JOURNEY OF FAITH : TAWAF IFADAH & SAIE AND TAWAF WIDA (2017)

In 2017 (1438 AH), the Hajj journey for Malaysian pilgrims was particularly significant as it marked the official launch of the Makkah Route Initiative. This program, which started first in Malaysia, streamlined the arrival process, allowing pilgrims to complete Saudi immigration and customs at KLIA before even leaving the country.

Here is a breakdown of the specific rituals and the transition to Madinah for the 2017 season.

1. Tawaf Ifadhah & Saie

For Malaysian pilgrims, Tawaf Ifadhah is the "Pillar of Hajj" (Rukun Haji) that is typically performed after returning from the stoning of the devil (Jamarat) in Mina.

The Tawaf Ifadhah

• The Ritual: Pilgrims performed seven circumambulations around the Kaaba. In 2017, the crowd was immense as over 2 million pilgrims gathered. Many Malaysians, guided by Tabung Haji (TH), chose to perform this in the late evening or early morning to avoid the peak afternoon heat.
• Logistics: Most Muassasah pilgrims (those under the standard Tabung Haji package) walked or took shuttle buses from their Makkah hotels to the Masjidil Haram. In 2017, the newly expanded mataf (circumambulation area) was fully utilized, providing more space on multiple levels.

The Saie (Safa to Marwah)

• Distance: After Tawaf, pilgrims moved to the Mas'a (the gallery between the hills of Safa and Marwah) to walk seven laps (approximately 3.5 km in total).
• Malaysian Experience: Tabung Haji officers and medical teams were stationed along the route to assist elderly pilgrims. For those who were physically unable, electric scooters (available for rent on the upper floors) became a popular option in 2017 to complete the Saie comfortably.

After completed the Tawaf Ifadah & Saie - Hj Zulheimy and Hjh Norziah have completed the Hajj (Alhamdulillah)

Sa'ie from Safa to Marwah

2. Transition: Makkah to Madinah

For those who performed Hajj first (First Phase pilgrims), the journey to Madinah occurred after all Hajj rituals were completed.

The "Nafar" and Farewell

Before leaving Makkah, pilgrims performed the Tawaf Wada’ (Farewell Tawaf). This is the final act of worship before departing the holy city.

The Journey (Inter-City Travel)

• Mode of Transport: In 2017, the primary mode of transport between Makkah and Madinah was via Muassasah buses. While the Haramain High-Speed Railway was in its final testing phases, it was not yet the standard for pilgrim transport that year.
• Duration: The 450 km journey typically took 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and the mandatory stop at the Wadi al-Far'a or similar rest areas.
• Organization: Tabung Haji managed the "check-out" from Makkah hotels in stages. Luggage was often transported in separate lorries to ensure the buses remained spacious for the pilgrims.

3. Arrival in Madinah

Upon arriving in Madinah, Malaysian pilgrims were usually housed in hotels within the Markaziyah area (the zone immediately surrounding the Prophet’s Mosque).

• Ziarah (Visiting): The focus in Madinah shifted from the rigorous physical rites of Hajj to spiritual reflection. Pilgrims visited the Raudhah (the area within the Prophet's Mosque) and the tomb of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
• Makkah Route Impact: For those arriving via Madinah at the start of their trip, the 2017 Makkah Route Initiative meant they bypassed all airport queues and went straight from the plane to their hotel buses, with their luggage delivered directly to their rooms.

Note for 2017 Pilgrims: This year was also remembered for the "extreme heat" during the Hajj season, with temperatures often exceeding 45°C. Tabung Haji's health clinics in Makkah and Madinah were particularly active in managing heatstroke and dehydration cases.

Reference:

1. Hajj Journey 2017 - Tawaf Ifadah & Saie / Mekah to Madinah
2. Hajj Journey 2017 - Al Anwar Madinah Movenpick Hotel

Compiled by:

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

Hajj 2017 pilgrim

30/12/2025: 1.39 p.m