Before we set upon the road,
A simple prayer, our hearts’ abode,
With every step and mile to go,
In Allah’s care, our faith will grow.
Introduction to Travelling Duas
Before we leave for our trip, we always say a special dua for travelling to ask for Allah’s protection. Traveling duas, or prayers, are deeply rooted in Islamic tradition and are seen as essential for ensuring a safe and blessed journey. In the context of traveling, reciting duas can help travelers feel more secure and grounded, promoting a positive travel experience.
The Quran also encourages Muslims to remember Allah during their travels.
“That you may settle yourselves upon their backs and
Surah Az-Zukhruf (43:13-14)
then remember the favor of your Lord
when you have settled upon them and say,
‘Exalted is He who has subjected this to us,
and we could not have [otherwise] subdued it.
And indeed we, to our Lord, will [surely] return.”
Authentic Duas for Safe Travel
Scientific research supports the psychological benefits of reciting structured prayers, including reduced stress and enhanced emotional well-being.
Dua for travelling, our shield of light,
Guides us safely, day and night,
With Allah’s grace, we journey far,
His blessings with us, wherever we are.
Dua Before Starting the Journey
Reciting a dua before starting the journey is a practice that aligns with modern psychological insights on the benefits of pre-travel rituals. My mom taught me the dua for travelling, and we recite it together before every journey.
Arabic Text:
اللّهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللّهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللّهُ أَكْبَرُ، سُبْحَانَ الَّذِي سَخَّرَ لَنَا هَذَا وَمَا كُنَّا لَهُ مُقْرِنِينَ وَإِنَّا إِلَى رَبِّنَا لَمُنْقَلِبُونِ
Transliteration:
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. Subhaanal-ladhi sakh-khara lanaa haadha wa maa kunnaa lahu muqrineena wa innaa ilaa Rabbinaa lamunqaliboon.
Translation and Meaning:
Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest. Glory be to Him Who has subjected this to us, and we could never have it by our efforts. And to our Lord, surely, we are returning.
Dua During the Journey
Reciting a dua during the journey aligns with modern insights on the benefits of periodic mindfulness practices. The dua recited during travel seeks continuous divine guidance and protection, ensuring a safe and spiritually enriching journey.
Arabic Text:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّا نَسْأَلُكَ فِي سَفَرِنَا هَذَا الْبِرَّ وَالتَّقْوَى، وَمِنَ الْعَمَلِ مَا تَرْضَى، اللَّهُمَّ هَوِّنْ عَلَيْنَا سَفَرَنَا هَذَا وَاطْوِ عَنَّا بُعْدَهُ، اللَّهُمَّ أَنْتَ الصَّاحِبُ فِي السَّفَرِ، وَالْخَلِيفَةُ فِي الْأَهْلِ، اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ وَعْثَاءِ السَّفَرِ، وَكَآبَةِ الْمَنْظَرِ، وَسُوءِ الْمُنْقَلَبِ فِي الْمَالِ وَالْأَهْل
Transliteration:
Allaahumma innaa nas-aluka fee safarinaa haadha al-birra wat-taqwaa, wa mina al-‘amali maa tardhaa. Allaahumma hawwin ‘alaynaa safaranaa haadha watwi ‘annaa bu’dahu. Allaahumma Antas-Saahibu fis-safari wal-khaleefatu fil-ahli. Allaahumma innee a’oodhu bika min wa’thaa’is-safari wa ka’aabatil-manzari wa soo’il-munqalabi fil-maali wal-ahli.
Translation and Meaning:
O Allah, we ask You in this journey of ours, righteousness and piety, and deeds that are pleasing to You. O Allah, make easy for us this journey of ours and fold up its distance for us. O Allah, You are the Companion in the journey and the Successor over the family. O Allah, I seek refuge with You from the difficulties of travel, gloomy sights, and evil turns in property and family.
Dua for Setting Out on a Journey
Duas hold a significant place in Islamic practice, serving as a means of communication with Allah. In Islam, the act of reciting duas, especially during travel, is believed to invoke divine protection and blessings, ensuring a safe and prosperous journey.
Arabic Text:
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ، تَوَكَّلْتُ عَلَى اللَّهِ، وَلاَ حَوْلَ وَلاَ قُوَّةَ إِلاَّ بِاللَّهِ
Transliteration:
Bismillah, tawakkaltu ‘ala Allah, wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa billah.
