Just 10 days, but the best 10 days
The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah which for 2026 are expected to begin around Sunday 17 May are widely regarded as the most special and significant in the Muslim calendar.
The first week and a half of the blessed month offer abundant opportunities to act out righteous deeds, further commit to the teachings of the Qur’an, pray, fast, spend quality time with family, and of course, undertake the holy pilgrimage of Hajj, if it is personally possible.
Every Muslim will have their own unique way of celebrating and commemorating Dhul Hijjah - specifically the first 10 days - but there are certain aspects of this sacred time that we all share…
The Qur’an
Read the Holy book as often as you can during the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah, either alone or with friends and family. This observance is so important throughout the year, but even more significant during this blessed time period. Even if you can only manage a few short passages each time, the commitment to the Qur’an little and often further strengthens the action.
Nawaafil Prayers
Increase worship and praise to Allah (SWT) with extra prayers throughout the day and night. By spending more time in prayer during the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah, we display our observance of good deeds and present the higher understanding of this special and significant time of year. The same can be said for adherence to Dhikr; by regularly reciting Tahmeed, Tahleel, and Tasbeeh, and Istighfaar; seeking righteous forgiveness for any wrongdoings.
Fasting
Some Muslims choose to fast during the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah; as fasting is often considered one of the highest displays of Sunnah within the Muslim community. Likewise, cutting hair or nails is discouraged, up until the sacrificial slaughter of the animal at Eid al Adha. This is particularly important for the person making a donation of Qurbani on behalf of a family or household.
act of giving
Charitable doings and acts of kindness are incredibly important throughout the year, but during Dhul Hijjah, they are even more significance. And while Qurbani* is considered the most important way to do this, Muslims are encouraged to give to non-profit organisation as much as possible throughout the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah, and beyond.
*Qurbani takes place on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah (the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar). Any adult that meets the requirements of Nisab - and therefore pays Zakat - is eligible to pay Qurbani. There is no set amount to pay though, and it is not calculated based on wealth; instead donors will be offered an opportunity to give either part or full Qurbani, based on the price of the cow, sheep or goat being offered.
Qurbani reminds us of the sacrifice Prophet Ibrahim (AS) made to Allah (SWT) in offering his son Ismail. Personal sacrifice is an important part of Islam during times of holy significance and throughout the year. Sacrifice keeps men and women humble and grounded, while showing others less fortunate that there is love and hope in the Muslim community.