When a believer travels, every step can become an act of worship even the moment they arrive somewhere new. Yet, in our rush to explore or settle in, many of us overlook a simple sunnah that carries immense barakah: the du’a and humility of entering a city.
The Forgotten Sunnah
When the Prophet ﷺ would enter a city, he would do so with remembrance, with gratitude, and with du’a acknowledging that no journey is safe and no arrival is possible except by Allah’s permission.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“When you enter a town, then say: ‘O Allah, Lord of the seven heavens and what they shade, Lord of the seven earths and what they contain, Lord of the devils and those they mislead, Lord of the winds and what they scatter I ask You for the good of this town, and the good of its people, and the good of what is in it. And I seek refuge in You from its evil, and the evil of its people, and the evil that is in it.’”
(Narrated in Al-Hakim)
This simple du’a transforms your arrival from a worldly event into a moment of tawakkul (trust) and tawheed (oneness).
Enter with Faith, Not Just Excitement
In today’s travel culture, people often rush to capture photos of their arrival the skyline, the hotel view, the airport gate. But imagine pausing instead for a moment of stillness, whispering this du’a before anything else.
That instant changes your mindset:
You’re not entering with pride or excitement alone you’re entering under Allah’s protection, acknowledging Him as the real Guardian of the road ahead.
A Small Act with Lasting Barakah
This sunnah reminds us that every new environment has its blessings and its trials. By making du’a upon entry, you’re not only asking Allah for ease and safety you’re inviting barakah into your stay, your work, your interactions, and even your memories there.
For travellers, Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, and even those moving to new cities, this is one of the most beautiful ways to begin any journey with remembrance, humility, and hope.
Reflection:
Next time you arrive in a city whether Makkah, Madinah, or anywhere else don’t just check in at your hotel.
Check in with Allah first.
Say the du’a.
Breathe gratitude.
And walk into that city knowing that the One who brought you there will also guide you through it.
May every step of your travels be filled with safety, sincerity, and barakah.