Translation:
“In the name of Allah, I place my trust in Allah, and there is no might nor power except with Allah.”
Dua for Protection While Travelling
Traveling duas are recited on various occasions, reflecting the diverse nature of journeys in modern life. Whether going on a religious pilgrimage, daily commute, or a long-distance trip, these prayers cater to different travel needs.
Arabic Text:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّا نَسْأَلُكَ فِي سَفَرِنَا هَذَا الْبِرَّ وَالتَّقْوَى، وَمِنَ الْعَمَلِ مَا تَرْضَى، اللَّهُمَّ هَوِّنْ عَلَيْنَا سَفَرَنَا هَذَا وَاطْوِ عَنَّا بُعْدَهُ، اللَّهُمَّ أَنْتَ الصَّاحِبُ فِي السَّفَرِ، وَالْخَلِيفَةُ فِي الْأَهْلِ، اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ وَعْثَاءِ السَّفَرِ، وَكَآبَةِ الْمَنْظَرِ، وَسُوءِ الْمُنْقَلَبِ فِي الْمَالِ وَالْأَهْلِ
Transliteration:
Allaahumma innaa nas-aluka fee safarinaa haadha al-birra wat-taqwaa, wa mina al-‘amali maa tardhaa. Allaahumma hawwin ‘alaynaa safaranaa haadha watwi ‘annaa bu’dahu. Allaahumma Antas-Saahibu fis-safari wal-khaleefatu fil-ahli. Allaahumma innee a’oodhu bika min wa’thaa’is-safari wa ka’aabatil-manzari wa soo’il-munqalabi fil-maali wal-ahli.
Translation:
“O Allah, we ask You in this journey of ours, righteousness and piety, and deeds that are pleasing to You. O Allah, make easy for us this journey of ours and fold up its distance for us. O Allah, You are the Companion in the journey and the Successor over the family. O Allah, I seek refuge with You from the difficulties of travel, gloomy sights, and evil turns in property and family.”
Dua When Entering a Town or City
In Islam, there are specific duas (prayers) that Muslims recite when Entering a Town or City . Here is one of the most commonly recited duas :
Arabic Text:
اللَّهُمَّ رَبَّ السَّمَوَاتِ السَّبْعِ وَمَا أَظْلَلْنَ، وَرَبَّ الْأَرَضِينَ السَّبْعِ وَمَا أَقَلَّلْنَ، وَرَبَّ الشَّيَاطِينِ وَمَا أَضْلَلْنَ، وَرَبَّ الرِّيَاحِ وَمَا ذَرَيْنَ، أَسْأَلُكَ خَيْرَ هَذِهِ الْقَرْيَةِ، وَخَيْرَ أَهْلِهَا، وَخَيْرَ مَا فِيهَا، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّهَا، وَشَرِّ أَهْلِهَا، وَشَرِّ مَا فِيهَا
Transliteration:
Allaahumma Rabba as-samawaati as-sab’i wa maa adhlaln, wa Rabba al-ardhina as-sab’i wa maa aqlaln, wa Rabba ash-shayateeni wa maa adlaln, wa Rabba ar-riyaahi wa maa dharayn, as-aluka khayra haadhihi al-qaryati, wa khayra ahlihaa, wa khayra maa feehaa, wa a’oothu bika min sharrihaa, wa sharri ahlihaa, wa sharri maa feehaa.
Translation:
“O Allah, Lord of the seven heavens and what they cover, and Lord of the seven earths and what they carry, and Lord of the devils and those whom they mislead, and Lord of the winds and what they scatter. I ask You for the good of this town, the good of its people, and the good it contains. And I seek refuge with You from its evil, the evil of its people, and the evil it contains.”
Dua for Returning from a Journey
These duas help travelers maintain a spiritual connection and seek protection and guidance from Allah during their journeys. They are a reminder of Allah’s presence and support throughout their travels.
Arabic Text:
آيِبُونَ، تَائِبُونَ، عَابِدُونَ، لِرَبِّنَا حَامِدُونَ
Transliteration:
Aayiboon, taayiboon, ‘aabidoon, li-Rabbinaa haamidoon.
Translation:
“We return, repentant, worshipping our Lord and praising Him.”
