The word dua (دعاء) literally means "calling" or "invocation." In Islamic practice, it refers to the act of humbly asking Allah for anything — guidance, forgiveness, health, gratitude, or simply to express that you remember Him. Dua is one of the most personal and intimate acts of worship in Islam.

Unlike the five daily prayers (Salah), which follow a specific form and timing, dua has no rigid rules. You can make dua in your own language, at any time, in any posture. It is, in the words of the Prophet ﷺ, "the very essence of worship."

This verse is deeply comforting — Allah doesn't say "maybe" or "if you deserve it." He simply says: call upon Me, and I will respond. As you continue exploring the basics of Islam, you'll find that this direct relationship between the believer and their Creator is one of the most distinctive and beautiful aspects of the faith.

Starting and ending your day with the remembrance of Allah sets a beautiful tone for everything in between. The Prophet ﷺ taught specific supplications for morning and evening — these are known as Adhkar (أذكار), or remembrances.

Upon Waking Up

This short dua reframes your morning beautifully — every day you wake up is a gift, and this supplication acknowledges that from the very first moment.

Before Sleeping

Before closing your eyes, the Prophet ﷺ recommended saying Bismillah and reciting Ayat al-Kursi (Qur'an 2:255) for protection through the night. A simpler beginner option is:

One of the most remarkable aspects of Islamic practice is how it transforms ordinary moments into acts of worship. Every routine action — leaving home, entering the bathroom, even getting dressed — has an accompanying dua.

The phrase Innā lillāhi wa innā ilayhi rājiʿūn — often shortened to Inna lillah — is said upon news of a loss or difficulty. It is a profound acknowledgement that everything ultimately belongs to Allah.

Food is among Allah's greatest gifts, and Islamic etiquette turns every meal into a moment of gratitude. These are among the very first duas new Muslims learn — and for good reason. You say them multiple times every single day.

• Before eating: Say Bismillah — "In the name of Allah." If you forget at the start, say Bismillahi awwalahu wa akhirahu — "In the name of Allah at its beginning and its end."
• After eating: Say Alhamdulillahil-ladhi at'amanaa wa saqaanaa wa ja'alanaa muslimeen — "All praise be to Allah who fed us, gave us drink, and made us Muslims."
• When fasting: Breaking the fast during Ramadan has its own special dua — you can read more in our guide to fasting in Ramadan.
• Drinking water: Begin with Bismillah and end with Alhamdulillah — a tiny act that carries great reward.

Life brings stress, fear, and uncertainty — and Islam addresses this directly with supplications for protection, relief, and patience. These duas are especially beloved by new Muslims who are navigating significant life changes.

When Feeling Anxious or Overwhelmed

For Relief from Hardship

The Prophet ﷺ taught us to say:

• Travelling: Subhāna-lladhī sakhkhara lanā hādhā — "Glory be to Him who has subjected this for us." Said when boarding any vehicle.
• Entering a new place: Seek refuge from evil with A'udhu bikalimatillahit-tammati min sharri ma khalaq — "I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created."
• When in pain: Place your hand on the area of pain and say Bismillah three times, then recite the dua for pain taught by the Prophet ﷺ seven times.
• Seeking forgiveness: Astaghfirullah — "I seek forgiveness from Allah." This can be said at any moment and as many times as you wish.

While dua has no strict rules, there are etiquettes that help open the heart and increase the likelihood of acceptance. Here is what our tradition recommends:

• Face the Qiblah if possible — the direction of the Ka'bah in Mecca, which also happens to be the direction you face in Salah.
• Raise your hands — palms facing upward, as if receiving a gift. This is a physical expression of humility and need.
• Begin with praise of Allah and salutations on the Prophet ﷺ — say Alhamdulillah and Allāhumma ṣalli ʿalā Muḥammad before your request.
• Be specific and sincere — Allah loves when His servant asks with genuine need. Don't hesitate to pour out your heart in detail.
• Be consistent — the Prophet ﷺ said that the dua most beloved to Allah is the one made regularly, even if small.
• Don't lose hope — Allah answers in three ways: granting the request, substituting something better, or reserving the reward for the Hereafter.