Traveling is an essential part of life, whether for work, education, leisure, or religious purposes. In Islam, travel is considered an opportunity for self-reflection, strengthening faith, and appreciating Allah’s creation. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) provided us with specific supplications (Dua for travelling) to ensure safety, blessings, and guidance during our journeys.
This article highlights the importance of duas while traveling and shares the recommended supplications and practices.
Why Make Dua When Travelling?
Travel is often accompanied by challenges, uncertainties, and risks. Making dua before and during travel provides:
- Protection: From unforeseen dangers and hardships.
- Blessings: In time, resources, and purpose of travel.
- Guidance: To stay connected with Allah and maintain righteousness.
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
“Three duas are not rejected: the dua of a father, the dua of a fasting person, and the dua of a traveler.” (Tirmidhi, 1905)
Dua for Travelling (Before Starting the Journey)
When beginning a journey, recite this dua:
Subhanalladhi sakhkhara lana hadha wa ma kunna lahu muqrinin wa inna ila rabbina lamunqaliboon.
Translation: “Glory is to Him Who has brought this (vehicle) under our control, though we were unable to control it. And surely, to our Lord, we are returning.”
(Surah Az-Zukhruf, 43:13-14)
Comprehensive Travel Supplication
This dua was taught by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and is ideal for travel:
Allahumma inni as’aluka fi safarina hadha al-birra wat-taqwa, wa minal-‘amali ma tarda. Allahumma hawwin ‘alayna safarana hadha watwi ‘anna bu’dahu. Allahumma Antas-saahibu fissafari, wal-khalifatu fil-ahli. Allahumma inni a‘udhu bika min wa‘thaa’is-safari, wa ka’abatil-manzari, wa suu’il-munqalabi fil-maali wal-ahli.
Translation:
“O Allah, we ask You for righteousness and piety in this journey and for actions that please You. O Allah, make this journey easy for us and shorten its distance. O Allah, You are our Companion on this journey and the Guardian of our family (left behind). O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the difficulties of travel, from having a bad view (of future events), and from an unhappy return concerning our wealth and family.” (Muslim, 1342)
Dua Upon Arrival at a New Place
When you reach your destination, recite:
A‘udhu bikalimaatillahi-ttammaati min sharri ma khalaq.
Translation:
“I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created.” (Muslim, 2708)
This dua offers protection from any harm or danger in the new location.
Important Islamic Practices While Travelling
- Shortening of Prayers (Qasr):
- Travelers are allowed to shorten the four-unit prayers (Dhuhr, Asr, and Isha) to two units.
- Combining prayers (e.g., Dhuhr with Asr or Maghrib with Isha) is also permissible in certain conditions.
- Maintain Zikr and Gratitude:
Continuously remember Allah during your journey by reciting:- Tasbeeh: “SubhanAllah”
- Tahmeed: “Alhamdulillah”
- Takbeer: “Allahu Akbar”
- Charity and Helping Others:
Before traveling, giving sadaqah (charity) is a Sunnah that ensures blessings and protection.
Etiquettes of Islamic Travel
- Begin with Bismillah (In the name of Allah).
- Use permissible and ethical means of travel.
- Be mindful of others’ comfort and rights.
- Return home with gifts or kind gestures for your family, as per the Sunnah.
Conclusion
Travel is both a physical and spiritual journey in Islam. By making duas, staying connected with Allah, and adhering to Islamic practices, a traveler can turn their journey into a source of blessings and protection. Always remember that Allah is the ultimate protector and companion on every journey.