Dua Upon Reaching Destination
Arabic Text:
اللَّهُمَّ اجْعَلْنَا نَزُلًا مُبَارَكًا وَأَنْتَ خَيْرُ النَّازِلِينَ
Transliteration:
Allaahumma ij’alnaa nazulan mubarakan wa anta khayru al-naazileen.
Translation:
“O Allah, make our stay here a blessed stay, and You are the best of those who offer hospitality.”
Dua for Entering a New Place
This dua is recited when Entering a New Place like someone else’s home, some park , shopping mall , hotel etc.
Arabic Text:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ مِنْ خَيْرِ هَذِهِ الْقَرْيَةِ، وَخَيْرِ أَهْلِهَا، وَخَيْرِ مَا فِيهَا، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّهَا، وَشَرِّ أَهْلِهَا، وَشَرِّ مَا فِيهَا
Transliteration:
Allaahumma innee as-aluka min khayri haadhihi al-qaryati, wa khayri ahlihaa, wa khayri maa feehaa, wa a’oothu bika min sharrihaa, wa sharri ahlihaa, wa sharri maa feehaa.
Translation:
“O Allah, I ask You for the good of this village/town/city, the good of its people, and the good that is in it. I seek refuge with You from its evil, the evil of its people, and the evil that is in it.”
Dua for Entering a Home
These duas are recited when you are Entering your own Home.
Arabic Text:
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ وَلَجْنَا، وَبِسْمِ اللَّهِ خَرَجْنَا، وَعَلَى اللَّهِ رَبِّنَا تَوَكَّلْنَا
Transliteration:
Bismillah walajnaa, wa bismillah kharajnaa, wa ‘alaa Allaahi Rabbinaa tawakkalnaa.
Translation:
“In the name of Allah we enter, and in the name of Allah we leave, and upon our Lord we place our trust.”
General Dua for Safety and Well-being
This dua is recited to seek His blessings during the travel for Safety and Well-being during the travel.
Arabic Text:
أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّاتِ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا خَلَقَ
Transliteration:
A’oodhu bikalimaatillahi al-taammaati min sharri maa khalaq.
Translation:
“I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created.”
Dua of Gratitude for Safe Arrival
These duas are recited to thank Allah for a safe journey, seek His blessings upon arrival, and ensure protection and well-being during the stay at the new destination. They reflect a continuous spiritual connection and reliance on Allah’s mercy and guidance.
Arabic Text:
الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ الَّذِي سَلَّمَنَا وَجَمَعَنَا
Transliteration:
Alhamdulillah alladhi sallamana wa jam’ana.
Translation:
“All praise is due to Allah who has kept us safe and brought us together.”
Benefits of Reciting Travelling Duas
Reciting travelling duas offers a multitude of benefits that enhance both the spiritual and practical aspects of a journey. Saying a dua for travelling helps us feel safe and calm when we’re on the road. Practically, they contribute to a heightened awareness and caution during travel, potentially reducing the risk of accidents and mishaps.
In lands unknown, and skies so wide,
We ask for Allah to be our guide,
His mercy vast, His love so deep,
In His embrace, our souls will keep.
Spiritual Benefits
The dua for travelling reminds us that Allah is with us no matter where we go. This spiritual engagement can enhance overall well-being, making the travel experience more fulfilling.
Mountains high and valleys low,
With every path we choose to go,
Dua for travelling, a heartfelt plea,
Allah’s protection, always with me.
Increased Faith
My dad says the dua for travelling to ask Allah to keep us safe from any harm during our trip. For travelers, this heightened faith can translate into greater resilience and confidence, knowing they are under Allah’s care throughout their journey.
Sense of Peace
Reciting the dua for travelling is a way to start our journey with Allah’s blessings. Spiritually, these duas invoke a feeling of divine presence and protection, which can soothe the mind and heart. For travelers, this sense of peace is invaluable, reducing stress and enhancing the overall travel experience by fostering a calm and focused mindset.
Practical Benefits
When we go on vacation, my family and I always say the dua for travelling to ask for a smooth trip. Spiritually, these duas invoke Allah’s protection against potential dangers and difficulties, contributing to a safer travel experience. By reciting these prayers, travelers can navigate their journeys with greater confidence and mindfulness.
