سُبْحَانَ الَّذِي سَخَّرَ لَنَا هَذَا وَمَا كُنَّا لَهُ مُقْرِنِينَ وَإِنَّا إِلَىٰ رَبِّنَا لَمُنقَلِبُونَ
Glory be to Him Who has subjected this to us, and we could never have accomplished it. And indeed, to our Lord we will return.
Subhanalladhi sakhkhara lana hadha wa ma kunna lahu muqrinina. Wa inna ila Rabbina la munqalibuna.
When to Read
This dua is specifically recited when setting out on a journey, including travel to a gathering, whether it's for a wedding, conference, or any communal event. It should be said as you begin your travel, ideally when you are seated upon your mode of transport (like a car, bus, or train).
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a firm belief in Allah's power to protect you. Focus on the meaning of the words, acknowledging that all means of travel and safety are from Allah. It is traditionally recited once when starting the journey.
Virtues & Benefits
Reciting this dua acknowledges Allah's supreme power in making things subservient to us, including the means of travel. It also reminds us of our ultimate return to Him, fostering humility and reliance. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also mentioned that whoever recites this upon setting out on a journey, the Earth prays for his return, and two angels guard him.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Ibn 'Abbas that when the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) set out on a journey, he would say: 'Subhanalladhi sakhkhara lana hadha wa ma kunna lahu muqrinina. Wa inna ila Rabbina la munqalibuna.' (Glory be to Him Who has subjected this to us, and we could never have accomplished it. And indeed, to our Lord we will return.) And he would say: 'O Allah, I ask You for goodness and piety in this journey, and for deeds that are pleasing.' And he would seek refuge in Allah from the evil of this world and the evil of the hereafter. And when he returned, he would say these words and these: 'We are returning, repenting, worshipping and to our Lord we are devoted.'