Performing Sa’i between Safa and Marwa is one of the essential rituals of Umrah and Hajj. For UK Muslims planning their sacred journey to Mecca, understanding the Safa Marwa dua with its Arabic text, English translation, and spiritual meaning is crucial. This act of worship is deeply rooted in the Qur’an and Sunnah and reminds believers of patience, trust, and reliance upon Allah.
Many British pilgrims preparing through organized travel options such as Umrah Packages 2026 from the UK often attend seminars to learn the correct method of Sa’i and the authentic supplications to recite. Preparing spiritually before departure allows pilgrims to focus fully on worship once they reach the Sacred Mosque.
Safa and Marwa in the Light of the Qur’an
Allah says in the Qur’an:
“Indeed, Safa and Marwa are among the symbols of Allah…” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:158)
This verse establishes the importance of these two blessed hills. Sa’i commemorates the struggle of Hajar (AS), the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), as she ran between Safa and Marwa searching for water for her son Ismail (AS). Her unwavering trust in Allah led to the miracle of Zamzam.
When pilgrims walk between Safa and Marwa, they are not just performing a ritual; they are reliving a powerful story of faith, patience, and hope.
What to Recite at Safa and Marwa
When approaching Safa for the first time, it is Sunnah to recite the Qur’anic verse:
Safa Marwa dua in Arabic:
إِنَّ الصَّفَا وَالْمَرْوَةَ مِن شَعَائِرِ اللَّهِ
Then say:
أَبْدَأُ بِمَا بَدَأَ اللَّهُ بِهِ
(I begin with what Allah began with.)
After climbing Safa and facing the Kaaba, raise your hands and recite:
الله أكبر، الله أكبر، الله أكبر
لا إله إلا الله وحده لا شريك له، له الملك وله الحمد، وهو على كل شيء قدير
لا إله إلا الله وحده، أنجز وعده، ونصر عبده، وهزم الأحزاب وحده
Safa Marwa Dua in English
Safa Marwa dua in English:
Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest.
There is no god but Allah alone, without a partner.
To Him belongs all dominion and praise, and He has power over all things.
There is no god but Allah alone. He fulfilled His promise, supported His servant, and defeated the confederates alone.
This dua is recited three times, with personal supplications made in between. Pilgrims may ask Allah for forgiveness, guidance, health, rizq, and Jannah.
Is There a Specific Dua During Sa’i?
Many UK pilgrims ask whether there is a fixed dua to recite while walking between Safa and Marwa. According to authentic narrations of Prophet Muhammad, there is no specific prescribed dua for every step. Instead, pilgrims may:
- Recite dhikr (SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar)
- Send salutations upon the Prophet ﷺ
- Make personal duas in any language
This flexibility is a mercy from Allah, especially for English-speaking Muslims from the UK who may find it easier to express heartfelt supplications in their own language.
Spiritual Meaning of Safa Marwa Dua
The act of Sa’i teaches powerful spiritual lessons:
1. Tawakkul (Trust in Allah)
Hajar (AS) ran seven times, yet she never lost hope. Her effort shows that Muslims must strive while relying on Allah.
2. Patience in Hardship
Sa’i reminds pilgrims that relief comes after struggle, just as Zamzam came after Hajar’s perseverance.
3. Unity of the Ummah
Walking alongside Muslims from different nations reflects equality before Allah.
For UK Muslims living busy lives, this ritual offers a moment to disconnect from worldly stress and reconnect spiritually.
Practical Tips for UK Pilgrims
Traveling from cities like London, Manchester, or Birmingham involves long flights and time zone adjustments. Before departure:
- Memorize the key duas.
- Understand the meaning behind each supplication.
- Stay hydrated, especially in warmer Saudi weather.
- Keep a small dua booklet or digital notes on your phone.
Learning both Safa Marwa dua in Arabic and its English meaning ensures deeper concentration (khushu’) during worship.
Making the Most of Your Umrah Journey
While Sa’i itself may take around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on crowds, the spiritual impact lasts a lifetime. Many British pilgrims extend their stay to increase voluntary worship in the Haram.
Choosing reliable travel services, such as Umrah Packages from Birmingham, can reduce logistical stress so pilgrims can focus entirely on ibadah. Organized arrangements help ensure proper guidance regarding rituals like Tawaf and Sa’i.
Conclusion
Safa Marwa dua is more than words recited during Sa’i; it is a declaration of faith, gratitude, and complete reliance upon Allah. Rooted in the Qur’an and practiced by the Prophet ﷺ, this ritual connects modern believers to a timeless story of devotion.
For UK Muslims planning their sacred journey, learning the Safa Marwa dua in Arabic, understanding its English translation, and reflecting on its meaning transforms Umrah into a deeply spiritual experience. May Allah accept the efforts of all pilgrims and grant them sincerity, patience, and forgiveness. Ameen.