Dhul Hijjah: The 10 best days

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What is Dhul Hijjah?

The month of Dhul Hijjah is one of the holiest periods of the Islamic year, SubhanAllah. A month of increased spirituality, we witness two very special events (Hajj and Eid ul Adha) – all in devotion to Allah (SWT).

Many people don’t know that the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah are better than all the other days of the year, the 10 best days with no exception. They are even better than the days of Ramadan, SubhanAllah!

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

There are no days on which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days

Hadith | Sahih al-Bukhari

After the holy month of Ramadan, you may feel you could have done more throughout the sacred month and miss the Ramadan feeling.

Well, these beloved 10 days of Dhul Hijjah offers another chance to gain immense rewards, have our sins forgiven and reach great levels of piety, Insha’Allah.

A month of increased spirituality, we witness 2 very special events – all in devotion to Allah (SWT).

Not only is this the month of Hajj, but also the blessed day of Eid al-Adha.

On this day, each and every one of us, who is able to, must offer a qurbani – just as Prophet Ibrahim (AS) did – in devotion to Allah (SWT) and to help vulnerable communities in need across the globe.

When are the 10 days of Dhul Hijjah 2024?

The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah 2024 begin on 7th June 2024*. The 9th of Dhul Hijjah (Day of Arafah) will be on 15th June 2024 and 10th Dhul Hijjah (Eid al Adha) will be on 16th June 2024, depending on the sighting of the moon*. As the Islamic calendar is based on the lunar calendar, the 10 days of Dhul Hijjah fall ten days earlier each year.

*Please note these dates are subject to change according to the sighting of the moon.

Benefits of Dhul Hijjah

The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah are often referred to as the best 10 days of the year, and a second chance after Ramadan. For those of us not performing the Hajj pilgrimage this year, this is still a great time of blessing and immense reward.

Our hearts and prayers are with those undertaking the holy pilgrimage of Hajj during these days. While many of us are unable to make the blessed journey this year, there are still many ways for us to reap the blessings of this month.

By the dawn; And [by] the ten nights.

Qur'an | 89:2

According to many scholars of the Qur’an, the days mentioned as significant enough for Allah to swear by them are the first 10 days of Dhul-Hijjah.

Whoever is not able to go to Hajj should use this blessed time to complete even more righteous deeds than usual. These can include anything such as giving charity, honouring one’s parents, upholding the ties of kinship, and enjoining what is good and forbidding what is evil.

It is also important to enhance our obligatory acts of worship by being mindful of our prayers and ensuring we pay our zakat on time.

For those of us who have not yet completed the pilgrimage of Hajj, this is an ideal time to make du’a that Allah grants us the opportunity to do so soon. Fasting and remembrance are particularly recommended.

The Prophet used to fast on the first nine days of Dhul-Hijjah and the day of Ashura, and three days each month, the first Monday of the month and two Thursdays.

Hadith | Abu Dawood, 2/462

The ten days of Dhul-Hijjah include Yawm al-Arafah (the Day of Arafah), on which Allah perfected His Religion.

Remembrance

  • Our Prophet  said: “There are no days that are greater before Allah or in which good deeds are more beloved to Him, than these ten days, so recite a great deal of tahleel, takbeer  and tahmeed during them.” (Ahmad)

    • Tahmeed: Al-hamdu Lillah (All praises be to God)

    • Tahleel: Laa ilaha ill-Allah (There is no god but Allah)

    • Tasbeeh: Subhaan-Allah (Glory be to God)

    While there are different versions, the takbeer can also be recited as follows:

    Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, laa ilaaha ill-Allah, Allahu akbar, wa Lillaah il-hamd.

    Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, there is no god but Allah; Allah is Most Great and to Allah be praise.

    The companions would go to the marketplace and recite the takbeer out loud and people would also recite after hearing them.

    Let us follow their footsteps and encourage others to recite the takbeer as well, as an act of worship and a proclamation of the greatness of Allah.

Virtues of Dhul Hijjah

There are many rewards to be gained from acts of worship during the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah. As mentioned, it’s a sunnah to fast during the first 9 days, including on the day of ‘Arafah. It’s also recommended to take time to remember Allah SWT by reading a tasbeeh and reciting takbeers. Giving to charity and performing any acts of kindness are also recommended.

