UAE: Residents turn regular intermittent fasting into 9-day Dhul Hijjah devotion
Although she won’t be performing Hajj, Faryal Mustafa of Abu Shagara, Sharjah is keen on taking advantage of the spiritually uplifting days of Dhul Hijjah. She plans to fast throughout the month’s first nine days to increase her rewards.
“While Makkah is not on the list of places I will be visiting, my heart is synchronized with the purpose of these days. Fasting is what I choose to express that devotion from wherever I am,” she mentioned.
Faryal has already been practicing intermittent fasting for more than a month. Thus, as Dhul Hijijah arrived, switching to full-day fasting felt like the next logical step in her spiritual and physical journey. “Just two months have passed since Ramadan, but the spiritual energy is still there. It’s like a mini-Ramadan for me,” she said.
Faryal was inspired by the hadith (sayings of the Prophet) of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.”
The saying encourages an increase in deeds among Muslims throughout the world by fasting, praying, giving charity, or remembering Allah.
“I used to fast mainly for health benefits, but now, I am doing it for my spirit. There’s a bigger purpose behind it — it’s about getting closer to Allah,” explained Faryal.
A resident of JLT and a marketing executive at Relaince Aluminium Fabrication, Ahmad Bilal, 32, is also embracing these sacred days through fasting. “Intermittent fasting has been my thing since April. However, during Dhul Hijjah, it feels more purposeful. I wake up early for suhoor, pray, and begin the day with the right intention,” he said.
Ahmad remarked that while Hajj is an Islamic pillar and every Muslim dreams of going, not everyone has access to go every year. However, that doesn’t mean they can’t strive for closeness to Allah in other ways.
The solution, as they put it: “These fasts are a way to spiritually connect. Help me slow down, reflect, and build gratitude. It’s more than stopping food intake, it's about the nourishment of the soul,” he clarified further.
As he puts it, “The Day of Arafah is one day I especially look forward to. Massive reward for fasting that day. Reset for the heart, so to say.
Significance of the 10 days
Sheikh Ayaz, who presides over NGS and serves as Khateeb at Al Manar Islamic Centre, outlined the significance these days portray in Islam.
“Allah made a divine oath in the Quran these days. 'By the dawn. And by the ten nights.’ (Qur’an 89:1–2). There is Ijma (consensus) amongst scholars; it pertains to the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah.”
He also highlighted these days as special because they encapsulate every major form of devotion – salat (prayer), sawm (fasting), hajj, acts of charity, dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and sacrifice.
“Nowhere else in the calendar do you get this complete package of devotion,” he said.
While fasting during the entire first nine days is commendable, the ninth day of Arafah, known for its non-pilgrim significance, is a notable exception.
“Fasting on this day wipes clean the sins of the previous and the upcoming year,” said Sheikh Ayaz, citing hadith documented in Sahih Muslim.
This day of fasting serves as a unique chance for spiritual and personal reconciliation for those not on pilgrimage.
Path to inner peace, closeness to Allah
Fasting during Dhul Hijjah, like most major Islamic occasions, is observed as a recommended practice, with the option to gain added benefits through worship. Alongside the benefits, the fasting in Dhul Hijjah helps the believers feel closer to the creator.
Sheikh Ayaz further quoted that The Prophet (PBUH) said in Hadith Qudsi that “Allah said: ‘My servant does not draw near to me with anything more beloved than what I have made obligatory on him. And he continues to draw near to me with voluntary deeds…’ (Bukhari)’”
Sheikh emphasized that voluntary fasts during these sacred days are among those noble acts that enhance spiritual connection. He encouraged Muslims to remember, read the Quran, and give charity during this time. I
He said, “It’s not just about fasting. Use these days to soften your heart, help someone who is in need. Remember Allah often. All of these build your spirtual bank.”
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