Safety and Protection
The dua for travelling is an important prayer that makes us feel protected and guided by Allah. Travelling duas specifically seek Allah’s protection, asking for safety from accidents, harm, and any unforeseen difficulties. This spiritual safeguard aligns with psychological findings that rituals can provide comfort and reassurance, helping travelers feel more secure and protected during their journeys.
Avoiding Harm and Difficulties
Reciting travelling duas can help avoid harm and difficulties. These prayers ask for Allah’s guidance and protection against any potential threats or challenges. Learning the dua for travelling was easy, and now I say it every time we travel.
Stories and Hadiths Related to Travelling Duas
The importance of expressing gratitude and seeking Allah’s guidance and protection during travel is as follows.
Prophetic Traditions
Prophetic traditions, or Hadiths, offer a wealth of guidance on the importance of reciting travelling duas. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself recited specific prayers during his journeys, setting an example for his followers. These traditions underline the spiritual and practical benefits of seeking Allah’s protection and guidance while traveling.
Stories of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
One notable story from the life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) involves his migration from Mecca to Medina, known as the Hijra.
As the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his close companion Abu Bakr (RA) went on this journey, they were aware of the dangers they faced. The Quraysh tribe of Mecca had placed a bounty on the Prophet’s head, making it a highly risky endeavor. To ensure their safety, the Prophet (PBUH) and Abu Bakr (RA) took a less-traveled route through the desert and sought refuge in the Cave of Thawr for three days to evade their pursuers.
During this time in the cave, the Prophet (PBUH) continuously recited duas, invoking Allah’s protection. One such dua is:
Arabic Text:
اللّهُمَّ سَلِّمْنِي وَسَلِّمْ أُمَّتِي
Transliteration:
Allaahumma sallimnee wa sallim ummatee.
Translation:
“O Allah, keep me safe and keep my nation safe.”
While they were hiding, the Quraysh trackers came incredibly close to the cave entrance. Abu Bakr (RA) was filled with anxiety, fearing for their lives. However, the Prophet (PBUH) remained calm and reassured him by saying, “Do not grieve; indeed Allah is with us” (Quran 9:40). At this critical moment, the Prophet (PBUH) placed his trust in Allah and continued to recite duas for protection and guidance.
Miraculously, a spider spun a web across the entrance of the cave, and a pigeon laid eggs nearby. When the Quraysh reached the cave, they saw the web and the eggs and assumed that no one could have entered the cave without disturbing them. Thus, they left without searching inside. This divine intervention is a testament to the power of dua and the importance of placing trust in Allah during times of difficulty.
After leaving the cave, the Prophet (PBUH) and Abu Bakr (RA) continued their journey to Medina. Along the way, they encountered various tribes and individuals. One notable encounter was with Suraqah ibn Malik, who was initially intent on capturing the Prophet (PBUH) for the reward. However, after a series of miraculous events, including his horse sinking into the sand and the Prophet’s (PBUH) calm demeanor and promises of future glory, Suraqah realized the truth of Islam. He was moved by the Prophet’s (PBUH) faith and recitations of duas, eventually abandoning his pursuit and offering his protection instead.
Sahih Hadiths on Travelling Duas
Several Sahih Hadiths (authentic narrations) highlight specific travelling duas recommended by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). One such Hadith is narrated by Ibn Umar, who reported that whenever the Prophet (PBUH) mounted his camel to set out on a journey, he would say:
“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. Subhanal-ladhi sakh-khara lanaa haadha wa maa kunnaa lahu muqrineena wa innaa ilaa Rabbinaa lamunqaliboon.”
(Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest. Glory be to Him Who has subjected this to us, and we could never have it by our efforts. And to our Lord, surely, we are returning).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the practice of reciting travelling duas offers numerous spiritual and practical benefits. Scientific and spiritual insights support the positive impact of these prayers on mental clarity, emotional resilience, and travel safety. By understanding and implementing these practices, travelers can enhance their travel experiences and ensure divine protection. This article highlights the importance of teaching travelling duas to children, using engaging methods to instill a lifelong practice of faith and spirituality.
Encouragement to Implement Duas
To summarize, travelling duas provide profound spiritual and practical benefits, enhancing both mental clarity and travel safety. We never forget to say the dua for travelling, because it helps us feel connected to Allah even when we’re far from home.
Final Blessings and Prayers
O Allah, lead us with Your grace,
In every step, in every place,
With dua for travelling, we start our quest,
In Your care, we find our rest.