Fasting in Dhul Hijjah

Muslims are taught to fast on the first 9 days of Dhul-Hijjah. As an important sunnah, Dhul Hijjah fasting  brings great rewards and forgiveness of sins. 

Fasting Dhul Hijjah is extremely beneficial to Muslims because of the blessings Allah bestows during this time. As fasting is one of the most virtuous acts of rewards, fasting Dhul Hijjah is highly recommended. 

In a Hadith Qudsi, Allah says: 

All the deeds of the son of Adam are for him, except fasting, which is for Me and I shall reward for it.

Hadith | Sahih al-Bukhari

If Muslims are unable to fast the whole 9 days of Dhul Hijjah, they should try their best to fast on the 9th day- Yawm al-Arafah (the Day of Arafah), on which Allah perfected His Religion. 

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

Fasting the day of `Arafah expiates the sins of two years: the past one and the coming one.

Hadith | Muslim

Do Muslims fast all 10 days of Dhul Hijjah?

It is recommended for Muslims to fast on the first 9 days of Dhul Hijjah, as a sunnah which brings reward and forgiveness of sins. It’s highly recommended to fast on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, which is the Day of ‘Arafah. The 10th day of Dhul Hijjah is Eid al-Adha, when fasting is haraam (prohibited).

It is reported that “The Prophet (SAW) used to fast on the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah, the day of Ashura, three days each month, the first Monday of the month and two Thursdays.” [Abu Dawood].

What to avoid in 10 days of Dhul Hijjah

According to the majority of scholars, if you are taking part in qurbani, it is recommended to refrain from cutting your nails and hair from the first day of Dhul Hijjah up until the moment the qurbani (sacrifice) has been made. 

In the Hanbali madhab (school of thought), it is considered haram (forbidden) to cut your hair and nails during this period if you’re donating qurbani.

It’s best to seek advice according to your madhab.

See more qurbani rules here.

Giving qurbani

At Islamic Relief, we work all year round to relieve food poverty and help families maintain a healthy and stable livelihood.

Every Eid al-Adha, Islamic Relief is at the forefront of distributing qurbani meat to some of the world’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged communities, in 29 countries. For many, this is the only time they will be able to eat meat in the entire year.

In 2022 alone, we distributed qurbani meat to 3.4 million people in need.

Your qurbani donation will not only bring happiness to those less fortunate than ourselves, but you’ll also enable vulnerable communities across the globe to enjoy Eid without worrying about how and what they will feed their families.

Donating zakat and sadaqah during this blessed time are just some ways you can please Allah (SWT) and increase your rewards. Your donations will allow families and entire communities to have a happy Eid al-Adha and beyond.

By giving in this blessed month, we offer crucial solidarity and hope. Dhul Hijjah is a sacred month loved by Allah.

Give to Islamic Relief and reap the rewards of the 10 best days.

  • Scholar Verified

We ensure our content is reviewed and verified by qualified scholars to provide you with the most accurate information. This webpage was last reviewed by Sheikh Saalim Al-Azhaari.

Page last reviewed: 20th May 2024.

Qurbani resources

Give qurbani 2024
Prophetic qurbani 2024
Quality Assured qurbani
What is qurbani?
Who is qurbani compulsory on?
Qurbani rules
Duas for qurbani
Qurbani meat at Islamic Relief
Qurbani rules for a family
Qurbani rules for husband and wife
Dhul Hijjah – The 10 best days
The Day of ‘Arafah
Fasting in Dhul Hijjah
Duas for Dhul Hijjah
Eid al-Adha 2024
What is Eid qurbani?
Sunnah acts for Eid al-Adha
Can I cut my hair and nails before qurbani?
Prophet Adam (AS) and the first sacrifice
Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his sacrifice
Sadaqah sacrifice
new director

Director of Network and Resource Development

Adnan joined Islamic Relief in 2004 as a regional fundraiser in the UK. He worked in multiple roles over 10 years at Islamic Relief UK, including setting up the first digital team and leading the growth of digital fundraising and engagement. Adnan also led numerous fundraising and marketing campaigns, which played a significant part in the growth of Islamic Relief UK.

