Sai - Seven Walks Between Safa and Marwa
Sai re-enacts Hajar’s search for water: seven passages between the hills of Safa and Marwa, brisk in the marked valley stretch for men.
Also searched as: sai ka tarika | safa marwa method | umrah sai steps
How to
Steps in order
- 1Climb Safa, face the Kaaba, praise Allah and make dua.
- 2Walk to Marwa (jog the green markers, men), return - count each passage.
- 3Complete seven passages ending at Marwa.
- 4Cut hair (shave preferred for men) - Umrah complete, ihram released.
The method
Climb Safa facing the Kaaba, praise Allah and make dua, then walk to Marwa - one passage; return makes two. Complete seven, ending at Marwa. Men jog lightly between the green-lit markers; women walk throughout.
Recite “Innas-safa wal-marwata min sha’airillah” at the start (2:158) and fill every passage with dhikr and personal dua - Hajar’s run is now your worship.
After sai
Men shave or trim the hair (shaving is more rewarded); women trim a fingertip-length. With that, Umrah is complete and ihram ends.
Sources & review
Quran 2:158; Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim (sai method)
Learn personal details from a qualified teacher; minor school differences exist.
Educational content — not a fatwa. See methodology and disclaimer.
Reviewed • 2026-01-01Our methodology
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Do I need wudu for sai?
Sai is valid without wudu, unlike tawaf - though performing it pure is better.
Must women jog between the markers?
No - the brisk walk is for men only; women walk the whole route.
Where does Umrah end?
At Marwa after the haircut - ihram restrictions lift immediately.
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