How to Fast During the First Nine Days of Dhul-Hijjah
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are a gift. They are the most beloved days to Allah, even more than the days of Ramadan. Every good deed, including prayer, charity, fasting, and remembrance, carries multiplied rewards.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“There are no days on which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.”
(Bukhari)
These days offer multiple paths to worship. You can pray more, give more, fast more, and remember Allah more. All are encouraged, and all are blessed.
Is Fasting Dhul Hijjah Sunnah?
Fasting during the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah is a Sunnah practice. It is not required, but it is strongly recommended. The Prophet ﷺ was known to fast during this time, and scholars agree on its virtue.
The ninth day, the Day of Arafah, carries a unique reward. The Prophet ﷺ said that fasting on Arafah forgives the sins of the past year and the year to come. If you can fast only one day during Dhul Hijjah, choose this one.
Niyyah for Fasting in Dhul Hijjah
Every fast begins with intention. The niyyah should be made before Fajr each morning. It does not need to be spoken out loud. A sincere thought is enough.
You can simply intend in your heart:
“I intend to fast today for the sake of Allah during the days of Dhul Hijjah.”
This small step sets the tone for a meaningful day.
A Daily Fasting Plan for the First Nine Days
These sacred days are a chance to reset. Here’s a simple daily structure that fits into everyday life while helping you grow spiritually.
Before Fajr
- Eat Suhoor with intention
- Offer Tahajjud if possible
- Make du’a as the day begins
During the Day
- Pray each salah on time
- Increase your dhikr
- Listen to Quran or read a few verses
- Make small donations if you’re able
- Take quiet moments for reflection
At Maghrib
- Break your fast with something simple
- Make du’a before and after eating
- Thank Allah for the opportunity to fast
- Plan your acts of worship for the next day
Consistency matters more than perfection. Even small efforts count.
Fasting on the Day of Arafah
The ninth day of Dhul Hijjah is the Day of Arafah. For pilgrims, it is the day of standing at Arafah. For everyone else, it is a day of fasting, remembrance, and mercy.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year.”
( Muslim)
Make time for personal du’a throughout the day. This is one of the best chances in the year to ask for forgiveness, clarity, and peace.
Can You Fast on the Day of Eid al-Adha?
Eid al-Adha is the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. It is a day of celebration. Fasting on this day is not allowed in Islam. The Prophet ﷺ made it clear that Eid is a time for joy, not restriction.
If you have fasted during the first nine days, take this day to reflect and enjoy. Share a meal, give thanks, and join in the Eid prayer. Worship continues in the form of gratitude and giving.
🔗 When Is Eid al-Adha This Year?
Duas and Dhikr to Recite While Fasting
These words are short but carry deep meaning. They were often repeated by the Prophet ﷺ during these sacred days:
- SubhanAllah : Glory be to Allah
- Alhamdulillah: All praise is for Allah
- La ilaha illallah: There is no god but Allah
- Allahu Akbar: Allah is the Greatest
Use quiet moments to say these phrases. Recite them after prayer, while walking, or before breaking your fast. Du’a is also powerful while fasting. Ask for what your heart needs.
Multiply Your Rewards with Charity
Pair your fast with a good deed. This is the best time of the year to give. Whether it’s a food pack, a water project, or your Qurbani, every action counts.
Even a small donation made during these ten days can hold great value.
🔗 Give Your Qurbani Before Eid
How to Make the Most of Dhul Hijjah in 2025
You do not need to do everything. You just need to do something. Fasting one day, making one donation, or saying one sincere prayer can bring you closer to Allah.
Dhul Hijjah is a reminder that every moment counts. Start small. Stay sincere. Let your actions reflect your intentions.
May Allah accept your fasting, forgive your shortcomings, and increase you in goodness