Having moved to Islamic Relief Worldwide in 2014, Adnan has held different roles that have helped grow Islamic Relief’s global digital footprint into new geographic territories, supporting Islamic Relief members with their digital and marketing growth as well as developing new products and initiatives for the Islamic Relief family.

Adnan graduated in Industrial Design and Technology from Loughborough University. He has since completed an Advanced Diploma in Business Administration from Durham University and a Diploma in Digital Marketing from the Institute of Data and Marketing.

Nadeem Azhar

General Counsel

Nadeem joined Islamic Relief Worldwide in September 2022. He has worked in the charitable sector for over a decade.

He studied Modern History and Politics at Manchester University, and at the University of Law in London before qualifying as a solicitor in 2011.

Nadeem is an experienced corporate, commercial and governance lawyer, having worked with various faith-based and grant making charities as well those in health and education settings. He was a partner at a law firm in London before moving in-house where he focused on setting up and restructuring charities and social enterprises.

Most recently, Nadeem was Lead Counsel at Mind, a leading mental health charity, where he co-authored a new federation agreement, revamped legal processes, and played a major role in developing its strategic and fundraising partnerships.

Nadeem has been a charity trustee for the Seafarers Charity, as well as many grant-making bodies and theatre companies.

Adnan Hafiz

Director of Network and Resource Development

Adnan joined Islamic Relief in 2004 as a regional fundraiser in the UK. He worked in multiple roles over 10 years at Islamic Relief UK, including setting up the first digital team and leading the growth of digital fundraising and engagement. Adnan also led numerous fundraising and marketing campaigns, which played a significant part in the growth of Islamic Relief UK.

Having moved to Islamic Relief Worldwide in 2014, Adnan has held different roles that have helped grow Islamic Relief’s global digital footprint into new geographic territories, supporting Islamic Relief members with their digital and marketing growth as well as developing new products and initiatives for the Islamic Relief family.

Adnan graduated in Industrial Design and Technology from Loughborough University. He has since completed an Advanced Diploma in Business Administration from Durham University and a Diploma in Digital Marketing from the Institute of Data and Marketing.

Board of Directors
Javed Akhtar

Director of Finance

Javed Akhtar has more than a decade of experience at Islamic Relief, having worked in a similar role between 2003-2014. In that role he strove to implement wide-ranging financial and accounting processes which aided in the transparent nature in which Islamic Relief now operates.

Javed also has diverse experience across the private sector, having worked at American chemicals and pharmaceutical giant DuPont, shipping firm FedEX and technology consultancy company Accenture. In all his roles, he prioritises using the latest technologies to improve monitoring and reporting at every level. Javed’s commitment to embracing digital end-to-end technology, enhancing accountability to our stakeholders and promoting financial transparency is ensuring that we remain at the forefront of financial developments in the sector.

By training, Javed is a chartered accountant with a Master’s degree in NGO Management with Charity Accounting and Financial Management from Cass Business School.
Board of Directors
Affan Cheema  

Director of International Programmes

Affan Cheema is an experienced leader who has spent 25 years working in the international aid sector on poverty eradication in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. He has worked in fast onset emergencies, protracted crisis and development environments whilst working for Islamic Relief Worldwide and Care International. He is also a trustee of South West International Development Network (SWIDN).

Through his career Affan has held numerous roles including institutional fundraising, programme and grant management, and programme quality assurance.  Affan’s leadership has helped Islamic Relief Worldwide secure the highly coveted Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS), seen as the sector’s premier benchmark for operational excellence.

Affan completed his BA in Economics and Geography from University of London (School of Oriental and African Studies) and his MSc in Development Administration and Planning from the University of Bristol. He is PRINCE2 qualified, is a keen sportsman and recently co-edited a book entitled -Islam and International Development: Insights for working with Muslim Communities-.
Board of Directors
Dr Hossam Said

Managing Director, Humanitarian Academy for Development (HAD)

For nearly three decades Dr Hossam has provided the strategic vision to manage, lead and develop a range of international humanitarian interventions around the world.

