Safa and Marwa are two small hills now located in the Great Mosque of Mecca in Saudi Arabia that are traversed by pilgrims during the ritual of Sa'i as part of the Hajj and Umrah. To reach Safa and Marwa, you will first need to get to Mecca (Makkah), which has specific travel requirements due to its religious significance.
The nearest airport to Mecca is King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah. International pilgrims typically arrive here and can then take a bus, taxi, or private car to reach Mecca, which is about 100 kilometers away. The trip by road usually takes around 1 to 2 hours.
Those in the region may choose to travel by car or bus. Saudi Arabia has a well-maintained network of highways. Buses run by the government or private companies link Mecca to major cities. It's also possible to rent a car but make sure if you're traveling during the Hajj period to plan well in advance due to heavy traffic and special regulations.
The Haramain High-Speed Railway connects Jeddah to Mecca, providing a fast and efficient way to travel between the cities. The train journey takes less than an hour.
Visa: Non-Muslim visitors are prohibited from entering the holy city of Mecca. Muslims who wish to undertake the pilgrimage must apply for a special Hajj or Umrah visa. Be sure to arrange this through a certified travel agency well in advance.
Permits: During the Hajj, additional permits are required due to the large number of pilgrims. Make sure you have all the necessary documentation.
Once you arrive in Mecca, Safa and Marwa are situated within the Masjid al-Haram complex. Pilgrims and visitors can walk to the site from any part of the city if staying close by.
Remember, Safa and Marwa are part of a sacred ritual in Islam, and it's important to approach your visit with respect for the religious practices taking place.
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