A dua (plural: duas or du'as) is a personal supplication or prayer to Allah. Unlike salah, which has a set structure, dua is a freeform conversation with your Creator. You can make dua at any time, in any language, about anything.
That said, there are many beautiful duas taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for specific moments in the day. Learning even a few of these can transform your daily routine into an act of worship.
When Waking Up
"Alhamdulillahil-ladhi ahyana ba'da ma amatana wa ilayhin-nushur"
All praise is for Allah, who gave us life after having taken it from us, and unto Him is the resurrection.
Starting your day with gratitude sets the tone for everything that follows.
Before Eating
"Bismillah"
In the name of Allah.
If you forget to say it at the start, you can say:
"Bismillahi fi awwalihi wa akhirihi"
In the name of Allah, at the beginning and at the end.
After Eating
"Alhamdulillahil-ladhi at'amana wa saqana wa ja'alana muslimeen"
All praise is for Allah, who fed us and gave us drink, and made us Muslims.
When Leaving Home
"Bismillah, tawakkaltu 'alallah, wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa billah"
In the name of Allah, I place my trust in Allah, and there is no power or strength except with Allah.
When Entering Home
"Bismillahi walajnaa, wa bismillahi kharajnaa, wa 'alallahi rabbina tawakkalnaa"
In the name of Allah we enter, and in the name of Allah we leave, and upon our Lord we place our trust.
Before Sleeping
"Bismika Allahumma amutu wa ahya"
In Your name, O Allah, I die and I live.
You can also recite:
- Ayat al-Kursi (Quran 2:255) for protection
- The last three surahs of the Quran (Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, An-Nas)
When in Difficulty
"Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un"
Indeed, to Allah we belong and to Him we shall return.
This is said when facing any hardship or loss. It is a reminder that everything is temporary and belongs to Allah.
A General Dua for Guidance
"Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina 'adhaban-nar"
Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.
This is one of the most beloved and frequently recited duas from the Quran (2:201).
When Feeling Anxious or Overwhelmed
"Hasbiyallahu la ilaha illa huwa, 'alayhi tawakkaltu wa huwa Rabbul 'Arshil 'Adheem"
Allah is sufficient for me. There is no god but Him. I have placed my trust in Him, and He is the Lord of the Mighty Throne.
The Prophet ﷺ said that whoever says this seven times in the morning and evening, Allah will suffice them in whatever concerns them.
Tips for Building a Dua Habit
- Start with just one or two — pick the ones that fit naturally into your routine (like before eating or sleeping).
- Write them on sticky notes — place them where you'll see them: by your bed, on the fridge, on your mirror.
- Use any language — while learning the Arabic is rewarding, you can always make dua in English or your native language. Allah understands all languages.
- Be consistent — even small, regular duas are more beloved to Allah than occasional lengthy ones.
- Make dua with sincerity — speak from the heart. There is no wrong way to talk to Allah.
Dua is one of the most powerful tools a Muslim has. It is your direct line to the Creator of the heavens and the earth — and He is always listening.