee. 

When you go for the pilgrimage with your family or with the elderly, Sa’ee not only becomes much more spiritually reviving but also practical. From planning your pace to preparing your family in advance, you will need to do everything you can to ensure the smoothest experience. If you are among the fortunate UK families looking for an Umrah package and planning to go on the pilgrimage soon, you must understand the Sa’ee and practical tips for performing it. We are here with a comprehensive guide to help you with your Sa’ee. 

What is the Safa and Marwah Distance?

As you might already know, Sa’ee is the pilgrimage ritual in which you have to walk between the two sacred hills, Safa and Marwah. The one-way distance between the two hills is around 396 metres. And you will have to make seven rounds around these two hills. When you walk from Safa to Marwah, it counts as one round, and from Marwah to Safa as the second. This way, you have to complete seven rounds. 

The total distance that you will have to cover for your Sa’ee is around 2.8–3.5 km. It takes 40 to 90 minutes to cover this distance, depending on your pace and the route you take. Pilgrims performing the ritual with their families tend to opt for a slower pace to help one another. This doesn’t affect the ritual’s spiritual essence in any way. 

What to Expect While Performing Sa’ee With Family?

If you are planning a pilgrimage with your family for the first time, you might be curious about what to expect during Sa’ee. No doubt it is one of the most spiritually uplifting rituals that gives you a chance to bond with your family and immerse yourselves in supplications together. You can also make your personal duas during this ritual. This ritual is also physically manageable and can be a lot smoother with a bit of planning beforehand. Therefore, you must not stress out about it. 

One thing to keep in mind is that Sa’ee can be tiring for the children, especially during busy hours. So, make sure you slow down and take breaks if necessary. Also, pack some nutritious snacks, water, and juice for your kids and yourself to boost your energy and hydration. If you have an elderly person with you, you can opt for the electric carts to make Sa’ee easier and less tiring for them. 

Practical Tips for Smooth Sa’ee With Family

Now that you know what to expect when performing Sa’ee with your family, it is time we share some practical tips to make your journey easier and more memorable. 

Pick the Right Time to Start

Starting at the right time can make a huge difference in how smooth your Sa’ee experience is. You can avoid heat exhaustion and large crowds by choosing a time for your Sa’ee wisely. 

Some of the best times to perform this ritual with your family include after Fajar and late in the evening after Isha. You can choose the midday only if you stay inside the AC cooling zones. Additionally, midday can be a good option if you plan to undertake your pilgrimage during the off-season, as crowds will be less of an issue at this time. 

Use the Family & Special Needs Zones

There are family-friendly and special-needs zones in the Sa’ee area to facilitate pilgrims. In the Sa’ee corridor, you will find wider walkways, escalators and lifts, wheelchair lanes, and spots dedicated to the elderly and families. Make the most of these areas as you perform the ritual with your family. 

Also, if you are performing Sa’ee with a stroller or a wheelchair, choose the upper floor for your ritual. This floor is much more spacious and will be the perfect option for you. 

Take Short Breaks Between Circuits

You don’t have to worry about competing with other pilgrims. Everyone has their own pace and stamina. As someone performing the ritual with your family, you must focus on their convenience and comfort. It is recommended that you take short breaks between circuits to avoid exhaustion. 

You can stop near the green light area, as the kids are always fascinated by it. Take this opportunity to share the story behind this area with your kids. There are also side benches on the upper floors where you can sit for a while during your breaks. 

Carry Only Essentials

As you will be walking long distances, it is vital that you only carry your essentials. Make sure that your hands are free and keep your kids close. Some essentials for a convenient experience include water bottles, a small snack bag for the kids, an Ihram-safe bag, wet wipes, tissues, and a lightweight stroller, if your kids require one. 

Don’t overpack. This will only make you carry heavy bags during your Sa’ee and tire you. Focus on light walking to make the experience smoother and more convenient. 

Final Words

Sa’ee is all about reflecting on the powerful story of Hajar and supplicating. While walking between Safa and Marwah, pilgrims realise the true strength of having complete faith in the Almighty. It teaches you patience, faith, and resilience. As you perform this Umrah ritual with your family, teach your children these values and virtues, and plan everything to ensure a smoother experience.