Before a journey, the heart longs for safety, guidance, and blessings. In the video by Junaid Hussain, we’re reminded of a beautiful, authentic duʿāʾ the Prophet ﷺ used to recite when setting out—something many travellers today have never learned, even though they travel every day.
This supplication is narrated by Ibn Umar (RA) and recorded in Sahih Muslim (1342) and Riyad as-Salihin (972)—graded Sahih (authentic). The duʿāʾ begins with words rooted in the Qur’an (Surah Az-Zukhruf 43:13–14), praising Allah for what has been made subservient for us—and concluding with sincere requests for goodness, protection, and a safe return.
When the Prophet ﷺ would set out: the duʿāʾ of travel
According to the narration highlighted in the video, when the Messenger of Allah ﷺ would mount his camel to depart, he would first say “Allahu Akbar” three times. Then he would recite the travelling supplication.
The core Qur’anic praise
The duʿāʾ begins with an elegant Qur’anic statement of recognition and gratitude:
Subhanal-ladhi sakhkhara lana hadha, wa ma kunna lahu muqrinin, wa inna ila Rabbina lamunqalibun
Glory to the One who has subjected this to us, for we could never have done it ourselves, and indeed to our Lord we will return.
Supplementary requests: barakah, taqwa, and protection
After the opening praise, the Prophet ﷺ supplicated to Allah for righteousness and taqwa, and for good actions that please Him. The full duʿāʾ included in the video transcript is as follows:
Allahumma inni as’aluka fi safari hadha al-bar wa at-taqwa wa minal-‘amali ma tardo
Allahumma hawn ‘alayna safaruna hadha wa tawi ‘anna ba‘dah
Allahumma anta as-sahibu fi as-safar wa al-khalifu fil-ahl
Allahumma inni a‘udhu bika min wa‘thā’i as-safar wa ka‘ābati as-manẓar wa su’ il-munqalab fi al-mali wal-ahl
Allahumma salli ‘ala Muhammad wa ‘ala āli Muhammad wa ‘ala aṣḥābihi ajma‘īn
What this duʿāʾ is asking for
- Barakah and goodness in the journey, asking Allah for “al-bar” (righteousness/goodness).
- Taqwa, strengthening God-consciousness while travelling.
- Action that pleases Allah, not only safe travel but spiritually upright travel.
- Ease in the journey and the request to “fold away” distance.
- Allah’s companionship during travel and His protection for family at home.
- Refuge from hardship and from unpleasant outcomes in both wealth and family.
How to use this duʿāʾ before your next trip
While the narration mentions mounting a camel, the meaning is timeless for modern travellers too: before departure, pause and begin with the duʿāʾ that places your journey in Allah’s care.
- Prepare your intention: before leaving, remind yourself that travel is not only movement—it’s time with Allah.
- Recite “Allahu Akbar” three times, as mentioned in the video narration.
- Say the opening Qur’anic praise: Subhanal-ladhi sakhkhara lana…
- Ask Allah for barakah, taqwa, and righteous actions, then for ease and protection as in the duʿāʾ.
- Make it personal: after recitation, take a moment to reflect—may your journey be guided, safe, and beneficial.
Why this duʿāʾ resonates for travellers
The video’s reminder is powerful: many people travel daily, yet very few know the authentic supplication taught by the Prophet ﷺ before setting out. This duʿāʾ beautifully balances worldly concern (ease, safety, protection) with spiritual aspiration (righteousness, taqwa, and pleasing Allah). It’s not merely a ritual—it’s a complete mindset for travel.
Plan your journey with barakah
If you’re dreaming of a meaningful getaway—whether for pilgrimage, visiting family, or discovering new places—start with remembrance. Let your departure be a moment of faith and gratitude, asking Allah to be your companion on the road and your protector at home.
May Allah accept the duʿāʾ, grant ease, protect travellers, and return us to what pleases Him.