At the start of his career, Dr Hossam served on the Board of Directors of the Egyptian Medical Syndicate, before moving to Islamic Relief Worldwide to manage the core global business activities as International Programmes Director.

During this time the organisation increased its global reach, gaining both domestic and international repute and credibility. Dr Hossam has also served on the Islamic Relief Worldwide Board of Management and Executive Committee for the past 15 years; sharing responsibility for strategic organisational development and the change management process, whilst forging strong relationships with many other charities.

Dr Hossam gained an MBA from Aston Business School in 2004 and graduated as a Medical Doctor from Cairo University in 1981.
Board of Directors
Martin Cottingham  

Director of External Relations and Advocacy

Martin Cottingham joined Islamic Relief in 2012 as IRUK Media Relations Manager, and was appointed Head of Communications in 2015 before taking up his current position as Director of External Relations and Advocacy for Islamic Relief Worldwide.

Martin has helped Islamic Relief to increase its mainstream media profile and expand its campaigning work, producing hard-hitting advocacy reports on floods in Pakistan (2011) famine in Somalia (2012) disaster risk reduction (2013) and aid to Afghanistan (2014). He has over 20 years’ experience working in media, communications and marketing roles for international development and environmental charities.

Martin graduated from the University of London with a degree in English and Drama (1982-85) then trained as a journalist with a postgraduate diploma at City University (1986-87). He has previously worked for Christian Aid as Editor of Christian Aid News and Media Relations Manager (1988-97) for Oxfam as Regional Campaigns Manager (1997-2000) and at the Soil Association as Marketing Director (2001-2006), as well as working for a wide range of organisations as a freelance writer, researcher and communications consultant.

Tufail Hussain

Director of Islamic Relief UK

Tufail Hussain has 17 years’ experience in the humanitarian and development sector, leading on marketing and fundraising campaigns for several organisations before joining Islamic Relief UK in 2016 as Deputy Director. Tufail was appointed Director of Islamic Relief UK in 2019 and in 2021 provided valuable leadership as interim CEO of Islamic Relief Worldwide.

Tufail is driven by a passion for empowering disadvantaged youth and mentors a number of young people. He also works to strengthen engagement between British Muslims and wider society. Under his leadership, Islamic Relief UK has significantly increased its income and developed successful partnerships with communities across the country. He has travelled around the world to raise awareness of major emergencies such as the Syria, Yemen and Afghanistan crises and the floods in Pakistan and Sudan.

A father to 5 daughters and a son, Tufail is also a sports enthusiast and passionate Liverpool FC supporter. Tufail has run the London Marathon twice, raising over £35,000 for humanitarian causes.

Before joining Islamic Relief he was CEO of Orphans in Need, where he oversaw a new strategy that increased income from £2 million to £9 million in 3 years and opened up new UK and international offices. Tufail is also a trustee of the Muslim Charities Forum and a Director of TIC International (Islamic Relief Worldwide’s clothes recycling and trading arm).
Waseem Ahmad

Chief Executive Officer

Waseem Ahmad joined the Islamic Relief family over 24 years ago, serving as Programme Officer in the Balochistan province of south-western Pakistan before becoming Head of Programmes in Pakistan. Waseem then moved to Oxfam and Tearfund before returning to Islamic Relief to establish our mission in Malawi. Later serving as Head of Programme Funding and Partnerships, Waseem led the response to major crises across the globe, including the East Africa drought, Pakistan earthquake and the Indian Ocean Tsunami.

Waseem then served for nearly 6 years as our Director of International Programmes, during which time the charity secured and retained the coveted Core Humanitarian Standard certification in recognition of the quality of our programming. He was appointed CEO of Islamic Relief in May 2021.

With a special interest in community mobilisation and infrastructure, Waseem received an MSc in Project Planning and Management from the University of Bradford, as well as an MSc in Economics from Arid Agriculture University in Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

Waseem has also worked for Lepra Health in Action and is a member of the International Civil Society Centre’s Board of Trustees. The father-of-3 enjoys walking and playing football, and is a keen birdwatcher.