How to Perform Tawaf with Elderly Parents?
Performing Tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaaba) is a deeply spiritual and emotional experience, but for elderly parents, it can be physically demanding. Due to large crowds, long walking distances, and physical exertion, performing Tawaf with aged parents requires careful planning and consideration.
In this guide, we will cover practical tips to ensure your elderly parents can complete Tawaf comfortably and safely while maintaining the spiritual essence of the pilgrimage.
1. Choose the Right Time for Tawaf
Makkah is always crowded, but choosing the right time can make Tawaf easier for elderly pilgrims.
✅ Best Times to Perform Tawaf:
Late at night (after midnight) – Fewer crowds, cooler weather.
Early morning (after Fajr prayer) – Less heat, but moderately crowded.
After Isha prayer – The crowd begins to thin out.
🚫 Avoid Peak Hours:
Before and after Jumu’ah (Friday prayer)
During Maghrib and Isha prayers
During peak Ramadan and Hajj seasons
🔹 Tip: If your parents have difficulty waking up at night, consider early mornings for Tawaf.
2. Use Wheelchairs or Electric Scooters
For elderly parents who struggle with long walks, wheelchairs or electric scooters are an excellent solution.
🛑 Where to Find Wheelchairs & Scooters?
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Masjid al-Haram provides free wheelchairs at designated locations.
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Electric scooters can be rented from the King Abdullah Expansion area.
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Private rental services offer wheelchairs inside and outside the mosque.
🔹 Tip: If renting an electric scooter, book in advance as they get sold out quickly during peak times.
3. Perform Tawaf on the Upper Floors
The ground level is usually very crowded, making it difficult for elderly pilgrims to move safely. Instead, perform Tawaf on the upper floors, which are:
✅ More spacious and less crowded
✅ Equipped with escalators and elevators
✅ Easier for wheelchairs and scooters
🔹 Tip: If your parents are fit and prefer walking, the first floor is a great alternative with fewer crowds.
4. Stay Close and Hold Hands
During Tawaf, it’s easy to get separated in the crowd. To ensure safety:
🤝 Hold hands or link arms with your parents at all times.
👀 Stay on the outer circles to avoid the rush near the Kaaba.
🗣️ Agree on a meeting point in case you get separated.
🔹 Tip: If you do get separated, remain calm and head to a pre-decided location (like near the Safa-Marwah area).
5. Maintain a Comfortable Pace
Tawaf involves walking seven rounds around the Kaaba, which can be tiring for elderly parents. To make it easier:
🚶♂️ Walk at their pace – Never rush them.
🛑 Take short breaks after each round if needed.
💧 Stay hydrated – Carry a small bottle of Zamzam water.
🔹 Tip: The roof area is less crowded and offers a smoother experience, making it easier to maintain a comfortable pace.
6. Protect Them from Heat and Dehydration
Makkah can get extremely hot, especially in the afternoons. To protect elderly parents from heat exhaustion:
🧢 Wear a light cap or use an umbrella for shade.
💦 Drink plenty of Zamzam water before and after Tawaf.
🩴 Wear comfortable, cushioned footwear.
🌀 Stay in air-conditioned areas before and after Tawaf.
🔹 Tip: If your parents feel dizzy or weak, immediately move to a cooler area and give them water and dates for energy.
7. Keep Duas Simple and Meaningful
Many elderly parents may have difficulty remembering long Duas (supplications). Instead of overwhelming them, encourage:
🕌 Short and simple Duas
📖 Reciting Quranic verses or Durood Sharif
❤️ Making heartfelt personal prayers
🔹 Tip: Prepare a small Dua booklet or use an Islamic app on your phone for guidance.
8. Dress Comfortably and Prepare Essentials
To ensure a smooth experience for elderly parents:
👕 Wear loose, breathable clothing (cotton is best).
🎒 Carry a small bag with essentials:
Extra Ihram cloth or scarf
Zamzam water bottle
Snacks like dates and nuts
A small fan or cooling towel
🔹 Tip: Keep a portable prayer mat in case they need to rest after Tawaf.
9. Be Patient and Show Kindness
Performing Umrah with elderly parents is a blessing and an opportunity for reward. It’s essential to remain:
💙 Patient – They may need to stop often or move slowly.
🗣️ Encouraging – Remind them that every step is an act of worship.
👐 Supportive – Assist them with Duas, Ihram, and rituals.
🔹 Tip: If they feel tired or overwhelmed, reassure them that Allah appreciates their effort, even if they perform fewer acts.
10. Seek Help from Mosque Staff If Needed
If your parents face any health issues during Tawaf:
🚑 Visit the medical clinics inside Masjid al-Haram.
🆘 Ask mosque volunteers for assistance.
📍 Head to the Lost & Found area if separated.
🔹 Tip: Always carry a copy of their passport and hotel details in case of emergencies.
Final Thoughts
Performing Tawaf with elderly parents is an act of love, patience, and devotion. With the right preparation, you can ensure they have a comfortable and spiritually uplifting experience.
Key Takeaways:
✔️ Choose less crowded times for Tawaf.
✔️ Use wheelchairs or electric scooters if needed.
✔️ Stay close and walk at their pace.
✔️ Keep hydrated and protect them from heat.
✔️ Make simple Duas and focus on quality over quantity.
✔️ Show patience and kindness – serving parents is a path to Jannah!
May Allah accept your Umrah and reward you for caring for your parents!