The Ultimate Guide: What to Do in the First 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah

The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah are considered the most blessed days of the Islamic year, even surpassing the days of Ramadan. While millions of Muslims prepare extensively for the month of fasting, these ten days often arrive quietly, despite offering a profound opportunity for immense reward, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal. Whether you are preparing to perform Hajj or observing from home, balancing work and family, here is your comprehensive guide on what to do in the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah to maximise your blessings.

Why Are the First 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah So Important?

Before diving into what to do, it is essential to understand why we do it. The significance of these days is beautifully captured in both the Quran and the Sunnah.

Allah (SWT) swears by these specific days in Surah Al-Fajr: “By the dawn; And [by] the ten nights.” (Quran 89:1-2)

Furthermore, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasised their unparalleled greatness. According to a renowned Hadith narrated by Ibn Abbas (RA): “There are no days during which the righteous action is so pleasing to Allah than these days (i.e., the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah).” [Sunan Abi Dawud]

These days combine the absolute best forms of worship: prayer, fasting, charity, and Hajj. For young professionals, students, and busy parents, these days represent an incredible “spiritual reset” halfway through the year.

What to Do in the First 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah: 7 Acts of Worship

1. Fasting, Especially on the Day of Arafah

Fasting is highly recommended for the first nine days of this sacred month. However, if you cannot fast all nine days, making the intention to fast on the 9th day, the Day of Arafah, is paramount.

The Prophet (ﷺ) said regarding fasting on the Day of Arafah:

“It expiates the sins of the past year and the coming year.” [Sahih Muslim]

Actionable tip: Set an alarm on your phone for Suhoor and plan your daily schedule around your fast to conserve energy.

Learn more about Dhul Hijjah Fasting Rules: Which Days Should You Fast?

2. Increase Your Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah)

One of the most defining Sunnahs of these days is the constant recitation of the Takbeer. In a modern media environment where our attention is constantly pulled away, engaging in verbal Dhikr brings focus back to the Divine.

You should frequently recite:

• Tahmeed: Alhamdulillah (All praise is due to Allah)
• Tahleel: Laa ilaha illallah (There is no deity worthy of worship except Allah)
• Tasbeeh: Subhanallah (Glory be to Allah)
• Takbeer: Allahu Akbar (Allah is the greatest)

3. Read and Reflect on the Quran

Unlike Ramadan, there are no nightly Tarawih prayers in Dhul Hijjah, meaning you must proactively carve out time for the Quran.

Actionable tip: Commit to reading a specific amount each day. Whether it’s one Juz, five pages, or simply reading a few verses with their Tafsir (exegesis), the goal is consistency and reflection.

4. Give Extra Charity (Sadaqah)

Because every good deed is multiplied during the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah, charity becomes even more impactful.

If you want to ensure you don’t miss out on the reward, consider automating your daily giving. Many Islamic charities offer campaigns where you can donate a small amount daily for the first ten days, ensuring you catch the blessings of each day.

5. Prepare for the Qurban (Udhiyah)

For those who are financially able, offering a sacrifice (Qurban) is a confirmed Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and honours the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

What you need to know:

• Ensure you book your Qurban early through a trustworthy Islamic relief organisation.
• Important Sunnah: If you are offering the Qurban, it is a Sunnah to refrain from cutting your hair and nails from the 1st of Dhul Hijjah until the sacrifice is complete.

6. Make Sincere Repentance (Tawbah)

Use these days to take a step back from the noise of daily life and assess your spiritual state. Sincere repentance requires:

1. Recognising the sin.
2. Feeling remorse.
3. Making a firm resolve not to return to it.
4. Seeking Allah’s forgiveness.

7. Perform Night Prayers (Qiyam al-Layl)

Waking up in the last third of the night, even if just 15 minutes before Fajr, is a powerful way to connect with Allah. This is the time when Allah descends to the lowest heaven and asks, “Who is asking Me so I can give him? Who is begging forgiveness from Me so I can forgive him?” [Sahih Al-Bukhari]

Practical Tips for Modern Families

It can be difficult to engage with faith in today’s fast-paced environment. Here is how you can make Dhul Hijjah special for your household:

• Decorate the Home: Create a festive atmosphere to help children understand the significance of these days.
• Consume High-Quality Islamic Media: Replace evening Netflix binges with educational Islamic content. Watch documentaries about Hajj, listen to podcasts about Prophet Ibrahim, or tune into [OnePath Network’s YouTube Channel] for current affairs from an Islamic perspective.
• Community Action: Volunteer at a local mosque or community centre.

The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah are a divine gift—a time for spiritual reflection, immense forgiveness, and a revival of faith. By fasting, increasing your Dhikr, giving charity, and reconnecting with the Quran, you can elevate your status in the eyes of Allah and bring peace to your heart.

Don’t let these days pass you by. Start preparing your heart and schedule today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)